Complete Guide to WA Stamp Duty (2026)

In Western Australia, stamp duty is called transfer duty and is administered by the Department of Finance (Revenue WA). It applies to all property purchases and is a major upfront cost. Use our WA stamp duty calculator for an instant estimate.

How WA Stamp Duty Is Calculated

Transfer duty in WA is calculated on the dutiable value — the higher of the purchase price or market value. WA uses a tiered rate structure with separate scales for residential and general property.

Current WA Transfer Duty Rates — Residential (2024–25)

Check the Revenue WA website for the latest rates, or use our WA calculator.

First Home Buyer Exemptions & Concessions

Western Australia provides stamp duty relief for first home buyers:

• Full exemption: No stamp duty on homes valued up to $430,000
• Concession (sliding scale): Reduced duty on homes valued between $430,001 and $530,000
• Vacant land: Full exemption up to $300,000; concessions up to $400,000

To qualify, you must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident, aged 18+, and the property must be your principal place of residence. You must move in within 12 months and live there for at least 6 continuous months.

First Home Owner Grant (FHOG)

WA offers a $10,000 First Home Owner Grant for newly built homes valued up to $750,000 (or $750,000 for house and land). This is in addition to the stamp duty concession. See our first home buyer guide.

Foreign Buyer Surcharge

Foreign purchasers of residential property in WA pay a 7% foreign buyer surcharge on top of the standard transfer duty. This was introduced in 2019. Read our foreign buyer surcharge guide.

Off-the-Plan Concessions

Western Australia does not have a specific off-the-plan stamp duty concession. Duty is assessed on the full contract price. However, first home buyer exemptions still apply if the completed property value falls within the relevant thresholds.

When Is Stamp Duty Due?

Transfer duty in WA is payable within 2 months of the liability date (usually settlement). Your settlement agent will typically arrange payment as part of the settlement process.

Tips to Minimise WA Stamp Duty

• First home buyers: target properties under $430,000 for full stamp duty exemption.
• Consider vacant land under $300,000 and building — you get the land exemption plus potentially the FHOG.
• Budget accurately with our WA calculator.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is stamp duty on a $500,000 property in WA?

For a standard residential purchase at $500,000, stamp duty in WA is approximately $17,765. First home buyers may pay reduced duty at this price. Use our calculator for exact figures.

Do first home buyers pay stamp duty in WA?

First home buyers pay no stamp duty on homes up to $430,000 in WA. Between $430,001 and $530,000, a sliding concession applies.

Is the WA First Home Owner Grant still available?

Yes — the $10,000 FHOG is available for new homes valued up to $750,000 in Western Australia.