Can New Zealand Citizens Buy Property in Australia?

Yes.

New Zealand citizens can buy property in Australia, and in many cases, the process is simpler than people expect.

Because of the special relationship between the two countries, most Kiwis living in Australia can purchase property without the restrictions that apply to other foreign buyers.

Moreover, Kiwis can also access grants and concessions.

But there are a few important rules around:

• Mortgages
• Deposits
• First home buyer benefits
• KiwiSaver

This guide explains how it works.

Do New Zealand Citizens Need Foreign Investment Approval?

Usually no.

Most New Zealand citizens living in Australia hold a Special Category Visa (SCV – subclass 444).

If you hold this visa and live in Australia, you are generally treated the same as an Australian resident when buying property.

That means:

• You usually do not need FIRB approval
• You can buy existing property
• You can apply for home loans with Australian lenders

This makes the process far easier than it is for most foreign buyers.

You can download your visa here Check visa details and conditions

Can New Zealand Citizens Get a Home Loan in Australia?

Yes.

Many Australian lenders will provide home loans to New Zealand citizens.

The main factors lenders assess are the same as for Australian borrowers:

• Income
• Employment stability (full time vs casual)
• Credit history
• Deposit size
• Existing debt

Most Kiwis can borrow 80–90% of the property value, depending on the lender and their financial position.

Example:

Property price: $800,000

Typical deposit options:

• 10% deposit = $80,000
• 20% deposit = $160,000

Some lenders allow higher borrowing with Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).

Furthermore, Kiwis can get access to further grants and schemes, including the or 5% Home Guarantee Scheme (HGS).

First Home Guarantee 2025: Buy Your First Home with Just a 5% Deposit

Do New Zealand Citizens Qualify for First Home Buyer Benefits?

Yes.

Eligibility depends on the state and your residency status.

New Zealand citizens may qualify for:

• First Home Buyer Assistance Scheme (stamp duty concessions)
• First Home Owner Grant (for new builds)

However, eligibility rules can change and often depend on:

• Permanent residency status
• How long you have lived in Australia
• Whether you have owned property before

It is important to check this early when planning your purchase.

Can KiwiSaver Be Used to Buy Property in Australia?

Yes.

If you permanently move to Australia, you may be able to transfer your KiwiSaver into an Australian super fund.

Once the funds are in Australia, they may be accessible through the First Home Super Saver Scheme (FHSS).

However, there are restrictions.

For example:

• Not all funds accept KiwiSaver
• FHSS withdrawal limits apply
• Timing rules must be followed

Because of this, many Kiwis still rely on savings rather than KiwiSaver transfers.

How to Use Your KiwiSaver to Buy a Home in Australia: A Guide for New Zealanders

Getting advice early can help avoid delays.

What Deposit Do Kiwis Usually Need?

Most lenders prefer at least 10–20% deposit.

Typical scenarios:

10% deposit
Possible, but may require Lenders Mortgage Insurance.

20% deposit
Often gives access to better interest rates and avoids LMI.

Some people may access equity in property in New Zealand, depending on the situation.

Common Mistakes Kiwis Make When Buying in Australia

Over the years I’ve seen a few patterns.

The most common issues are:

1. Assuming all lenders treat NZ citizens the same

They don’t.
Some lenders have far more flexible policies.

2. Waiting too long to speak with a broker

Early planning can help structure borrowing capacity properly.

3. Not understanding grant eligibility

Some buyers miss out on benefits simply because they apply incorrectly.

4. Confusion around KiwiSaver

Transfers and FHSS rules can be complex.

Should You Use a Mortgage Broker?

For many Kiwis, working with a broker makes the process easier.

Different lenders treat New Zealand citizens differently.

A broker can help:

• Compare multiple lenders
• Assess borrowing capacity
• Structure the application correctly
• Explain grant eligibility
• Coach from experience

This can save time and reduce the risk of loan rejection.

Moreover, Mortgage brokers are free of charge.

That’s right, our service is free. We’re paid a commission by the banks, which is built into their rates whether you use a broker or not. Our goal is to secure the best deal for you, always. 78% of all loans in Australia are done through brokers. We keep banks' profit margins lean as we make them compete for your business.

Should You Use a Mortgage Broker or Go Straight to the Bank?

Build your network with professionals who've got your back.

Buying Property in Australia as a Kiwi

Thousands of New Zealand citizens buy property in Australia every year.

With the right structure and lender, the process is often straightforward.

If you are planning to buy property in Australia and want to understand your borrowing options, feel free to get in touch.

I regularly help New Zealanders navigate the Australian lending system and secure home loans that suit their plans.