Queensland jumps the queue on HomeBuilder applications

Published Friday, 31 July, 2020 at 03:23 PM

Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure and Planning
The Honourable Cameron Dick

Queenslanders can now officially apply for a $25,000 grant to build or renovate their home under the HomeBuilder initiative, as the state’s construction sector continues to play a key role in Queensland’s economic recovery from COVID-19.

Treasurer and Minister for Infrastructure and Planning Cameron Dick said the range of financial incentives available for home builders and renovators would help Queensland unite and recover to support local jobs.

“Queensland will be the first state on the eastern seaboard to open applications for homebuilder, for work that’s commenced since 4 June, or work that’s waiting to commence,” Mr Dick said.

“Queenslanders who build a new home, substantially renovate their home, or purchase an off-the-plan home such as a unit in an apartment complex or new home in a new estate being developed can now apply for the $25 000 grant.

“During these challenging times our mighty construction sector has continued to employ thousands of Queenslanders, and we’re backing our tradies and suppliers to keep building our economy.

“In addition to HomeBuilder, first homeowners in Queensland can get the $15,000 Queensland First Home Owners’ Grant.

“For regional Queenslanders, our $5000 Regional Home Building Boost is providing extra support to offset the cost of construction or purchase of a new house or apartment outside the south-east corner," he said.

“This means that new first home buyers in regional Queensland can access up to $45,000 in grants to help them achieve their property dream.

“This will provide a huge hand-up to regional Queenslanders who want to secure their first home.

“Transfer duty paid in Queensland is also around $10,000 lower than the average of other Australian states, based on a house price of $500,000, while our government’s transfer duty concession will save first homebuyers up to $15,925.”

Mr Dick said the Queensland Government had committed more than $6 billion of new funding for COVID-19 support initiatives, including funds for the state’s construction industry to benefit tradies, homeowners, seniors and local communities across the state.

“Along with our Regional Home Building Boost and the First Home Owners’ Grant, we’re investing into the $100 million Works for Tradies program which is stimulating housing construction and support hundreds of jobs right across Queensland," he said.

“The $200 million Building Acceleration Fund will also enable councils, the construction sector and industry to unlock development opportunities that will generate long-term jobs.

“We’re also providing $10 million to help Queensland seniors and people with a disability upgrade their homes or undertake up to $5,000 worth of essential repairs and maintenance.

“Together, we’re backing Queenslanders to build up our construction sector and rebuild our economy.”

Visit qld.gov.au/housing/buying-owning-home to access the application form and find out more about financial support to build your home in Queensland.

ENDS

Media contact: Lesley Major 0419288 284