Yes. At least one applicant must live in the home as their principal place of residence for a continuous period of at least 6 months, starting within 12 months of settlement or completion. The grant is for owner occupiers.
Written by Ross McFarlane, Licensed Mortgage Broker (Credit Representative 526725). About the authorThis is a condition of the grant, not a suggestion. If you intend to rent the property out, or you are buying it as an investment, you will not be eligible. If your circumstances are unusual, for example you are posted away for work, it is worth confirming how the residence rule applies before you commit.
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General information only. This page provides general information based on first home buyer settings current in 2026. It is not financial advice, a quote, or a guarantee, and your personal circumstances have not been considered. Grant amounts, caps, eligibility and scheme places change and vary by circumstance, and some help applies only to new homes. Always confirm current grants and your eligibility with RevenueSA, Housing Australia, or a licensed mortgage broker. Ross McFarlane (Credit Representative 526725) is an authorised Credit Representative of Australian Associated Advisers Pty Ltd t/a Keylend, Australian Credit Licence 392169.