14 Mar 2017 North Central Review (Kilmore), Melbourne (General News) MEMBER for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes and Member for Yan Yean Danielle Green have welcomed a decision to abolish stamp duty for first home buyers in Mitchell Shire. Under changes announced by the state government, first home buyers will have stamp duty waived on homes valued up to $600,000, which is a saving of up to $15,535. Ms Green said the government was determined to tackle housing affordability head on. These changes will enormously assist first home buyers in places like Wallan make the great Australian dream a reality, Ms Green said. Those buying a home in Mitchell Shire valued between $600,000 and $750,000 will also be eligible for a concession, applied on a sliding scale. The exemption and concession will apply to both new and established homes which I genuinely believe will help hundreds of people in Mitchell Shire get their foot in the door. Ms Symes said in a further move to help first home buyers, the government will also remove off-the-plan stamp duty concessions on investment properties. It means the off-the-plan stamp duty concession will now be available solely for those who intend to live in the property or who are eligible for the first home buyer stamp duty concession, she said. In the past, if you worked hard and saved enough, you could afford to buy your own home. Now, thats getting harder and harder and we believe our plan will help more Victorians break into the housing market. Licensed by Copyright Agency. You may only copy or communicate this work with a licence