Victims of domestic, family and sexual violence will be offered full stamp duty relief and access to the First Home Owner Grant under a new South Australian Government support scheme aimed at helping survivors secure safe and independent housing.
The measure, announced by the Malinauskas Government, forms part of a broader response to domestic and family violence, which has been identified as the leading cause of homelessness among women in Australia.
South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas said the policy is intended to reduce barriers faced by survivors trying to rebuild their lives.
He said the government was committed to providing practical assistance to help vulnerable women secure safe housing and independence, alongside broader investments in housing and support services for survivors.
Under the new ex gratia scheme, eligible applicants will be able to receive 100 per cent stamp duty relief on the purchase of a new or established home. They may also qualify for the First Home Owner Grant for eligible new home builds or vacant land contracts entered into on or after 4 June 2026.
The initiative is designed to recognise the financial vulnerability faced by people leaving violent relationships, many of whom exit their homes with limited or no financial resources.
Government data and national surveys indicate that a significant proportion of women experiencing intimate partner violence are forced to leave their homes when relationships end, often contributing to housing instability and homelessness.
The scheme allows individuals who have vacated a home due to domestic, family or sexual violence to still be eligible for support, provided they have not received a material financial benefit from the previous property and meet other eligibility requirements. Applicants will also generally be required to live in the new home as their principal place of residence for at least 12 months, although exemptions may apply in cases where violence or safety concerns prevent compliance.
Treasurer Tom Koutsantonis said the initiative acknowledges the financial hardship often experienced by those escaping violence and aims to reduce structural barriers to home ownership.
Officials said the scheme complements broader reforms arising from the Royal Commission into Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence, including long-term investment in housing support and the expansion of public housing dedicated to survivors.
The government says the initiative is part of a wider effort to improve safety outcomes and ensure survivors are not further disadvantaged when attempting to re-enter the housing market.
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