The First Home Loan Deposit Scheme is an Australian Government initiative designed to help eligible first home buyers enter the property market sooner by significantly reducing the deposit requirement.
Updated Details
The Australian Government has extended this popular scheme, with 10,000 places available annually. For the 2024-2025 financial year, applications remain open with new spots regularly released.
How it Works
First home buyers typically need a 20% deposit to avoid Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI), which can delay homeownership by years. Through the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme, the National Housing Finance and Investment Corporation (NHFIC) guarantees up to 15% of your home loan from a participating lender, allowing you to:
Purchase with just a 5% deposit
Avoid costly LMI payments
Enter the property market years earlier
Start building equity sooner
The Breakdown
Standard First Home Purchase:
Home value: $600,000
Required 20% deposit: $120,000
LMI costs if using 5% deposit: Approximately $22,320
With the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme:
Home value: $600,000
Minimum 5% deposit needed: $30,000
LMI costs: $0
Potential savings: $22,320+
As experienced Perth building consultants, Emily Rose Homes specialises in guiding first home buyers through this scheme when building a home. Our team coordinates with reputable mortgage brokers who understand the scheme’s requirements.
Eligibility and Application
To qualify for the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme, you must:
Be an Australian citizen over 18 years old
Be a genuine first home buyer (not previously owned property)
Earn less than $125,000 annually as an individual or $200,000 as a couple (adjusted annually)
Intend to live in the property as your principal place of residence
Purchase a property under the relevant price cap for your region
Ready to take your first step toward building your dream home in Perth? Contact our building consultants today for personalised guidance on accessing the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme.
Information current as of March 2025. Terms, conditions, and eligibility criteria are subject to change. Please contact Emily Rose Homes for the most up-to-date information.