Upcoming changes to the WA off-the-plan duty concession

The WA State Government has announced proposed changes to the Off-the-Plan Duty Concession - a concession offered by the WA Government, administered by RevenueWA, that reduces the amount of transfer duty you pay when you buy a new apartment, unit or townhouse before or during construction. The changes are aimed at supporting new housing supply and improving affordability. However, they are not yet in effect and remain subject to the Parliamentary process and system updates by RevenueWA.

KEY CHANGES

Increase the value thresholds

The purchase price thresholds for the concession will increase to allow more buyers of newly constructed properties to access the full concession:

• The maximum concession rate will apply to purchases up to $800,000 (previously $750,000).

• The concession will phase down to the base concession rate for purchases above $900,000 (previously $850,000).

Extend the concession

The concession will be extended for a further 2 years, continuing the government’s policy of encouraging the development and purchase of new housing.

Expand eligibility

The concession will be expanded to include properties in survey-strata schemes, which were previously excluded. This is a significant change that may benefit buyers of newly created survey-strata lots.

Commencement date

The changes are intended to apply to transactions entered into from 12 March 2026.

Implementation

Implementation is currently anticipated to occur around July 2026, although the exact timing remains subject to the Parliamentary process.

Transactions Settling Before Implementation

For transactions entered into on or after 12 March 2026 that qualify under the proposed changes but settle before implementation:

• The transaction will initially be assessed at the current duty rates.

• Taxpayers will be eligible for a reassessment and refund once the changes take effect.

What This Means for Buyers and Developers

These proposed changes are expected to:

• Increase the number of buyers eligible for the concession.

• Improve affordability for new housing purchases.

• Support development of survey-strata and other off-the-plan projects.