Transfer duty payment assistance for Western Australians affected by building construction delays

• Arrangements to defer payment of transfer duty for eligible buyers impacted by building construction delays
• Interest reductions for eligible buyers on payment arrangements

The Cook Labor Government is continuing to support buyers significantly impacted by construction delays in some off-the-plan developments.

A buyer in an off-the-plan development is required to pay transfer duty within three years of their contract date, or earlier if settlement occurs first. In some cases, unforeseen construction delays beyond the control of the buyer and the developer have seen settlement dates extend well beyond the original timeframe.

As a result of these circumstances, the Commissioner of State Revenue is exercising discretion to provide extra time under a payment arrangement for affected buyers to pay their transfer duty.

For arrangements entered until June 2025, the Commissioner will remit the interest normally charged on a payment arrangement for buyers in developments that were planned to be completed within three years from the contract date that remain unfinished.

Remissions of any late payment penalty tax will also be considered based on individual circumstances. 

Affected buyers are encouraged to apply to RevenueWA for assistance to manage payment of their duty by entering into a tax payment arrangement or to review arrangements already in place.

Where a buyer has paid the duty and their transaction does not proceed to settlement, they can apply to RevenueWA for a full refund of the amounts paid.

The Commissioner will continue to consider other requests for a tax payment arrangement on a case-by-case basis.  For more information contact RevenueWA on 9262 1100 or visit www.wa.gov.au.

Comments attributed to Treasurer Rita Saffioti:

"We understand how challenging it is for Western Australians who have been impacted by building delays, and our focus is on supporting them as best we can.

"By allowing eligible buyers to defer their payment of transfer duty, it's one less thing for them to think about while they wait for their home to be finished."

Comments attributed to Finance Minister Sue Ellery:

"We understand the difficulties faced by some Western Australians due to construction delays on apartment developments.

"We encourage anyone who believes they may be eligible to contact RevenueWA to discuss their situation."

Comments attributed to Housing Minister John Carey:

"Acknowledging the current market conditions, we continue to provide support to Western Australians impacted by construction delays.  

"This initiative will ensure eligible buyers are supported while they wait for their off-the-plan development to be built."