Federal Budget Announcement
The Federal Government’s latest housing reforms
are designed to help more Australians enter the property market sooner, with expanded support for first homebuyers and stronger incentives for newly built homes.*
The 2026–27 Federal Budget has introduced some of the biggest housing and property tax reforms Australia has seen in decades, with a strong focus on increasing housing supply and improving access to home ownership for future buyers. Many of the changes are aimed at making it easier for Australians to purchase or build a new home, particularly within growing new communities across Victoria.
For first home buyers, the reforms signal a clear shift toward supporting newly built homes over established properties. At Homebuyers Centre Victoria, we understand that navigating government schemes, finance, deposits and land availability can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve broken down the key housing announcements in simple terms, including what they could mean if you’re planning to build your first home.
A stronger focus on new builds
The headline housing announcement from the Budget is the proposed reform to negative gearing and Capital Gains Tax (CGT). From 1 July 2027, investors purchasing established residential properties after budget night may no longer be able to offset rental losses against their salary or wages income in the same way they can today.
Importantly, most newly built homes are expected to remain exempt from those restrictions.
That means investors purchasing qualifying new homes would still retain access to existing negative gearing arrangements, while established homes purchased after the cut-off date would move into a more limited framework.
For first home buyers, this matters because government policy is now increasingly aligned toward encouraging new housing supply. In simple terms, the Federal Government is encouraging more investment into newly built homes and future housing supply.
Faster approvals and reduced red tape
The reforms also focus on streamlining the development and construction process. Access to infrastructure funding will be linked to state-based reforms aimed at:
• Faster planning approvals
• Simpler development pathways
• Improved land availability
• A nationally consistent construction code
These changes are designed to reduce delays, improve productivity and accelerate housing delivery across Australia.
More tradies to support residential construction growth
Workforce shortages remain a major challenge across residential construction. To help address this, the Government is investing $85.2 million to accelerate skills assessments for qualified migrant tradespeople and improve pathways for skilled workers to enter the construction workforce faster.
This builds on existing initiatives including:
• Free TAFE programs
• The $10,000 apprentice incentive for residential construction training
Together, these measures aim to strengthen workforce capacity and support the industry’s ability to meet growing housing demand.
Building with Homebuyers Centre
At Homebuyers Centre, we work with first home buyers, so we understand that entering the property market can feel like a big step. Budget announcements, interest rates, grants, land releases and finance conversations can quickly become overwhelming — especially when you’re navigating the process for the first time.
That’s why our focus has always been on helping buyers feel supported from the very beginning. Our fixed-price contracts are designed to provide greater certainty around costs, while our team and finance partner, Resolve Finance, can help guide you through:
• Available grants and concessions
• Finance pathways and deposit options
• House and land opportunities
• Home designs suited to your lifestyle and budget
• What to expect throughout the building journey
We also understand the Western Australian market specifically, including where growth areas are emerging and how first home buyers are approaching affordability in today’s environment.
So what?
The Federal Budget may continue shaping the housing market over the coming years, but one thing remains consistent: demand for quality new homes and connected communities across WA continues to grow.
For many buyers, building new offers the opportunity to secure a home designed for modern living, with contemporary layouts, new inclusions and the confidence that comes with a brand-new build.
Chat to us!
Speak to a New Homes Consultant to explore your options and connect with our trusted finance partner, Resolve Finance.
Whether you’re ready to start building or simply exploring your options, we can help you understand what may be possible based on your budget, lifestyle, and goals.
Information on this page does not consider your personal needs and financial circumstances and you should consider whether it is appropriate for you. This article is general in nature and based on the 2026-27 Federal Budget announcements made on 12 May 2026. Budget measures are subject to parliamentary passage and may change. Please note this is a guide only, this information may be subject to change. All Financial services provided by Resolve Financial Solutions Pty Ltd trading as Resolve Finance ABN: 65 079 545 378 Australian Credit Licence No. 385487. The building practitioner is ABN Group (Vic) Pty Ltd. Trading as Homebuyers Centre. CDB-U 49215. Finance options are available through Resolve Finance Solutions PTY LTD trading as Resolve Finance ABN 65 079 545 378 (Australian Credit License 385487).