What is the HomeBuilder grant?

HomeBuilder provides eligible owner-occupiers (including first home buyers) with a grant of $25,000 to build a new home or substantially renovate an existing home.

When do I need to build my new home or commence my renovations?

Building contracts need to be signed between June 4th and December 31st 2020, with construction needing to commence within three months of the contract date.

Who can I use to build my new home or renovate my existing home?

You must use a registered builder or licenced building service ‘contractor’ (depending on the state or territory you live in) and named as a builder on the building licence or permit.

You must have an arm’s length relationship with the builder who cannot be a family member.

Can I access HomeBuilder to knock-down and rebuild my home?

Yes, providing you meet all other eligibility criteria.

What dwelling types are eligible under HomeBuilder?

Houses, townhouses, units, apartments, house and land packages and off-the-plan purchases are all eligible.

Can I access HomeBuilder to build a pool or shed on my property?

No, substantial renovations must be for improvement of the dwelling and cannot be used for property additions such as pools, tennis courts, outdoor spas and saunas, sheds or garages that are not connected to the dwelling.

Can I be an owner-builder?

No, owner-builders are ineligible.

Am I entitled to HomeBuilder if I construct a new home for investment purposes?

No.

Am I entitled to HomeBuilder if I choose to substantially renovate my investment property?

No.

Does HomeBuilder replace the existing State and Territory First Home Owner Grants & stamp duty concessions and the Commonwealth’s First Home Loan Deposit Scheme and First Home Super Saver Scheme?

No, the good news is that HomeBuilder will complement these schemes.

How do I know if I am eligible?

To access HomeBuilder, you must be an owner-occupier and meet the following criteria:

• Be a natural person (not a company or a trust);
• Be aged 18 years or older;
• Be an Australian Citizen;
• Have an income below $125,000 pa as an individual applicant based on your 2018-19 tax return or later;
• Have an income below $200,000 pa as a couple based on both 2018-19 tax returns or later;
• The construction of a new home must be for the purpose of being a principal place of residence, where the property value (of the house and land) does not exceed $750,000 OR to substantially renovate your existing home as a principal place of residence, where the renovation contract is between $150,000 and $750,000, and where the value of your existing property does not exceed $1.5 million (pre-renovation).

Why is the HomeBuilder eligibility criteria so strict?

According to the Federal Government, the eligibility price caps and income brackets are in place to manage demand and stimulate residential construction activity.

How can I access HomeBuilder?

The Australian government has advised that you will need to contact your relevant State or Territory authority for information on when and how you can apply for HomeBuilder.

Your MoneyQuest broker is also on standby to assist.

Can I appeal if my HomeBuilder application is unsuccessful?

Yes, if you are not happy with the outcome of your application, you can request the matter be referred to the relevant state or territory dispute resolution body.

More information about this will be released shortly.

What documents will I need to apply for HomeBuilder?

Applicants will at the very least be expected to supply the following:

• Proof of identity;
• A copy of the contract between the applicant and the builder that is dated and signed;
• A copy of the builder’s registration or licence;
• A copy of the applicant’s 2018-19 or later tax return; and
• Documents including council approvals, building contracts, occupation certificates and evidence of land value.

If a new or increased home loan is required, your MoneyQuest broker will also be able to assist you with compiling the documentation you need to complete your HomeBuilder application.

Is there a maximum number of people able to access the HomeBuilder scheme?

No, the good news is that HomeBuilder grants are uncapped with only the time restrictions in place.