For many Australians, owning a home is the dream. The government recognizes the importance of homeownership in providing stability, security, and a sense of belonging. As such, several schemes and grants have been established to make this dream more achievable, including the Family Home Guarantee (FHG).
The Family Home Guarantee is a government scheme designed to assist single parents in buying a home. It provides a guarantee to eligible single parents with dependents, allowing them to purchase a home with a deposit of as little as 2%. This scheme aims to make homeownership more accessible to single parents, who may find it challenging to save for a deposit due to their financial responsibilities.
Eligibility criteria for the Family Home Guarantee:
- must be an individual
- a single parent with at least one dependent child (see amendment starting 01 July 2023)
- must be an Australian citizen
- must be at least 18 years old
- must earn no more than $125,000 per year
- must not currently own a property
- must intend to be the owner-occupier of the purchased property
- must be a single parent with at least one dependent child
- the dependent child must be under 16 years of age OR between 16 and 22 years old and receives a disability support pension within the meaning of the Social Security Act 1991 AND lives with the applicant
- Applicant must be the natural or adoptive parent of the child and legally responsible for their day-to-day care, welfare, and development.
How can Single Parents apply for the Family Home Guarantee?
Applications for the FHG can only be made through a participating lender or their authorized representative. NHFIC does not accept applications for the FHG or provide personal financial advice. Homebuyers should consider consulting with a participating lender and seeking independent financial and legal advice about whether a particular home loan or property and the terms of the FHG, suit their personal circumstances and objectives.
What types of properties can you buy under the Family Home Guarantee?
- Existing house
- Townhouse or apartment
- House and land package
- Land and a separate contract to build a home
- Off-the-plan apartment or townhouse
The property must be located in Australia
The property must meet specific price caps for the location.
Changes in the Family Home Guarantee beginning 01 July 2023
The eligibility criteria for the Family Home Guarantee will also be expanded from single natural or adoptive parents with dependents to eligible borrowers who are single legal guardians of children such as aunts, uncles, and grandparents. Additionally, eligible permanent residents are now included in the criteria. This change means more Australians can access the scheme, which provides 5,000 places per year until 30 June 2025.
We’re here to help!
At a time when the housing market can be challenging to navigate, the FHG and other schemes and grants can be a great help. However, it’s essential to consider your individual circumstances and objectives carefully. You may benefit from seeking professional advice from a participating lender or speaking to us.
Family Home Guarantee is an excellent opportunity for single parents and adoptive parents to achieve homeownership. If you’re eligible, it’s worth exploring the scheme’s potential benefits with a participating lender or authorized representative. Remember, homeownership can be an essential step towards building a more stable and secure future for you and your family.
Maria Papa is a senior property and finance expert specializing in home loans, investment loans, self-employed loans, alt doc loans, car loans, personal loans, and loan protection. She has offices in Sydney, Melbourne, and Manila. If you have questions, you can call Maria at 0430 144 008 or email her at mpapa@maverickfinance.com.au
Your full financial situation will need to be reviewed prior to acceptance of any offer or product.