How Stamp Duty Works in Australia

Stamp duty — officially called transfer duty — is a state government tax you pay when buying property. Each Australian state and territory sets its own rates, thresholds, and concessions, which means the same property value can attract very different duty amounts depending on where you buy.

Progressive Bracket System

Like income tax, stamp duty uses progressive brackets. You don't pay the top rate on the entire purchase price — each portion is taxed at its own marginal rate. For example, on a $750,000 property in NSW, the first $17,000 is taxed at 1.25%, the next $20,000 at 1.5%, and so on up through the brackets.

First Home Buyer Concessions

Most states offer significant stamp duty relief for first home buyers. NSW provides full exemption on properties up to $800,000. Victoria exempts purchases up to $600,000. Queensland removed the price cap entirely for new homes from May 2025. Tasmania offers the cleanest structure with full exemption up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty by State

Each state has unique rates and concessions. View detailed stamp duty guides for: NSW, Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia, Tasmania, ACT, and Northern Territory.

About This Calculator

This calculator provides estimates based on published 2025–26 rates from each state's revenue office. It covers standard residential purchases and first home buyer concessions. It does not account for foreign buyer surcharges, off-the-plan concessions, or family transfers. For your exact liability, consult a licensed conveyancer or your state's revenue office.

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Methodology & sources

This calculator uses current published rates from Australian government and regulator sources. The result is an estimate for general guidance — it does not constitute personal financial advice. For decisions about your circumstances, consult a registered financial adviser, tax agent, or other professional. See editorial standards for how DecisionLab sources and updates its calculator data.