First Home Super Saver Scheme: Is It Worth It?
Heard about the First Home Super Saver Scheme but not sure if it’s worth the hassle?
You’re not alone. It sounds technical, government-y, and maybe too good to be true.
But at Nude Home Loans, we’ve helped plenty of first home buyers use the FHSSS to boost their deposit faster — and smarter.
Let’s break down what it is, how it works in 2025, and whether it’s the right move for you.
🤔 What Is the FHSSS?
The First Home Super Saver Scheme (FHSSS) lets eligible first home buyers save part of their deposit inside their super fund.
Why would you do that? Because:
Super contributions are taxed at just 15%, instead of your normal income tax rate
This means your savings grow faster and you keep more of what you put in
Then, when you're ready to buy your first home, you can withdraw those savings (plus interest) to put toward your deposit.
🌎 How It Works in 2025
You can contribute up to $15,000 per year (voluntary concessional or non-concessional contributions)
The total withdrawal cap is $50,000 per person
Couples can double that to $100,000 combined
Quick Timeline:
Make voluntary contributions to super (salary sacrifice or after-tax)
Apply to release funds when you’re ready to buy
Use released funds toward your first home deposit
📈 How Much Could You Save?
Let’s say your marginal tax rate is 32.5%. You salary sacrifice $10,000 into super this year:
You save ~$1,750 in tax
That money compounds faster
Add that up over 2–3 years and the FHSSS could help you save $5,000+ extra, compared to using a regular savings account.
🌟 Real Example: Alice & Tom, First Home Buyers in VIC
Both contributed $12,000/year for two years
Saved ~$5,000 in tax between them
Released $48,000 total toward their deposit
Result? Bought a $590k townhouse with 8% deposit, avoided LMI, and used their savings faster than they thought possible.
🔐 Who’s Eligible?
To use the FHSSS, you must:
Be 18 or older
Never owned property in Australia before
Live in the home for at least 6 months in the first year
Not use the funds for investment property
You’ll also need to:
Apply for a release through the ATO
Provide correct contribution records (we help with this!)
❌ When FHSSS Might Not Be Right
You need your deposit within 12 months (release takes time)
Your income is low and tax savings are minimal
Your super fund charges high fees or is underperforming
That’s why strategy matters — and why we always assess it case by case.
🚀 Is It Worth It?
In many cases, yes — especially if you:
Have a stable job
Are 1–3 years away from buying
Want to fast-track your deposit without lifestyle sacrifices
It’s not a silver bullet, but it’s a solid, tax-smart tool that could save you years of saving.
✅ Let’s Find Out If FHSSS Fits Your Plan
Don’t guess. We’ll help you:
Model how much you could save
Understand the timelines and process
Combine FHSSS with grants and low deposit options
👉 [Book a free FHSSS strategy session with Nude Home Loans]
No pressure. Just real advice — from real people who’ve helped others do it too.