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Checked 5 October 2026

Tasmania: foreign buyer surcharge

FIDS is 8% of the foreign person’s share of the dutiable value of residential property, in addition to ordinary duty.

  • Duty surchargeForeign investor duty surcharge (FIDS): 8% since 1 April 2020
  • Earlier rates3% from 1 July 2018 to 31 March 2020
  • Land tax surchargeForeign investor land tax surcharge (FILTS): 2% of assessed land value (on land acquired on or after 1 July 2022)
  • Land tax detailNo threshold — can apply even when ordinary land tax does not.
  • Revenue officeState Revenue Office Tasmania

Who is a foreign buyer in Tasmania

Tasmania sets its own definition, which is separate from the federal FIRB test.

  • Temporary residents: Foreign.
  • Permanent residents: Not foreign.
  • New Zealand citizens: Not foreign if you hold a Special Category visa.
  • Australian citizens: not foreign.

If your status changes

Yes — if you cease to be foreign within 6 months of the transaction. If you become foreign within 3 years, the duty is reassessed.

Buying with a spouse or partner

Exempt if you buy a property with an existing dwelling in equal shares with a spouse, significant-relationship partner or caring partner who is not foreign, and it becomes your home within 6 months. For vacant land you build on within 2 years, a refund is available on application.

Land tax surcharge

Foreign investor land tax surcharge (FILTS): 2% of assessed land value, on land acquired on or after 1 July 2022. No threshold — can apply even when ordinary land tax does not.

Check before you sign

State rules change often, and the surcharge is assessed on your own facts. Confirm with State Revenue Office Tasmania or a conveyancer before you sign.

Frequently asked questions

How much is the foreign buyer surcharge in Tasmania?

8% of the dutiable value of the foreign person’s share of residential property, on top of ordinary transfer duty. FIDS is 8% of the foreign person’s share of the dutiable value of residential property, in addition to ordinary duty.

Can I get the surcharge back in Tasmania?

Yes — if you cease to be foreign within 6 months of the transaction. If you become foreign within 3 years, the duty is reassessed.

Does Tasmania have a land tax surcharge for foreign owners?

Yes. Foreign investor land tax surcharge (FILTS): 2% of assessed land value. No threshold — can apply even when ordinary land tax does not.

Sources

Checked 5 October 2026.

firbapproval.com.au is an independent guide. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by or connected to the Foreign Investment Review Board, the Australian Treasury or the Australian Taxation Office. We do not lodge or process applications. Applications are made to the ATO. General information only, not legal, tax, migration or financial advice.