Can temporary residents buy property in Australia?

For temporary residents, buying property in Australia involves two separate sets of rules: the foreign investment rules about what you are allowed to buy, and the lending rules about whether a lender will finance you. Both changed in recent years, so here is the current picture as at 2026.

The foreign investment rules come first

Before lending even comes into play, foreign investment rules govern what foreign persons, including temporary residents, are allowed to buy. Under these rules, administered through the foreign investment framework, foreign persons are currently banned from purchasing established dwellings in Australia. This ban was extended and now runs until 30 June 2029.

What temporary residents can buy

Temporary residents can generally still apply for approval to purchase new dwellings or vacant land, since these support new housing supply. So the established dwelling ban does not close off property altogether, it directs temporary resident buyers toward new homes and land rather than existing established homes, subject to approval.

Buying with an Australian partner

A common situation is a temporary resident buying with an Australian citizen or permanent resident partner. Purchases made jointly with an Australian citizen or permanent resident spouse, as joint tenants, are generally exempt from the foreign investment approval requirements. This is an important exception for couples in this position.

Then the lending rules

Separately from what you are allowed to buy, you need a lender willing to finance you. Some lenders will lend to temporary residents on eligible visas, such as certain work or partner visas, while others will not. The visa types accepted, the maximum loan to value ratio and the deposit required all vary by lender.

Conditions for temporary residents

Lenders that lend to temporary residents often attach conditions, such as a larger deposit, restrictions based on the visa type and its remaining term, and how income is assessed. A borrower buying jointly with an Australian citizen or permanent resident is often in a stronger lending position than a sole temporary resident applicant.

Rules can change

Both the foreign investment rules and lender policies in this area have changed recently and can change again. So current information is essential, and you should confirm the foreign investment position against the official foreign investment sources rather than relying on older guidance.

Get the right advice and lender

Because this involves both foreign investment rules and lending policy, the useful step is to confirm what you are allowed to buy and match your situation to a lender that lends to your visa type. A broker who works with temporary residents can help with the lending side, usually at no cost to you, and you should verify the foreign investment rules with the official sources. This is general information, not advice.