Property Tax Links and Land Tax Table

​Understanding the tax implications of property investment is crucial for long-term success. Taxation affects cash flow, borrowing capacity, and overall returns, making it essential to stay informed and incorporate these considerations into your planning. While this section provides an overview of key taxation areas, we strongly recommend consulting with a property-savvy tax accountant for personalized advice.

Tax laws and thresholds are subject to change; therefore, staying updated is vital. Below are key resources to help you navigate your tax obligations effectively:​

Stamp Duty (Transfer Duty):

Stamp duty rates and concessions vary by state and territory.

• New South Wales (NSW):​
• • Transfer Duty – Revenue NSW​
• Victoria (VIC):​
  • Land Transfer Duty – State Revenue Office Victoria​
• Queensland (QLD):
  • Transfer Duty – Queensland Revenue Office​
• South Australia (SA):​
  • Stamp Duties – RevenueSA​
• Western Australia (WA):​
  • Transfer Duty – Department of Finance WA​
• Tasmania (TAS):​
  • Property Transfer Duties – State Revenue Office Tasmania​
• Australian Capital Territory (ACT):​
  • Conveyance Duty – ACT Revenue Office​
• Northern Territory (NT):​
  • Stamp Duty – NT Treasury and Finance​​

Capital Gains Tax (CGT):

For comprehensive information on CGT and potential exemptions, consult the Australian Taxation Office (ATO):​

• Capital Gains Tax – ATO​

Negative Gearing and Tax Deductions:

Understanding eligible deductions and negative gearing rules is vital. The ATO provides detailed guides:​

• Rental Properties 2024 – ATO​
• PAYG Withholding Variation Application – ATO​

Goods and Services Tax (GST):

GST implications can arise in certain property transactions, especially in property development or commercial real estate. For guidance:​

• GST and Property – ATO​

ATO Clearance Certificate:

Australian residents selling property may require a clearance certificate to avoid withholding amounts at settlement.

• Australian Residents and Clearance Certificates – ATO

Land Tax:

Last updated: 1 March 2025

Land tax regulations, including thresholds and rates, differ across jurisdictions.

Land tax in Australia is a state or territory levy on land ownership, calculated annually based on the unimproved land value. Generally, it doesn’t apply to owner-occupied homes (principal place of residence) but does impact investment properties, commercial properties, and vacant land.

On the podcast, we get heaps of questions about land tax—how it’s calculated, whether investors should be worried, and which states have the trickiest rules. In fact, back in 2022, we saw a flood of questions when Queensland announced a new land tax, only to scrap it a month later after major backlash. 😌

Is Land Tax the same as Property Tax?

A common question we get is whether land tax is the same as property tax. While they might sound similar, they’re actually different. Land tax is based on the unimproved value of the land (excluding buildings or improvements) and is typically levied on investment properties, commercial properties, and vacant land.

Property tax, on the other hand, is a broader term that can refer to different things depending on the context. Internationally, it often refers to a general tax on the total value of a property (land + buildings), paid annually by both owner-occupiers and investors. In Australia, we don’t have a broad-based annual property tax across all properties, but some state-specific property taxes do exist.

Australian Land Tax Breakdown: How Much Will You Pay?

Since each state and territory has different thresholds, rates, and rules, we’ve pulled together all the key details  in one spot for our borderless investor community. Keep in mind that land tax rates can change depending on how the property is owned (e.g., individuals, trusts, or companies). Below is a state-by-state summary of land tax regulations for individual owners, including links to get more details.

It’s important to note that land tax generally applies to investment properties, commercial properties, and vacant land. Owner-occupied properties (principal places of residence) are typically exempt from land tax. However, specific exemptions and thresholds vary by state and territory. For detailed information on exemptions and specific calculations, please refer to the respective state or territory revenue office websites linked above.​

How are they calculated?

Land tax is calculated annually based on the combined unimproved value of taxable landholdings. Each state and territory has its own method of valuation and assessment. Generally, the process involves:​

• Valuation of Land: The unimproved value of each parcel of land is determined by the state’s Valuer-General or equivalent authority.​
• Aggregation of Landholdings: The total unimproved value of all taxable land owned by an individual or entity is aggregated.​
• Application of Thresholds and Rates: The aggregated value is compared against the state’s land tax thresholds, and the applicable rates are applied to calculate the tax payable.​

For precise calculations and to understand how land tax may apply to your specific situation, it’s advisable to consult the relevant state or territory revenue office or seek professional advice from a qualified tax accountant.

Are there any Land Tax Exemptions and Relief?

There are several land tax exemptions and relief measures available across Australia, but they vary by state and territory. Common exemptions include land used as a principal place of residence, primary production land, and certain non-profit or charitable uses.

Some states also offer relief for properties affected by natural disasters or hardship. Since eligibility rules and application processes differ, it’s best to check directly with the relevant state or territory revenue office for the most up-to-date information.

Need expert guidance on land tax? Our sister company at Empower Wealth offers specialised tax accounting services to help property investors navigate land tax obligations, optimise deductions, and build sustainable tax structures that support your future goals. Get in touch today here!

Disclaimer:

This information is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or tax advice. While care has been taken to ensure accuracy at the time of publication, we make no guarantees about completeness or reliability. Always consult a qualified tax advisor to ensure you’re making informed decisions based on your unique circumstances.