Low-income families to receive higher first-home grants

First-home buyers will receive greater financial assistance under the 2026–2027 National Budget, with a revised grant structure aimed at helping low- and middle-income families enter the housing market.

In his Budget address this morning, Finance Minister Esrom Immanuel said the changes were designed to ensure Government assistance was better targeted towards those most in need, particularly households struggling to buy their first home.

A total of $3 million has been allocated to the First Home Ownership Assistance Programme for the new financial year.

Higher grants for low-income households

Under the revised programme, households earning $30,000 or less will be eligible for grants of up to:

• $40,000 to build a home; and
• $30,000 to purchase a home.

Mr Immanuel said the increased assistance reflected rising housing costs and the need to provide greater support to vulnerable families.

More support for middle-income earners

Households earning between $30,000 and $60,000 will also receive increased assistance.

Under the revised scheme:

• the home purchase grant will increase from $5,000 to $15,000; and
• the home construction grant will remain at $20,000.

Mr Immanuel said the changes were expected to make it easier for middle-income families to secure finance and enter the property market.

Better targeted assistance

Households earning more than $60,000 will no longer qualify for the programme.

Mr Immanuel said the change would ensure Government resources were directed towards those facing the greatest barriers to home ownership.

The measures complement broader housing initiatives, including the relocation of about 1,200 households from informal settlements into new developments.

Mr Immanuel said the Government was also working with the Housing Authority, the Public Rental Board and private sector partners to increase the supply of residential lots and affordable housing nationwide.