Complete Guide to ACT Stamp Duty (2026)
The Australian Capital Territory is unique β it is phasing out stamp duty and replacing it with higher annual land tax (general rates). During the transition, conveyance duty still applies but at progressively lower rates each year. The ACT Revenue Office administers the duty. Use our ACT stamp duty calculator for an instant estimate.
How ACT Stamp Duty Is Calculated
Conveyance duty in the ACT is calculated on the higher of the purchase price or market value. The ACT uses a formula-based approach with rates that decrease annually as part of the tax reform.
Current ACT Conveyance Duty Rates (2024β25)
| Property Value | Rate |
|---|---|
| $0 β $200,000 | $0.60 per $100 (or part thereof) |
| $200,001 β $300,000 | $1,200 + $2.20 per $100 over $200,000 |
| $300,001 β $500,000 | $3,400 + $3.40 per $100 over $300,000 |
| $500,001 β $750,000 | $10,200 + $4.32 per $100 over $500,000 |
| $750,001 β $1,000,000 | $21,000 + $5.90 per $100 over $750,000 |
| $1,000,001 β $1,455,000 | $35,750 + $6.40 per $100 over $1,000,000 |
| Over $1,455,000 | Flat rate of 4.54% of the property value |
These rates decrease each financial year as part of the ACT's 20-year tax reform. Check the ACT Revenue Office for the latest rates, or use our ACT calculator.
First Home Buyer Concessions
The ACT offers the Home Buyer Concession Scheme (HBCS) for eligible buyers (including first home buyers and previous property owners who meet income criteria):
- Full exemption: No conveyance duty on properties valued up to $1,000,000 (subject to income thresholds)
- Income thresholds: Combined household income must be under $160,000 (single) or $160,000 (couple/family)
- Property must be your principal place of residence for at least 1 year
Unlike other states, the ACT scheme is not restricted to first home buyers β it is an income-tested concession available to anyone buying a home to live in, provided they meet the income criteria and don't own other property at settlement.
Stamp Duty Reform β Phasing Out
The ACT is the only Australian jurisdiction actively abolishing stamp duty. Since 2012, the government has been progressively cutting conveyance duty rates and increasing annual general rates (land tax) to replace the revenue. The full abolition is expected to take approximately 20 years from the start date. During this transition, buyers still pay conveyance duty but at reduced rates compared to other states.
Foreign Buyer Surcharge
Foreign purchasers in the ACT do not currently pay a separate foreign buyer stamp duty surcharge. However, foreign owners pay a foreign ownership land tax surcharge of 0.75% on the Average Unimproved Value of their property annually. This is different from the upfront surcharges in other states.
When Is Stamp Duty Due?
Conveyance duty in the ACT is payable within 14 days of settlement β one of the shortest windows in Australia. Your conveyancer will typically handle payment at settlement.
Tips to Minimise ACT Stamp Duty
- Check if you qualify for the Home Buyer Concession Scheme β it applies to more people than just first home buyers.
- The ACT's rates are decreasing each year, so duty in future years may be lower than today.
- Use our ACT calculator for accurate estimates.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is stamp duty on a $700,000 property in the ACT?
For a standard purchase at $700,000, conveyance duty in the ACT is approximately $18,840. Eligible home buyers under the HBCS pay nothing. Use our calculator for exact figures.
Is the ACT abolishing stamp duty?
Yes β the ACT is progressively phasing out stamp duty and replacing it with higher annual land rates. The full abolition will take approximately 20 years from 2012.
Do I still have to pay stamp duty in the ACT?
Yes, conveyance duty still applies during the transition period, but at progressively lower rates each year.
Calculate Your ACT Stamp Duty Now
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