Buying on the Gold Coast as a Kiwi

FIRB, stamp duty and what you actually need to know

If you are moving from New Zealand to the Gold Coast, buying property in Australia is very achievable.
However, the rules for Kiwis are often misunderstood, especially around FIRB approval and stamp duty.

This guide explains how it really works in Queensland, what applies to New Zealand citizens, and where people most commonly get it wrong.

Can Kiwis buy property in Australia

Yes. New Zealand citizens who enter Australia on a Special Category Visa subclass 444 are allowed to buy property in Australia.

In Queensland, this is significantly simpler than in some other states.

Key points for Kiwis buying in Queensland

  • You can buy an established home to live in

  • You do not need FIRB approval once you are living in Australia

  • You are treated differently to other foreign buyers

This is one of the reasons many New Zealanders choose Queensland over NSW or Victoria.

What is FIRB and does it apply to Kiwis

Important nuance
If you are buying before you arrive in Australia, or you are not yet considered an ordinarily resident, FIRB may still apply.
This is where personalised advice matters.

FIRB is the Foreign Investment Review Board.


It assesses whether foreign nationals need approval to purchase Australian property.

For most New Zealand citizens in Queensland

  • FIRB approval is not required if you are living in Australia

  • You can buy an established dwelling as your home

  • You are not restricted to new builds only

This is a major advantage compared to other visa holders.

Stamp duty in Queensland for New Zealand citizens

Queensland does not apply the additional foreign buyer surcharge that exists in NSW and Victoria.

For Kiwis buying on a 444 visa

  • You pay standard Queensland stamp duty

  • No additional foreign purchaser duty

  • First home concessions may apply if eligible

This can represent a saving of tens of thousands of dollars compared to buying in NSW.

Buying before you move vs buying after you arrive

This is one of the biggest decision points for Kiwi buyers.

Buying after arrival

  • Generally simpler

  • FIRB usually not required

  • Easier finance approval

  • Clear residency status

Buying before arrival

  • May trigger FIRB requirements

  • Lenders may apply stricter conditions

  • Timing and settlement planning become critical

There is no single right answer, but the structure matters.

Finance and lending considerations for Kiwis

Most major Australian banks lend to New Zealand citizens, but policies vary.

Common factors lenders assess

  • Length of time living in Australia

  • Employment type and stability

  • Australian income vs NZ income

  • Deposit size

Getting lending advice early avoids costly delays once you find the right property.

Common mistakes Kiwi buyers make

These are the issues I see most often

  • Assuming FIRB rules are the same in every state

  • Relying on outdated advice from friends or forums

  • Not aligning visa status, finance and timing

  • Buying without understanding local suburb dynamics

Queensland is more Kiwi-friendly than many people realise, but details matter.

How I help Kiwi buyers navigate this properly

I work with New Zealand buyers relocating to the Gold Coast every week.
My role is not legal or financial advice, but practical coordination.

That includes

  • Structuring the timing of your purchase

  • Flagging FIRB and duty considerations early

  • Connecting you with the right professionals

  • Helping you buy confidently, not cautiously

If you want clarity specific to your situation, it is worth having a conversation early rather than fixing mistakes later.

Related guides for Kiwi buyers

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Each guide is designed to answer the questions that actually stop people from moving forward.