Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Can New Zealand citizens buy property in Australia? Absolutely! Whether you’re living in Australia or still based in New Zealand, you can invest in a home or even an investment property across the Tasman. But the process isn’t always straightforward—tax rules, stamp duty surcharges, and lending criteria can differ based on your location and visa type. In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through everything from borrowing capacity to government grants, popular locations for Kiwis, and how to avoid costly surprises.
Note: We can only assist if you are a New Zealand citizen who is LIVING and WORKING in Australia. If you are LIVING and WORKING in New Zealand, we cannot assist with finance due to restrictions with our credit license.
But we have included details below on lenders that can assist if this is your situation.
Quick Overview - New Zealand Citizen Home Loans
- Eligibility: New Zealand citizens can buy property in Australia.
- Loan Amounts:
- Up to 95% of property value if living in Australia.
- Up to 70% if living in New Zealand or elsewhere.
- Interest Rates: Vary by lender; higher rates likely if living outside Australia.
- Visa Holders: 461 Visa holders can qualify for home loans.
- Government Approval: Not required for standard residential property.
- Stamp Duty:
- Exempt from surcharge if on a Special Category Visa.
- Additional 7% for Foreign Acquirer Duty in Queensland if living outside Australia.
- First Home Owners Grant: Eligible for $15,000 grant in Queensland; conditions vary by state.
- Eligibility for Home Guarantee Scheme: As of June 21, 2024, New Zealand citizens who hold a Special Category Visa Subclass 444 (SCV) are eligible for the Home Guarantee Scheme, subject to meeting all other eligibility criteria.
- Investment Properties: Eligible to purchase; subject to specific conditions.
- Non-Resident Withholding Tax: May apply if living in New Zealand.
- Documentation Needed:
- Identification: Passport, driver’s license, or birth certificate.
- Financial Information: Bank statements, pay slips, tax returns, and proof of savings.
- Employment Details: Employment contract, recent payslips, and a letter from your employer.
- Visa Information: Visa grant notice, if applicable.
- Property Details: Contract of sale, details of the property, and valuation reports.
- Other Documents: Credit report, rental statements (if applicable), and a list of assets and liabilities.
- Next Steps: Contact a mortgage broker for personalised assistance and to navigate the process effectively.
Can A New Zealander Buy Property In Australia?
If you are a New Zealand citizen, you can buy townhouses, detached houses, units, vacant land and even commercial properties in Australia. However, the property must be in Australia. We are not able to help you buy a house in New Zealand from Australia.
How much can I borrow?
How much you are eligible to borrow depends on your personal situation and each individual lender’s policies. However, as a general rule, you can borrow:
- Up to 95% of the value if you are living in Australia as a New Zealand citizen. If you are a non-New Zealand citizen living in Australia on a 461 visa (New Zealand Citizen Family Relationship Visa), you will be eligible to borrow up to 95% of the property value and may be eligible for the first homeowners grant.
- Up to 70% of the property value if you are living in New Zealand. Some lenders, such as ANZ Bank and Westpac, will allow you to borrow up to 70% of the property value if you are not living in Australia. But if you are buying in Queensland, you will need to pay the Foreign Acquirer Stamp duty, which will add 7% to the standard stamp duty costs. On a $500,000 purchase, this would mean a total of $52,461 in stamp duty payable (on top of your 30% deposit). As mentioned above, we cannot assist you with arranging finance if you are working and living in New Zealand.
- Up to 70% of the property value if you are a New Zealand citizen living elsewhere (i.e., not in Australia or New Zealand). However, as a non-resident in Australia, you may need to pay a higher rate of stamp duty. In Queensland, this is an additional 7% of the property’s value. As mentioned above, we cannot assist you with arranging finance if you are working and living abroad.
Case Study: NZ Citizen Buys Brisbane Home With Just 5% Deposit
Liam, a New Zealand citizen living and working in Brisbane, wanted to buy his first home close to family and work.
He found a $750,000 house in a great location. Thanks to his Special Category Visa (SCV Subclass 444), he was treated as a permanent resident and didn’t need FIRB approval.
With the help of a mortgage broker, Liam secured a home loan with just a 5% deposit ($37,500). Even better, he was eligible for the $30,000 Queensland First Home Owner Grant, reducing the out-of-pocket cost significantly.
His total upfront cash needed dropped to just $7,500 after the grant, and he avoided foreign buyer fees completely.
Outcome: Liam moved into his home debt-free, with government help and a low deposit.
What Will My Interest Rates As A New Zealand Citizen Be Like?
If you are not an Australian citizen but are living in Australia, your interest rates may vary depending on each lender’s policies, as some lenders charge higher rates for foreigners. If you are living outside of Australia, you have a higher chance of paying higher interest rates. This is why it is important to work with a mortgage broker who can determine which lender suits your loan needs best and can provide you with the best interest rates. For example, we can get you the same interest rates even if you are lending up to 95% of the property value. Also, if you’re applying with a low deposit, there may be a suitable solution for you.
Do Special Category Visa Subclass 444 Holders Qualify For A Home Loan In Australia?
Yes, holders of the Special Category Visa (Subclass 444) do qualify for home loans in Australia. This visa grants New Zealand citizens the right to live and work indefinitely in Australia, and lenders generally treat SCV holders similarly to Australian permanent residents when assessing loan applications.
Here are key points to know:
- Loan eligibility: SCV 44 holders can apply for home loans with most major lenders.
- Loan-to-Value Ratio (LVR): Many lenders allow up to 95% LVR (meaning only a 5% deposit may be needed), depending on your financial situation.
- Government schemes: SCV holders are eligible for schemes like the First Home Owner Grant and the Home Guarantee Scheme, subject to meeting other criteria.
- No FIRB approval: Visa subclass 444 holders buying residential property generally do not need Foreign Investment Review Board approval.
- Interest rates: Interest rates for 444 holders are usually comparable to those offered to Australian citizens, but can vary by lender.
Working with a mortgage broker can help SCV holders navigate lender policies and find the best loan option.
What If I'm A New Zealand Citizen Wanting To Buy In Australia, But I Am Still Living In NZ?
If you’re a New Zealand citizen living in New Zealand and want to buy property in Australia, here’s what you need to know:
Can You Buy Property in Australia from New Zealand?
Yes, you can. New Zealand citizens are allowed to buy property in Australia—even if they are not currently living there. However, your situation will be treated differently compared to someone already residing in Australia.
FIRB Approval: Do You Need It?
- If you’re buying residential property and you’re not living in Australia, you may need Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) approval.
- Exemption: If you’re planning to move to Australia and live in the property, you may qualify for an exemption. FIRB typically exempts New Zealand citizens intending to live in the property as their main residence.
Always check the most recent FIRB guidelines or consult a mortgage broker for tailored advice.
Can You Get a Home Loan If You Are Not Living In Australia?
Yes, but with limitations:
- Loan-to-Value Ratio (LVR): Most lenders offer up to 70% of the property’s value if you’re not residing in Australia.
- If you plan to move and live in the home, you may qualify for up to 95% LVR with some lenders.
- Interest rates may be higher, and fewer lenders may be available compared to residents.
If you live in Singapore, Hong Kong, the UK, or the UAE, the process can be a little harder as these countries are not seen as having any ties to Australia. Some lenders will still allow you to borrow, but it is really on a case-by-case basis.
Stamp Duty and Taxes
- You may be classified as a foreign buyer if you’re not residing in Australia, even if you’re a New Zealand citizen.
- Some states (like Queensland) impose a Foreign Acquirer Duty (an extra 7%) if you’re living outside Australia at the time of purchase.
Are You Eligible for Government Grants?
Probably not if you’re still living in New Zealand:
Most First Home Owner Grants (FHOG) and Home Guarantee Scheme programs require you to be living in Australia and to move into the property as your primary residence.
You’ll typically only qualify once you’ve moved and become an Australian resident under a Special Category Visa (subclass 444).
Banks & Lenders with NZ‑Australia Coverage
HSBC Bank Australia – A subsidiary of an international banking group with operations in both Australia and New Zealand. Their global presence makes them potentially suitable for clients seeking cross‑border lending or deposit transfer options.
Major Trans‑Tasman Banks (ANZ, Westpac, CBA/ASB) – These banks have a presence in both NZ and Australia. Some borrowers report limited availability of lending to NZ-based clients without an Australian income history.
What You'll Need
Here’s what lenders usually require if you’re applying from New Zealand:
- Passport and ID
- Income proof (payslips, tax returns, bank statements)
- Visa or migration intention (if applicable)
- Property contract
- Credit history (NZ or international)
Summary Table
Factor | Living in NZ | Planning to Move to Australia |
FIRB Approval | Likely required | Often exempt |
Max LVR | ~70% | Up to 95% |
FHOG | Not eligible | Eligible once living in AU |
Stamp Duty Surcharge | May apply | Often exempt |
Interest Rates | May be higher | Standard rates |
As mentioned above, due to limitations with our credit license, we cannot assist with finance if you are living and working in NZ. Some banks, like ANZ and Westpac, based in Australia, can consider your situation on a case-by-case basis, but you will need to discuss it with them directly.
Read More: Calculate how much stamp duty you will need to pay.
Case Study: NZ Non-Resident Pays $35,000 Extra in Foreign Buyer Duty
Sophie, a New Zealander living in Auckland, wanted to invest in Queensland property.
She found a neat $500,000 townhouse on the Gold Coast. But as a non-resident living outside Australia, she didn’t qualify for resident benefits.
To proceed, she had to apply for FIRB approval and pay Foreign Acquirer Duty (FAD)—a 7% surcharge on the purchase price.
That meant an additional $35,000 in upfront costs, on top of stamp duty and legal fees.
Outcome: While Sophie secured the property, her non-resident status significantly increased the cost of buying.
Do I Need Approval From The Government?
If you are a New Zealand citizen looking to buy a standard residential property, you do not need the approval of the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB). Your home-buying process is exactly the same as that of an Australian citizen buying a property in Australia. However, if you are looking to buy commercial property, you may need to get FIRB approval.
Speak to our team of experts about this for more information.
Why Are So Many People Investing In Australia Now?
Here’s a comprehensive look at why so many Kiwis are investing in Australian property right now:
- Strong Demand, Weak Supply – Australia faces chronic housing undersupply. Regulations, rising construction costs, labour shortages, and approval delays mean demand exceeds available homes — creating what experts call “intrinsic equity” in established properties.
- Population Growth & Immigration Surge – High levels of immigration—especially skilled workers and international students—fuel housing demand in major cities. Rental vacancy rates are at record lows (~0.8 %), and replenishment can’t keep pace.
- Infrastructure Investment Driving Growth – Massive public projects—like the Sunshine Coast Rail, Western Sydney Airport, and Inland Rail—are improving regional access and property attractiveness.
- Economic Resilience & Rate Trajectory- A stable economy and a one-off drop in interest rates (from 4.35% to ~3.85%) have increased buyer confidence. Forecasts anticipate further cuts into 2026.
- Rising Rental Yields & Tight Vacancy – With tight rental markets and low vacancies, investors benefit from stronger rental income and improved cash flow.
- Tax Incentives & Investor-Supportive Policies – Attractive policies include negative gearing, 50% capital gains discount, and multiple land tax/ stamp duty concessions. New land‑tax schemes are easing costs for investors in NSW and Victoria.
- Foreign and Institutional Buyer Return – Foreign investors—particularly from China and Japan—are re-entering the market as global uncertainty rises, attracted by Australia’s legal protections and currency stability.
- Shift to Regional & Green-Friendly Investment – Investors are looking beyond capital cities to regional towns with infrastructure and affordability. There’s also growing demand for energy-efficient, sustainable housing.
- Why Buy In Australia Now? With interest rates easing, policymakers championing housing supply, and migration returning strongly, 2025 presents a strategic window for investors.
Can I Buy An Investment Property?
The good news is yes! As a New Zealand citizen buying in Australia, you are eligible to use your loan for any kind of residential housing, whether you want to live in it or buy it as an investment property. Commercial loans depend on the circumstances, so it’s best to seek advice from a mortgage broker (us!) about your personal situation.
Top Regions For NZ Citizens Buying Property In Australia
Buying property in Australia as a NZ citizen? These regions are top picks for lifestyle and long-term value.
With relaxed visa requirements and strong ties between New Zealand and Australia, more Kiwis are moving across the ditch to buy property.
Brisbane and Southeast Queensland
Warm weather, affordable homes, and strong infrastructure make Brisbane a favourite. Plus, the $15,000 First Home Owner Grant still applies.
Property prices here are still lower than in Sydney or Melbourne. Suburbs like Logan and Redbank Plains offer great value for first-home buyers
Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast
These lifestyle hubs are ideal for families and remote workers. Rental yields are strong and growth is consistent. You’ll enjoy beachside living with easy access to Brisbane. Many new estates here also qualify for government grants.
Melbourne
Great for education, careers, and investment. It’s more expensive than QLD but still accessible, especially in the outer suburbs. Places like Craigieburn or Tarneit offer better affordability. Melbourne’s strong population growth supports long-term property value.
Regional NSW and Victoria
If you’re priced out of the cities, regional areas offer cheaper homes and may still qualify for grants and schemes. Regional VIC buyers may receive up to $20,000 FHOG. Plus, remote work has made regional living more viable than ever.
Read more: Property market research in Australia
Do I Have To Pay Stamp Duty?
If you are on a Special Category Visa (subclass 444) visa, you will be exempt from having to pay stamp duty surcharge, which is normally required for New South Wales (NSW), Victoria (VIC), Queensland (QLD), Western Australia (WA), South Australia (SA), the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) and Tasmania (TAS).
However, you’ll need to be aware that in New South Wales, you’ll need to be in the country for at least 200 days to avoid this fee. You’re also required to be in the country at the time of settlement and contract signing to be eligible to avoid the stamp duty charge. The only state that you can remain outside of Australia at the time of settlement is the Northern Territory.
Non-Resident Withholding Tax
If you live in New Zealand, you may be subject to Non-Residence Withholding Tax. The tax, in summary, is as follows…. If you were given a normal interest rate of 4.00 %, you’d effectively be paying 4.40% due to the tax. So, in certain circumstances, it’s best to make a purchase with a small deposit and refinance to find a lender that meets your criteria to avoid paying the additional tax.
Non-Resident Withholding Tax is a complex situation that we recommend you speak with your accountant about. You’ll need to ensure you meet the lending criteria; otherwise, you may be forced to pay the tax.
Can New Zealand Citizens Get The First Home Owners Grant In Australia
Yes, New Zealand citizens can qualify for the First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) in Australia, provided they meet specific eligibility criteria. This grant is available to both Australian citizens and permanent residents, including New Zealand citizens who hold a Special Category Visa (SCV Subclass 444) and are living in Australia.
FHOG Eligibility Criteria for New Zealand Citizens
To be eligible for the FHOG, applicants must:
- Be a first-time home buyer: Neither you nor your spouse or partner should have owned or occupied a residential property in Australia before 1 July 2000, or owned and occupied a residential property on or after 1 July 2000 for a continuous period of at least six months.
- Be at least 18 years old: All applicants must be of legal age.
- Use the property as your primary place of residence: You must live in the home for at least six continuous months within 12 months of settlement or completion.
- Meet the property value cap: The value of the new home must be under the state-specific cap, which varies by location. For example, in Queensland, the cap is $750,000 according to the Queensland Revenue Office.
- Not have received the FHOG previously: You must not have received the grant in any other state or territory in Australia.
FHOG Grant Amounts by State
Each state offers different grant amounts and conditions, so it’s important to understand what’s available where you plan to buy.
Queensland
- $30,000 for contracts signed between 20 November 2023 and 30 June 2026.
- $15,000 for contracts signed before 20 November 2023.
- $30,000 for owner-builders where foundations are laid between 20 November 2023 and 30 June 2026.
Note: The grant amount is separate from other schemes like the Home Guarantee Scheme.
New South Wales
- $10,000 for new homes valued at no more than $600,000.
- $10,000 for new homes valued between $600,000 and $750,000 under a comprehensive building contract.
Applicants must move into the property within 12 months from settlement and live there for at least 12 continuous months.
Victoria
- $10,000 for new homes valued under $750,000.
- $20,000 for new homes in regional areas valued under $750,000.
At least one applicant must occupy the home as their principal place of residence for at least 12 months, commencing within 12 months of settlement or completion of construction.
South Australia
- $15,000 for new homes, with no property price cap for contracts entered into after 6 June 2024.
Applicants must meet other eligibility criteria, including residency requirements.
Required Documentation For Kiwis
When applying for the FHOG, New Zealand citizens will need to provide:
- Proof of identity: Current passport or movement record.
- Proof of residency: Evidence that you are living in Australia, such as a movement record from the Department of Home Affairs.
- Property details: Contract of sale, building contract, or other relevant documents.
- Previous property ownership: Information regarding any previous property ownership or occupation in Australia.
Are New Zealand Citizens Eligible For The First Home Guarantee?
New Zealand citizens holding a Special Category Visa (Subclass 444) are eligible to apply for the First Home Guarantee (and similar schemes like the Family Home Guarantee or Regional First Home Buyer Guarantee), provided they meet all standard criteria. These include never having owned property in Australia, income caps, and being an Australian permanent resident for tax purposes.
Key Requirements for Eligibility
- You must hold a Subclass 444 (SCV) and be living in Australia.
- You need to satisfy all program rules: income thresholds, LVR limits, and first-time homebuyer status.
- Applications open in defined windows (e.g. for FY25, from 1 July 2024 to 31 August 2024).
- Acceptance into the scheme isn’t guaranteed until you receive a Guarantee Certificate, usually after your Notice of Assessment for the tax year ending 30 June.
How This Compares to Other Buyer Categories
Category | Eligible for First Home Guarantee? | Notes |
NZ citizen on SCV (Sub 444) living in Australia | Yes | Treated similarly to permanent resident |
NZ citizen living in NZ or overseas | No | Not considered resident for the scheme |
Important Notes
- You must lodge your scheme application before settlement.
- All document requirements must be fully met, including proof of visa status and tax residency.
- If you plan to move to Australia soon, your home loan adviser can help time your application for SCV eligibility.
Read more: First Home Guarantee Scheme
Can I Use Equity From My NZ Property To Buy A Property in Australia?
Yes, you can use equity from your New Zealand property to help buy a property in Australia — but there are some important details to understand.
How Equity Works
If you own a property in New Zealand and it has gained value over time, the difference between the current value and what you still owe is called equity. You may be able to tap into this equity through a cash-out refinance or line of credit with your NZ lender.
You can then use those released funds as part or all of your deposit for an Australian property.
What Lenders Consider
- Location of Equity: Australian banks won’t accept NZ property as security for a loan. You’ll need to access the equity through a New Zealand bank or lender and bring the cash across as liquid funds.
- Currency Exchange: You’ll typically need to convert NZD to AUD, which means exchange rate fluctuations can affect how much you have to spend.
- Deposit Size: If you bring in the equity as a cash deposit, some Australian lenders may view you as a non-genuine saver — unless you’ve held the funds for at least 3 months. However, mortgage brokers can help you structure this correctly.
- Residency Status: If you’re living outside Australia, expect stricter lending criteria — including lower maximum loan-to-value ratios (LVRs) (e.g. 70%) and possibly higher interest rates.
Work with both a New Zealand lender to access your equity and an Australian mortgage broker to ensure the funds are accepted as a valid deposit.
Can I Buy A Previously Owned Property?
Yes! Normally, foreign citizens are only eligible to purchase new properties in order to comply with Australian legislation. But if you are a New Zealand citizen, you can buy as though you are an Australian citizen — meaning you can buy new or existing properties.
Why Do Kiwis Buying In Australia Have Certain Rules?
As always, it depends on the bank you’re working with, so it’s important to get a good mortgage broker (like us) to help sort out your situation. Certain banks actually favour New Zealand citizens due to the joint agreements for legal, trade and residency purposes in their country. New Zealand also uses VedaScore, which Australia also uses as its chosen credit reporting system, so the whole process is a lot easier. You don’t need to be an Australian citizen to apply for a home loan in Australia.
Step-by-Step Guide To Buying Property In Australia As an NZ Citizen
Buying a home in Australia can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re moving from overseas. But for New Zealanders, the process is often simpler than expected.
Here’s what to do:
Step 1: Check your visa status: If you live in Australia on a Special Category Visa (SCV Subclass 444), you’re treated like a permanent resident.
Step 2: Speak with a mortgage broker: A good mortgage broker will guide you through your options and help you get pre-approved faster.
Step 3: Confirm government eligibility: Can a NZ citizen buy a house in Australia? Yes—no FIRB approval is needed if you live in Australia on an SCV.
Step 4: Start your property search: Whether you’re buying a home to live in or an investment, you can buy new or existing property.
Step 5: Organise conveyancing and legal checks: Once you find a property, a solicitor or conveyancer will help review contracts and protect your interests.
Step 6: Settle and move in: After approval and contracts are signed, settlement typically takes 30–90 days. Then, the property is all yours!
FAQs For NZ Citizens Buying Property In Australia
Can NZ citizens buy a house in Australia?
Yes! If you’re a New Zealand citizen living in Australia on a Special Category Visa (SCV Subclass 444), you can buy property without needing FIRB approval.
Can New Zealand permanent residents buy property in Australia?
If you’re a New Zealand permanent resident not living in Australia, you’ll usually need FIRB approval and may have to pay foreign buyer duties.
Do NZ citizens get home loan benefits in Australia?
Absolutely. Most NZ citizens living in Australia can access first home buyer grants, low-deposit loans, and standard lender products, just like Australian citizens.
Can NZ citizens apply for the First Home Owner Grant?
Yes—if you’re buying a new home and meet eligibility criteria. In Queensland, for example, grants can be up to $30,000.
Are NZ buyers considered foreign investors in Australia?
Only if they’re not living in Australia, NZ citizens residing in Australia are generally treated as local buyers for tax and lending purposes.
Can I use my KiwiSaver to buy a house in Australia?
KiwiSaver funds are generally intended for purchasing property in New Zealand. You cannot directly use KiwiSaver to buy property in Australia.
How long do you have to live in Australia before you can buy a house?
There’s no minimum residency period to buy property. However, eligibility for certain grants or stamp duty exemptions may require living in Australia for a set time.
Can New Zealand citizens get the First Home Owners Grant in Australia?
Yes, New Zealand citizens on a Special Category Visa living in Australia can qualify for the First Home Owners Grant, subject to state-specific rules.
Can I get a home loan in New Zealand if I live in Australia?
You can apply for a home loan in New Zealand regardless of where you live. But many NZ lenders will consider your Australian residency status and income.
What is stamp duty in Australia?
Stamp duty is a state government tax on property purchases. Rates vary by state and may include surcharges for foreign buyers, but NZ citizens living in Australia often get exemptions.
Next Steps And Buying A Home In Australia
Ready to buy a home in Australia but don’t know where to start? Our team of home loan experts at Hunter Galloway is here to help you buy a home in Australia. Unlike other mortgage brokers who are just one-person operations, we have an entire team of experts dedicated to making your home loan journey as simple as possible. Our service does not cost you anything, as we are paid by the lender when your home loan settles.
If you want to get started, please give us a call on 1300 088 065 or book a free assessment online to see how we can help.
Note: The information on this page is general and should not be considered as advice. Before you act on this information, you must seek independent legal and financial advice.
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