Government Support for First Home Buyers: What You Need to Know

Breaking out of the rental cycle and into your own home can feel like a massive leap. But if you’re dreaming of owning a place by the water in South Australia, there’s good news. There are national programs designed to help you get there sooner.

The First Home Super Saver (FHSS) and the First Home Guarantee (FHGS) are schemes created to help bridge the gap between saving and owning, and they can make your homeownership goals at Fletcher’s Slip feel a lot more achievable.

You might be wondering if these schemes really move the needle, and the answer is yes, they can. Used together, they form a smoother pathway to owning your first home.

Here, we’ll break down how each scheme works, who they suit, how they can be combined, and how they apply if you're looking to secure a low-maintenance townhome in a location like Fletcher’s Slip.

What is the First Home Super Saver (FHSS) and how does it work?

The First Home Super Saver scheme lets you make voluntary contributions into your superannuation fund, which you can later withdraw an eligible amount to go towards your first home. It’s a disciplined way to save and suits buyers still in the saving stage.

But timing is key. Once you request to release your funds, you typically have 12 months to sign a property contract, whether that’s for an established home, a new build, or an off-the-plan townhouse.

To make it work, it’s best to first map out your expected buying timeline, when you’ll sign and when you’ll settle, then organise your FHSS fund release to match. That way, you’ll avoid any unnecessary stress.

What is the First Home Guarantee (FHGS) and how does it work?

Unlike the FHSS, which helps you build your deposit, the First Home Guarantee scheme lets eligible first-home buyers purchase a home with as little as 5% deposit and no Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).

It’s important to note, however, that it doesn’t replace normal credit checks, each participating lender still has its own lending rules. Rather, it sits alongside them.

It works well for new builds and off-the-plan purchases; the only difference is making sure your finance approval and contract dates are covered, and asking how your lender handles longer build times and staged construction.

Can I use the First Home Super Saver and First Home Guarantee schemes together?

Yes! You can combine the First Home Super Saver and the First Home Guarantee if you meet all eligibility criteria.

In fact, many first-home buyers use the FHSS to save faster and then apply for a home loan through a participating lender under the FHGS.

That’s because each scheme helps with different parts of the buying process - building the deposit, and reducing how much deposit you actually need.

Did you know, that as a South Australian buyer, there’s even more support available if you’re purchasing a new build or off-the-plan townhouse, like those available at Fletcher’s Slip.

And if you’re purchasing a new build or off-the-plan townhouse, like those available at Fletcher’s Slip, the benefits don’t stop there.

In 2025, the South Australian government introduced the Stamp Duty Relief program for eligible first home buyers, available exclusively for those looking to purchase off-the-plan properties, new homes or vacant land.

If you’re looking to buy in these categories, it means you may not have to pay the stamp duty that would typically apply, saving you a bucketload upfront.

In addition, first homeowners may also be eligible for a one-off First Home Owner Grant payment of up to $15,000, again for those looking to build or buy a brand new home, including off-the-plan townhomes.

These extra incentives make Fletcher’s Slip an even more attractive place to begin your next chapter.

Why Choose a Fletcher’s Slip Townhouse?

At Fletcher’s Slip, you're not just buying a townhouse, you’re stepping into a whole new lifestyle. Perfectly positioned between historic Port Adelaide and the pristine sands of Semaphore Beach, this harbourside community is defined by connection to the water, leafy green spaces, and thoughtful masterplanning.

For first-home buyers, it offers a unique combination of benefits: longer settlement timelines provide the opportunity to keep saving through the FHSS scheme, while eligible buyers can also access stamp duty savings and the First Home Owner Grant.

Whether it’s early morning paddleboarding, sunset walks along the promenade, or weekends discovering local cafes and markets, Fletcher’s Slip is where your coastal lifestyle begins.

How to get started on your first home ownership journey

With all this in mind, if you’re ready to jump in headfirst and get a foot on the property ladder, here are five steps you can take, starting today:

1. Choose your property type. If you're looking for low-maintenance, high-quality living, a Fletcher’s Slip townhouse is a great fit.
2. Check your eligibility. Do your research. Jump onto the ATO’s website to check out the FHSS, find participating lenders for the FHGS and - if you’re buying new or off-the-plan - information about the SA stamp duty relief and the FHOG can be found on the RevenueSA website.
3. Set your timeline. Work out some rough dates - how long you’ll keep saving, when you plan to buy, your settlement window and when you’ll need funds released through the FHSS.
4. Get your finance pre-approvals in place. Speak to a mortgage broker or participating lenders about the FHGS. Ask how they handle established vs new or off-the-plan properties, and how long their approvals stay valid.
5. Do a final check. Reconfirm your eligibility for any support and finance and make sure all your applications and approvals are still valid before you sign any contract.

What mistakes should you avoid when considering government housing support schemes?

Of course, like anything, there are a few pitfalls you’ll want to sidestep on your path towards first home ownership – especially when it comes to any support you’ll need to make it a reality.

And often, the biggest stumbles are the simplest ones. Here are three common mistakes to keep in mind as you move forward:

1. Assuming all schemes work together automatically. Always check eligibility and timing for each.
2. Letting important dates and approvals lapse. Keep track of pre-approvals, FHSS release windows, and contract milestones.
3. Choosing a property that doesn’t qualify. If you’re counting on any of these schemes to help you buy a first home, make sure the property you choose actually qualifies before falling in love with it. Our Fletcher’s Slip sales team can help confirm this with you.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Government housing support schemes are there to help make first homeownership a reality. With architecturally designed homes and smart layouts, Fletcher’s Slip gives you the space to start fresh, close to everything you love.

To learn more or explore townhomes now selling, visit the Townhouse for Sale page or drop by the Sales Centre on the corner of Semaphore Road and Jenkins Street, New Port.

Your first home, and your new lifestyle, could be just around the corner.