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Overview
Stamp duty is a significant upfront cost when purchasing property in South Australia. SA uses progressive brackets with concessions for first home buyers and surcharges for foreign purchasers.
How SA Stamp Duty Works
SA duty is administered by RevenueSA using tiered brackets. Each portion of the purchase price is taxed at its own marginal rate.
Key drivers
- Purchase price and applicable brackets
- Buyer type — first home buyers may access relief on eligible new homes, off-the-plan purchases and vacant land
- Property type affects concession eligibility
- Foreign buyer surcharge may apply
Use the SA Stamp Duty Calculator for instant estimates.
First Home Buyer Concessions
For contracts entered into on or after 6 June 2024, RevenueSA says eligible first home buyers can receive full stamp duty relief on a new home or vacant land, with no property value cap. Established homes still use the normal duty rates unless another relief applies. The First Home Owner Grant may also apply for eligible new builds.
Foreign Buyer Surcharge
Non-resident purchasers face an additional surcharge in SA.
Tips
- Select the correct property type before estimating duty
- Check whether the contract is for an established home, new home, off-the-plan purchase or vacant land
- Confirm FHB eligibility with RevenueSA or your conveyancer before relying on relief
Use the SA Stamp Duty Calculator to estimate your costs.
Frequently asked questions
How is SA stamp duty calculated?
Using progressive brackets with first home buyer relief and foreign buyer surcharges where applicable.
Do FHBs pay stamp duty in SA?
Eligible first home buyers may receive full stamp duty relief on new homes, off-the-plan purchases and vacant land. Established homes generally remain subject to standard duty.
Where can I calculate SA duty?
Use our SA Stamp Duty Calculator: /calc/stamp-duty/sa.
How is stamp duty different from land tax?
Stamp duty is a one-off payment at purchase. Land tax is an annual charge on investment properties based on land value.
Can I get a refund on stamp duty?
Stamp duty refunds are rare and typically only apply if a contract is rescinded. Check with your state revenue office for specific circumstances.
RealEstateCalc Editorial
Property & Finance ResearchThe RealEstateCalc editorial team researches and writes about Australian property, finance, and tax topics. All content is fact-checked against official sources including the ATO, state revenue offices, ASIC Moneysmart, and the RBA.
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