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Stay connected for legal updates and insights
What changed, what’s still possible, and how to get it right.
The short answer is yes — but the rules have changed significantly, and understanding where you stand before taking any steps is critical.
What changed in April 2025: the Australian Government introduced stricter rules around foreign property ownership. Temporary visa holders — including those on subclass 482, 491, student visas, and most other temporary pathways — are no longer permitted to purchase established (existing) residential property. This restriction is currently in place until at least March 2027.
Temporary residents can still purchase the following, generally subject to approval from the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB):
For visa holders, new property isn’t just the only option — it’s often the smartest entry point into the Australian market.
In states like Queensland and Victoria, buyers may receive concessions on the construction component of off-the-plan purchases — reducing upfront costs.
New builds allow investors to maximise depreciation from day one of settlement, improving cash flow and tax efficiency.
Off-the-plan purchases typically settle in the future, creating a strategic advantage: lock in today’s price, allow time for capital growth during construction, and align settlement with your permanent residency (PR) timeline.
New properties come with warranties, updated compliance standards, and lower maintenance risk — especially important for overseas or first-time investors.
FIRB approval is a required step for most temporary residents. While it’s a formal process, it is generally straightforward when:
This is where professional guidance becomes critical.
Buying property on a visa is not just about choosing the right asset — it’s about structuring the purchase correctly from day one. Key considerations include:
This is exactly why Atlas Business Group operates as an integrated model. Instead of navigating these separately:
…you work with one aligned team, through:
Together, they handle the full picture:
No fragmented advice. No referral chains. Just one coordinated strategy.
If you’re on a visa in Australia, property is still very much within reach — but the margin for error is smaller than it used to be. The difference between a good decision and a costly one often comes down to when you seek advice.
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