From May 1, a bold new housing reform is coming into effect across Queensland—one that could finally put the dream of home ownership back on the table for many Cairns locals.
In a move designed to address the state’s housing affordability crisis and reverse declining home ownership rates, the Crisafulli Government has abolished stamp duty on new homes for eligible first home buyers. This major cost-of-living measure is part of a broader commitment to give more Queenslanders a place to call home—and Cairns stands to benefit significantly.
What This Means for First Home Buyers in Cairns
For young people and families in Cairns struggling to enter the housing market, this change means tens of thousands of dollars in savings on the upfront costs of buying or building a new home. Whether it’s a new house in the city or a land package in the surrounding region, the removal of stamp duty cuts out a major financial hurdle for many.
On average, first home buyers across Queensland will save nearly $10,000. But in certain areas, the savings are even greater—up to $39,500 in some parts of the state. For many Cairns locals, that could be the difference between continuing to rent and finally stepping into their own home.
Tackling the Housing Crisis at Its Roots
Queensland currently has the lowest home ownership rate in Australia, sitting at just 63.5%. After a decade marked by what the government calls a “Housing Crisis” under the former Labor leadership, the new laws are aimed at reversing the trend and making home ownership more attainable—especially for first-time buyers who’ve been priced out of the market.
In addition to the removal of stamp duty, the Crisafulli Government is also:
- Investing $2 billion in housing infrastructure to boost supply;
- Unlocking land to kickstart new housing developments;
- Removing restrictions that prevented first home buyers from renting out rooms to help cover mortgage costs.
These practical changes are designed to not only help buyers, but also ease the tight rental market and address record-low vacancy rates in areas like Cairns.
“A Place to Call Home” for More Queenslanders
Premier David Crisafulli describes the reform as a direct step toward restoring the Great Australian Dream of home ownership.
“Stamp Duty has been stamped out to make way for more home ownership,” he said. “Now Queenslanders building their first home won’t pay a single cent in stamp duty.”
Treasurer and Minister for Home Ownership David Janetzki echoed that sentiment, calling the move a commonsense change that gives real cost-of-living relief and makes owning a home a reachable goal again.
How Cairns Will Benefit
Cairns is a growing city with a vibrant population and an increasing demand for housing. But like many regional centres, it has been hit hard by rising prices, limited housing stock, and stretched rental markets.
This reform means more locals will be able to stay in the region, invest in their future, and build strong roots in the Cairns community—rather than being forced to relocate or continue renting indefinitely.
It also encourages new builds, which will create jobs, stimulate local industries, and help meet the growing demand for housing in Far North Queensland.
Ready to Take the First Step?
If you’re a first home buyer in Cairns looking to take advantage of these changes, more information is available at the Queensland Revenue Office website.
Whether you’re dreaming of a beachside home, a family-friendly estate in the suburbs, or a custom build on a fresh block of land, the path to home ownership just got a lot clearer.
