Queensland's three duty rates
QLD applies one of three scales depending on who's buying:
| Dutiable value | Standard rate |
|---|---|
| Up to $5,000 | Nil |
| $5,001 – $75,000 | 1.5% over $5,000 |
| $75,001 – $540,000 | $1,050 + 3.5% over $75,000 |
| $540,001 – $1,000,000 | $17,325 + 4.5% over $540,000 |
| Over $1,000,000 | $38,025 + 5.75% over $1,000,000 |
The home concession cuts the rate to just 1% on the first $350,000 for anyone buying a home to live in — worth up to $7,175 and available even if you've owned before. You must move in within a year and not sell or rent out the whole property within the first year.
First home buyers: new homes are duty-free at any price
Queensland went further than any other east-coast state: for contracts signed from 1 May 2025, first home buyers pay zero transfer duty on new homes and on vacant land they'll build on — with no price cap. For established homes, the first home concession gives full relief up to $700,000 and a tapered discount to $800,000 (worth up to $24,525).
What investors pay
Investors get the standard scale with no concessions — $17,325 + 4.5% in the band where most Brisbane houses now sit. Foreign purchasers add an 8% surcharge (AFAD). Duty is generally payable within 30 days of settlement, handled by your solicitor.
Worked example
A $650,000 property: investor duty is $17,325 + 4.5% × $110,000 = $22,275. An owner-occupier with the home concession pays $15,100. A first home buyer pays $0 if it's established (under the $700,000 cap) — and $0 at any price if it's a new build.