Can I Use the First Home Owner Grant to Build? A Guide for QLD 2026

For many Queenslanders, building a brand new home is the most appealing path into property ownership. The good news is that the Queensland First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) is specifically designed to support new builds.

Whether you're planning a house and land package or building on your own block of land, the FHOG can provide a healthy sum towards making your dream home a reality. 

What Is the Queensland First Home Owner Grant?

The Queensland First Home Owner Grant is a state government initiative that provides eligible first home buyers with a cash grant towards the purchase or construction of a new home.  

It is a one-off payment separate from any federal schemes or stamp duty concessions buyers may also be entitled to. 

The FHOG only applies to new homes in Queensland, not established properties. Both house and land packages and custom builds for a new property are eligible for the FHOG.

How Much Is The First Home Owner Grant in 2026?

The First Home Owner Grant awards $30,000 for contracts signed between 20 November 2023 and 30 June 2026.

This amount was doubled from $15,000 in late 2023 in a bid to give more first home buyers the opportunity to take advantage of it. After 30 June 2026, this grant amount may revert to $15,000, depending on a review of the scheme by the Queensland Government. 

If you are considering building your first home in Queensland, you must sign a contract with a builder before 30 June 2026 to receive $30,000 from the First Home Owner Grant. Anyone entering a building contract after this date may receive a reduced FHOG amount if the Queensland Government decides to revert it.

Can I Use the FHOG to Build A New Home?

Yes, building a new home is one of the two ways to qualify for the FHOG, the other being the purchase of a newly built home.

The grant can be used for new builds under a house and land package, an off-the-plan build, or a custom build project.

For those building on vacant land, the key eligibility trigger is when construction begins rather than when the land is purchased. The foundations must be laid between 20 November 2023 and 30 June 2026 to qualify for the $30,000 grant amount.

Eligibility Requirements for the FHOG 

To be eligible for the FHOG in Queensland, you must: 

• Apply as an individual (not a company or trust) and be over 18 years of age.
• Have at least one applicant who is either an Australian citizen or a permanent resident.
• Not currently own or have previously owned residential property in Australia.
• Sign a contract for a home valued no more than $750,000 (which includes land value and any variation on the contract).
• Live in the new home within 12 months of completion as your principal place of residence, for at least six continuous months.

Applying the FHOG When Working with a Builder 

For most first home buyers, working with a home builder is the simplest way to get advice on applying for the FHOG.

When you sign a contract to build a new home, your builder can guide you through the FHOG application process as part of the overall construction process. The grant is typically paid at settlement or at a nominated stage of construction, reducing the amount you need to borrow. 

Working with an experienced new home builder also removes much of the guesswork around eligibility. A builder experienced in new home builds for first-time home buyers will be familiar with FHOG requirements and can structure your contract and build timeline to ensure the key dates are met.

Cougar Homes is an award-winning home builder in Cairns - we have designed and built high-quality homes in North Queensland for more than 20 years. Let us help you build the home of your dreams and offer tailored advice for the FHOG application process.