First home buyers in the ACT will no longer have to pay stamp duty.

From July 1st, the Territory will become the first jurisdiction to abolish stamp duty for all first home buyers.

The tax cut is part the ACT Governments 2026/27 budget, which also includes a time-limited 50% reduction in the codified Lease Variation Charge for missing middle developments, lowering overall development costs while maintaining a return to the community.

Exemptions to stamp duty will also be expanded for pensioners, eligible National Disability Insurance Scheme participants, and all home buyers who have not owned property in the last five years.

The Government is also delivering the Canberra House Pattern Book – a collection of pre-approved plans for ‘missing middle’ homes, that allows homeowners, developers and builders to access ready to build designs for $1000.

Chief Minister Andrew Barr said there has been a sustained focus on removing barriers to home ownership, and the change opens the door for more renters to become owners.

“Stamp duty has long been one of the biggest upfront hurdles to entering the housing market. From 1 July 2026, that barrier is gone for first home buyers in the ACT. We made this commitment, and this Budget delivers it in full.