Buying Property in Australia as a Foreign Buyer: 2025 Guide

Overview of Foreign Buyer Rules

Foreign persons (non-residents, temporary residents, or foreign corporations) must obtain approval from the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) before purchasing residential property in Australia. Rules aim to prioritise housing for Australians while allowing investment in new dwellings.

Foreign buyer property transactions in Australia

Foreign buyers contribute to the Australian property market under strict guidelines.

Restrictions on foreign buyers purchasing established homes

Established dwellings are generally off-limits for foreign buyers.

Non-resident guide to buying property in Australia

Comprehensive planning is essential for non-resident purchasers.

What Can Foreign Buyers Purchase?

New Dwellings/Off-the-Plan: Generally approved (apartments, townhouses, house-and-land packages).
Vacant Land: For development (must build within 4 years).
Established Dwellings: Usually prohibited (exceptions for temporary residents buying one home to live in, or redevelopment).
Commercial properties have fewer restrictions.

New residential property suitable for foreign buyers

Off-the-plan and new builds are popular options for foreign purchasers.

Guide for foreigners buying property in Australia

Modern off-the-plan developments often attract international interest.

Additional Costs: Surcharges in 2025

Stamp Duty Surcharge: VIC: 8%; QLD: 7% extra on residential purchases.
Land Tax Surcharge: VIC: 4%; QLD: 2% absentee owner surcharge.
FIRB Application Fees: Start from $14,100, scaling with property value.

Stamp duty and land tax surcharges for foreign buyers

Visual overview of additional duties for foreign investors.

Surcharges add significant costs to foreign purchases.

The FIRB Approval Process

Submit online application via ATO portal before signing contract.
Pay fee and provide details (property, buyer status).
Approval typically 30 days (can be longer).
Conditions may apply (e.g., sell previous property).

FIRB review framework for residential acquisitions.

Different approval categories for foreign residential purchases.

Expert Conveyancing for Foreign Buyers

Foreign purchases involve FIRB compliance, surcharge calculations, and complex contracts. Specialist conveyancers coordinate approvals and ensure smooth settlements.

For professional fixed-fee conveyancing in Victoria and Queensland—experienced with foreign buyer applications, new dwellings, and surcharge minimisation—consider First Class Legal. They provide tailored guidance for international clients.

Successful foreign acquisitions require expert support.