Buying property in Brisbane from overseas involves a layer of research that a typical local buyer does not need to think about, on top of the usual questions about a suburb and property. This is also one of the areas where getting individual advice matters more than usual, since the rules depend heavily on a buyer’s specific visa and residency status.
Foreign investment approval
Foreign persons, a defined term that covers most people who are not Australian citizens or permanent residents, generally need approval from the Foreign Investment Review Board before acquiring an interest in Australian residential real estate. Applications are made and fees paid through the Australian Taxation Office’s online services for foreign investors.
As at the time of writing, there is a temporary ban on foreign persons, including many temporary residents, purchasing established dwellings in Australia, with limited exceptions such as redevelopments that will add a meaningful number of new dwellings. Temporary residents can generally still apply to buy vacant land or a new or near-new dwelling. Because this is an active area of policy change, the current status and any end date should be checked directly on the official foreign investment website rather than assumed from this article.
Queensland’s additional foreign buyer duty
Separately from the federal approval process, Queensland charges an Additional Foreign Acquirer Duty on top of normal transfer duty when a foreign person acquires residential land in the state. An exemption exists for holders of certain retirement visas buying a principal place of residence. This is administered by the Queensland Revenue Office and is a distinct cost from any federal foreign investment fee.
General area research still applies
Beyond the regulatory side, the same research questions apply as for any buyer choosing an area: transport links, including to Brisbane Airport if that matters for your situation, school catchments if relevant, and local flood or planning overlays. These can be researched using Translink’s journey planner, the Queensland Government’s EdMap tool, and the relevant council’s own planning and flood mapping tools.
What to verify before you act
This article explains the general framework, not your personal eligibility. Foreign investment approval, Queensland’s foreign buyer duty, and any exemptions depend on your specific visa status, residency, and the type of property, and the rules in this area change periodically. Before proceeding, it is worth confirming your position directly with the Foreign Investment Review Board, the Queensland Revenue Office, and a qualified migration agent, conveyancer or solicitor.
Sources
- Australian Government, Foreign investment in Australia, foreigninvestment.gov.au
- Australian Taxation Office, Foreign investment in Australia, ato.gov.au
- Queensland Revenue Office, Additional Foreign Acquirer Duty, qro.qld.gov.au
This article is general information only and is not migration, legal, tax or financial advice. Foreign investment rules change and depend on individual circumstances. Always confirm your current position with the Foreign Investment Review Board, the Queensland Revenue Office, and a qualified professional before making a decision.
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