Inquiry into Home Buyer Concession Scheme Administration - Legislative Assembly for the Australian Capital Territory - August 2025
Overview
In August 2025, The Salvation Army provided a submission to the to Standing Committee on Public Accounts and Administration (the Committee) on the Inquiry into the Home Buyer Concession Scheme Administration (the Inquiry) in the ACT. Our submission outlines the difficulties faced by individuals repaying debts to the ACT Revenue Office, particularly those dealing with financial hardship, complex life circumstances, and limited access to support. Drawing on our experience in financial counselling, the submission advocates for more compassionate and tailored approaches to debt management and concession assessment.
Key points
Challenges with self-assessment: The eligibility criteria for the Home Buyer Concession Scheme are complex and can be difficult to interpret. Individuals facing financial stress or other life circumstances may struggle to accurately assess their eligibility. The Salvation Army recommends that the ACT Revenue Office offer proactive assessments before property purchase to reduce the risk of future debt.
Improved communication and appeals: Debt reassessment processes should be redesigned to minimise distress and confusion. Sudden debt notifications can lead to disengagement and emotional strain. The submission calls for clearer communication, fairer appeal processes, and flexible repayment options that reflect individual circumstances.
Access to support services: Between The Salvation Army’s Moneycare and CareFCS as the two leading providers of financial counselling in the ACT, it was found that only one community member engaged with financial counselling support for managing a debt arising from reassessment of the Home Buyer Concession Scheme. This indicates a need for better identification of financial stress and stronger referral pathways. The submission recommends embedding financial counselling referrals and improving public awareness of available support.