FIRB
This page provides information for foreign investors.
The Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) examines proposals by foreign interests to undertake direct investment in Australia and makes recommendations to the Government under its foreign investment policy. For detailed information go to the Australian Government FIRB website
Residential real estate means all Australian residential land and housing other than commercial properties (such as, offices, factories, warehouses, hotels, restaurants and shops) and rural properties (that is, land that is used wholly and exclusively for carrying on a substantial business of primary production). Acquisitions of ‘hobby farms’ and ‘rural residential’ blocks by foreign interests are considered to be residential real estate.
The Australian Government seeks to ensure that foreign investment in residential real estate increases the supply of dwellings and is not speculative in nature. The policy seeks to channel foreign investment in the housing sector into activity that directly increases the supply of new housing (that is, new developments such as house and land, home units and townhouses) and brings benefits to the local building industry and its suppliers.
For further information go to the Australian Government FIRB website
Acquisitions requiring notification — eligibility criteria
If you are eligible for approval under the policy, then the acquisition will be approved subject to legally binding conditions according to the category of property. Go to the FIRB eligibility criteria
How to apply for acquisition of Australian Real Estate
For information on how to apply (including application forms), please see the FIRB website and How to Apply.
Useful links for foreign investors
- Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) – if you are considering immigrating to Australia
- Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC)
- Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) – promotes competition and fair trade in the market place to benefit consumers
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