Australia has officially extended its temporary ban on foreign purchases of established residential dwellings to 30 June 2029, according to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). The extension, announced by Treasurer Jim Chalmers in the 2026–27 Federal Budget in May 2026, lengthens the ban by two years and three months beyond its original end date.
Key dates for the extended foreign buyer ban
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Original ban period | 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2027 |
| Extended ban period | Now runs to 30 June 2029 |
| Extension announced | 2026–27 Federal Budget, May 2026 |
| Governing body | Australian Taxation Office (ATO) |
Who the Australian foreign buyer ban applies to
The ban applies to foreign persons, including temporary residents and foreign-owned companies. Permanent residents and New Zealand citizens are exempt from the ban, according to the ATO.
What foreign buyers cannot purchase
Foreign persons subject to the ban may not purchase established residential dwellings during the restricted period.
What foreign buyers can still purchase in Australia
Foreign persons may still purchase, subject to foreign investment approval: new or near-new dwellings, off-the-plan property, vacant land, and established dwellings intended for redevelopment.
ATO guidance also notes that exceptions remain for certain investments that significantly increase housing supply or support the availability of housing supply. How these exceptions will be applied is described only in general terms so far, and case-by-case application remains uncertain.
How the extended ban will be enforced
The ATO has reportedly received additional funding to enforce the ban and screen foreign investment proposals, though details on specific enforcement measures remain limited. The detailed legislation giving legal effect to the Budget measure was not yet fully visible at the time of writing, though ATO guidance and the Budget papers set out the policy parameters clearly.
What the 2029 extension means for different buyers
Overseas investors: You may apply to purchase new dwellings, off-the-plan property, vacant land, or property for redevelopment. Established homes are generally off-limits until at least 30 June 2029.
Temporary residents: You are subject to the same restrictions during the ban period. Purchases of new or development property remain possible.
New Zealand citizens: You are explicitly exempt and not affected by the ban.
Foreign students: You may be subject to the ban if you hold temporary resident status. Confirm your eligibility before making any property decisions.
Real estate professionals: Ensure your foreign client screening processes reflect the extended timeline and the exemptions that apply.
Zagdim Analysis
Zagdim believes the extension signals that Australian policymakers view foreign investment in established housing as a factor worth addressing for a longer period than originally planned. The scope of exemptions—new builds, off-the-plan, development property—remains unchanged, which means foreign capital for new housing supply is still welcome.
For anyone weighing an Australian property purchase from abroad, the extension to 30 June 2029 sets the planning horizon for the next three years. Established homes remain off the table for most foreign buyers, but new builds, off-the-plan property, and development land are still open routes, subject to approval. Understanding which category you fall into is the first step. Have questions? We can help you clarify your situation and next steps — start here.
References: Australian Taxation Office – Banning Foreign Purchases of Established Dwellings / Australian Government – 2026–27 Budget Paper No. 2 / realestate.com.au – Government Extends Foreign Buyer Ban on Established Homes / Reuters – Australia to Put Two-Year Ban on Foreigners Buying Existing Homes / The Guardian – Coverage of Foreign Purchases of Established Homes Policy
This article is based on officially verified sources current as of July 2026. Requirements change frequently. Always confirm your specific situation with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) or a licensed adviser or solicitor before making property decisions.
