How we help in Queensland
Whether you are in Brisbane or regional QLD, our separation finance service works entirely online. We help with:
- Refinancing to sole name - removing your ex from the mortgage and taking over the loan independently
- Partner buyouts - calculating equity splits and structuring the buyout finance
- Fresh start lending - getting a new home loan after your property settlement
- Consent order timing - coordinating with your lawyer to align the finance and legal timelines
- Stamp duty exemptions - ensuring you do not pay unnecessary duty on separation transfers
Queensland's $30,000 FHOG makes it particularly attractive for separated parents looking to build a new home. The critical timing requirement for stamp duty exemptions (court order must come before transfer) catches many people out. Brisbane and the Gold Coast have seen strong price growth, making early action on property settlement important.
Stamp duty exemption in Queensland
Duties Act 2001 (Qld)
Full exemption from transfer duty for separation property transfers. Important: the court order must be issued BEFORE the property transfer takes place. This timing requirement is critical and differs from other states. Apply through the Queensland Revenue Office.
Without formal Consent Orders or a BFA, there is no stamp duty exemption. An informal agreement between you and your ex does not qualify. The stamp duty savings alone can be tens of thousands of dollars, which is one of the strongest reasons to formalise your property settlement.
First Home Owner Grant in Queensland
$30,000 for new homes under $750,000
Queensland currently offers one of the most generous FHOG amounts on the mainland at $30,000 (boosted rate, check current end date). First home buyer stamp duty concessions also apply on properties up to $700,000.
If you previously owned a home with your ex, you may still qualify for the FHOG when buying a new home after separation. The key question is whether you personally lived in a property you owned. We can help you assess your eligibility.
Family Court in Queensland
Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA)
Queensland family law matters are handled by the FCFCOA, with registries in Brisbane, Cairns, and Townsville.
Time limits: Married couples have 12 months from the date of divorce to commence property settlement proceedings. De facto couples have 2 years from the date of separation. If you miss these deadlines, you may lose your right to claim.
How lenders assess separation borrowers in QLD
When you apply for a home loan after separation, lenders consider:
- Single income serviceability - can you afford the repayments on your income alone?
- Child support received - many lenders accept 80-100% of child support as supplementary income (must be CSA-assessed)
- Child support paid - treated as a fixed expense, reducing your borrowing capacity
- Centrelink payments - Family Tax Benefit and Parenting Payment are accepted by most lenders
- Property valuation - the current value determines your equity position and LVR
- Legal costs - outstanding legal fees may affect your borrowing capacity
Support services in Queensland
Legal aid
Legal Aid Queensland - 1300 651 188
Crisis support
DVConnect Womensline - 1800 811 811 (24/7)
Family Relationship Advice Line
1800 050 321 (Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat 10am-4pm)
National Debt Helpline
1800 007 007 (free financial counselling)
1800RESPECT
1800 737 732 (24/7 DV and sexual assault counselling)
Other states
We help clients across all of Australia. See our state-specific guides: