Single parent home loans
Home Loans for Single Parents
Buying or refinancing on one income is harder, but not out of reach. Eligible single parents may buy with a 2% deposit under a government scheme, and some lenders count more of your income than others. We compare options from a panel of 40+ lenders.
Buying with 2%
The single parent deposit option.
Source: firsthomebuyers.gov.au, checked 12 Nov 2026.
Who it’s for
The Australian Government 5% Deposit Scheme includes a place for single parents and legal guardians of at least one dependent child. Eligible applicants may buy with a minimum 2% deposit, and the government backing means no lenders mortgage insurance.
The main rules
- You’re single, at least 18, and an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
- You apply on your own, with no joint applications.
- You’ll live in the home. Investment properties aren’t eligible.
- You won’t hold any other property interest once the new home settles.
- The price is at or below the price cap for the area.
- The loan term is up to 30 years.
Since 1 October 2025 there are no income caps and no waiting list. You still need to meet the lender’s own credit policy.
The trade-off
A 2% deposit means borrowing 98% of the price, so you pay interest on a bigger loan. You’ll also need money for stamp duty, legal costs and moving. Check duty with our stamp duty calculator.
Your income
How lenders count one income.
Government payments and child support
Some lenders may count Family Tax Benefit Part A and B, and some may count child support, as income. Others count part of it, or only while your children are under a certain age. Which lender you choose can change how much you can borrow.
Part-time, casual and overtime
Many single parents work part-time or casual hours. Some lenders count casual and overtime income in full, others only part, or only after a set time in the job. Our YTD income calculator shows your annualised income the way many lenders check it.
Childcare and living costs
Lenders look at what it costs to run your household, including childcare. Our budget planner helps you see what’s left each month before you apply.
After a separation
If you’re keeping the family home, the lender assesses whether you can afford the loan on your own income. A refinance in your name alone is a new application, so we check lender policy first.
Questions
Common questions, straight answers.
Can a single parent buy a house with a 2% deposit?
Possibly. Under the Australian Government 5% Deposit Scheme, eligible single parents or legal guardians of at least one dependent child may buy with a minimum 2% deposit and no lenders mortgage insurance. You must apply on your own, live in the home, and the price must be at or below the area’s cap. Source: firsthomebuyers.gov.au, checked 12 Nov 2026.
Do I need to be a first home buyer?
The scheme’s single parent rules say you can’t have any other property interest once your new home settles, rather than requiring you to be a first home buyer. Confirm your eligibility with a participating lender.
Is there an income cap?
Since 1 October 2025, the scheme has no income caps. Lenders still assess whether you can afford the loan.
Does Family Tax Benefit count as income for a home loan?
Some lenders may count Family Tax Benefit Part A and B, and some may count child support, as part of your income. Rules differ, including how the age of your children affects it, so we compare how lenders would treat your income.
Am I single if I’m separated?
Under the scheme’s rules, if you’re separated but not divorced, you’re not considered single. A property settlement can also affect your application, so mention it early.
Can I refinance as a single parent after a separation?
Possibly. If you’re taking over a joint home loan, the lender assesses whether you can afford it on your own income. Some lenders count more types of income than others.
Talk through your options as a single parent.
No obligation. No pressure. Just honest answers.
We don’t charge you for our service. Lenders pay us a commission if you go ahead with a loan.