Can you use your KiwiSaver to buy your first home in Australia?
Short answer: Yes you can, but you need to know more…
We’re always being asked if you can use your KiwiSaver with the Australian Government’s First Home Super Saver scheme (FHSS)? The good news? Yes, you can! As long as you meet the criteria set out by the ATO. It’s not exactly straightforward, but we’re here to help explain it all.
How do I use my KiwiSaver for FHSS?
To use your KiwiSaver savings for FHSS, you’ll first need to transfer your KiwiSaver to an Australian APRA regulated superannuation fund that accepts KiwiSaver, like First Super. If you’ve transferred your Australian super or KiwiSaver back and forth over the ditch before, it gets a little more complicated. You can read more on that here.
Can I use my Australian super account savings for FHSS?
If you are working in Australia and receiving super contributions, you will be subject to the same eligibility rules and regulations around FHSS as any Australian. This means only voluntary contributions (before or after tax) made by you to your super fund can be used as part of the FHSS scheme.
How much can I use towards FHSS?
The maximum voluntary contribution you can put towards the FHSS scheme is $15,000 in any one financial year. The total amount you are allowed to contribute is $30,000 per person* (voluntary contributions and or KiwiSaver).
If you are buying a house with a partner, together you can withdraw up to $60,000 before tax in voluntary contributions.
*This limit is set to rise to $50,000 per person and $100,000 per couple under the Australian Government proposals on 1 July 2022.
Why Join First Super?
If you are living and working in Australia, but still have a KiwiSaver account in New Zealand, transferring your money to an Australian fund that accepts KiwiSaver amounts – like First Super – can help you save on fees and tax.
First Super is one of only a few APRA regulated Australian super funds that accepts KiwiSaver. They have a history of delivering strong investment returns to their members. They’re a profit-for-members industry super fund, which means they put their members first with everything they do.
Issued by First Super Pty Limited (ABN 42 053 498 472, AFSL 223988) as Trustee of First Super (ABN 56 286 625 181).
Past returns are not an indicator of future returns.
This document contains general advice which has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider whether the advice is appropriate for you and read the Product Disclosure Statement before making any investment decisions. To obtain a copy of the PDS or Target Market Determination please contact First Super on 1300 360 988 or visit our website at firstsuper.com.au/pds.
