Understanding Help to Buy
Help to Buy is the Australian Government's shared equity scheme that launched in December 2025. The government contributes up to 40% of the purchase price for a new home, or 30% for an existing home. You need as little as a 2% deposit.
You do not pay rent on the government's share and there are no ongoing fees. When you sell the property, the government receives back their percentage share of the sale price. You can also choose to buy out the government's share over time.
Income limits apply: $90,000 for singles, $120,000 for couples. Property price caps vary by state and region. This calculator helps you see exactly how much you'd borrow and what your repayments would be under the scheme.