Transfer duty (stamp duty) in NSW: who pays and how much

Transfer duty is a tax on property transactions in NSW. Most buyers have to pay it. This guide explains what it is, who pays, when it is due, and how much it costs.

What is transfer duty

Transfer duty, still widely called stamp duty, is a state tax charged when property or certain other assets change hands. Revenue NSW collects it. For a home purchase, it is one of the larger upfront costs, so it pays to budget for it early.

Who pays and when

The buyer pays transfer duty. It is due by the earlier of the settlement date, or 3 months after the contract is signed. If you buy off the plan and you are eligible, you may be able to defer payment by up to an extra 12 months, though the amount does not change. Interest accrues on any overdue duty.

How much is transfer duty

Duty is calculated on the dutiable value of the property, which is usually the price or the market value, whichever is higher. The rate rises in brackets. The figures below apply for the 2026/2027 financial year, and are adjusted each year in line with the Consumer Price Index. You can check the current figures and calculate your own with the Revenue NSW transfer duty calculator.

Premium duty on higher-value homes

A higher rate, called premium transfer duty, applies to residential land above a set threshold. For 2026/2027 that threshold is $3,870,000, with duty of $194,137 plus $7.00 per $100 over the threshold.

First home buyer help

First home buyers may pay no duty or a reduced rate under the First Home Buyers Assistance Scheme. The current thresholds are a full exemption for a home up to $800,000, and a concessional rate between $800,000 and $1,000,000. For vacant land, the full exemption applies up to $350,000, with a concession up to $450,000.

Eligibility rules apply, including that you must not have owned a home in Australia before, and you must move in within the required time. Confirm your eligibility with Revenue NSW or with us before you rely on the saving.

Foreign purchasers

A surcharge purchaser duty applies to foreign persons who buy residential property in NSW. It is charged on top of ordinary transfer duty and is paid at the same time. The rate is 9 per cent, which has applied since 1 January 2025.

Frequently asked questions

Is stamp duty the same as transfer duty? Yes. Transfer duty is the current name. Many people still call it stamp duty.

When do I have to pay it? Generally by the earlier of settlement or 3 months from the contract date.

Do first home buyers pay stamp duty in NSW? Not always. A full exemption applies for an eligible first home up to $800,000, with a concession up to $1,000,000.

How is the amount worked out? On the dutiable value, which is the price or market value, whichever is higher, applied to the rate brackets above.

Keep reading

• Property and conveyancing
• Buying a home in NSW: the conveyancing process explained
• First home buyer grants and concessions in NSW

This article contains general information only and is not legal advice. For advice about your situation, please contact us. Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.