Property CGT in Australia: What You Need to Know

When you sell an investment property, the capital gain is the difference between the sale price and the cost base. The cost base includes more than just the purchase price — it also covers stamp duty paid on purchase, legal and conveyancing fees, capital improvements (renovations, extensions), and selling costs (agent commission, marketing, legal).

The 50% CGT Discount

If you held the property for at least 12 months, individual owners receive a 50% discount on the capital gain. Companies do not receive this discount. Trusts can pass the discount to individual beneficiaries.

Main Residence Exemption

Your primary home is generally exempt from CGT. If you lived in the property first then rented it out, the 6-year absence rule may allow you to maintain the exemption for up to 6 years. This calculator focuses on investment properties only — if you need to calculate a partial exemption, consult a tax professional.