TABLE OF CONTENTS
- What is stamp duty and how is it calculated?
- Stamp duty rates for property in SA
- Stamp duty exemptions and concessions
- Stamp duty on vehicles in SA
- Stamp duty rates for non-commercial vehicles
- Stamp duty rates for commercial vehicles
- Special vehicle categories
- 3 steps to calculate stamp duty for cars and property in SA
- Comparison to other states
- Payment of stamp duty
- Environmental considerations
- Keeping records
Here’s everything you need to know about how stamp duty is calculated in SA, the different rates that apply to property and vehicle purchases, as well as any applicable exemptions.
What is stamp duty and how is it calculated?
Stamp duty is a tax payable to the government of South Australia when you buy a property or register a vehicle in your name. The amount of duty you pay is based on the purchase price or the vehicle’s market value, whichever is higher.
Stamp duty payable on property in SA is calculated on a sliding scale according to the property’s purchase price or its market value. The higher the value, the higher the rate of stamp duty payable.
Stamp duty rates for property in SA
| Value of property conveyed | Stamp duty payable |
|---|---|
| Under $12,000 | $1 per every $100 |
| Exceeds $12,000 but not $30,000 | $120 plus $2 per every $100 over $12,000 |
| Exceeds $30,000 but not $50,000 | $480 plus $3 per every $100 over $30,000 |
| Exceeds $50,000 but not $100,000 | $1,080 plus $3.50 per every $100 over $50,000 |
| Exceeds $100,000 but not $200,000 | $2,830 plus $4 per every $100 over $100,000 |
| Exceeds $200,000 but not $250,000 | $6,830 plus $4.25 per every $100 over $200,000 |
| Exceeds $250,000 but not $300,000 | $8,955 plus $4.75 per every $100 over $250,000 |
| Exceeds $300,000 but not $500,000 | $11,330 plus $5 per every $100 over $300,000 |
| Exceeds $500,000 | $21,330 plus $5.50 per every $100 over $500,000 |
Need to calculate stamp duty for your property purchase? Use a reliable online stamp duty calculator or get professional advice so that you are across the total cost involved.
Stamp duty exemptions and concessions
There are some exemptions and concessions on stamp duty, which could be available to you if you meet certain criteria or are in a specific circumstance. These can include:
- Purchasing off-the-plan apartments that meet set criteria.
- Transfers from a deceased estate.
- Some transactions involving domestic partners or spouses.
- Specific exemptions for primary producers.
You’ll want to make sure you confirm your eligibility for any exemptions or concessions with RevenueSA or seek guidance from a financial professional.
Stamp duty on vehicles in SA
Stamp duty is also payable when transferring vehicle ownership. The amount you pay will be based on the vehicle’s value or purchase price (whichever is higher) and is payable alongside the vehicle registration fee.
Stamp duty rates for non-commercial vehicles
| Vehicle value | Stamp duty payable |
|---|---|
| Under $1,000 | $1 per $100 (minimum $5) |
| $1,001 to $2,000 | $10 plus $2 for every $100 over $1,000 |
| $2,001 to $3,000 | $30 plus $3 for every $100 over $2,000 |
| Over $3,000 | $60 plus $4 for every $100 over $3,000 |
Non-commercial vehicles include most passenger cars and motorcycles.
Stamp duty rates for commercial vehicles
Commercial vehicles like commercial vans, dual-cab utes or other vehicles that mainly carry goods or more than eight people can attract different stamp duty rates:
| Vehicle value | Stamp duty payable |
|---|---|
| Under $1,000 | $1 per $100 (minimum $5) |
| $1,001 to $2,000 | $10 plus $2 for every $100 over $1,000 |
| Over $2,000 | $30 plus $3 for every $100 over $2,000 |
Commercial motor vehicle duty rates are usually lower compared to non-commercial vehicles.
Special vehicle categories
Some vehicles have their own special rules for how to pay stamp duty, including:
- Vehicles transferred as part of a deceased estate, which may be exempt.
- Transfers between spouses or domestic partners, which can also be exempt.
- Non-rated vehicles, including some motorcycles and special vehicles, assessed individually based on their market value.
Make sure you clarify any special circumstances by contacting Service SA or speaking with a vehicle stamp duty specialist.
3 steps to calculate stamp duty for cars and property in SA
- Determine whether the vehicle or property is commercial or non-commercial.
- Find the correct duty rates based on the property or vehicle’s market value or purchase price.
- Apply the correct rate and add any registration fees and emergency services levy, if necessary.
Using a dedicated stamp duty calculator will simplify this whole process and help you more accurately budget for your car purchase or property transaction.
Comparison to other states
Stamp duty rates in South Australia differ from those in other states and territories, such as New South Wales or Queensland. These differences include things like variations in the overall cost of property or vehicles, so understanding your state-specific obligations is a must.
For example, vehicles registered in other states might incur different rates, and registration transfers between states can mean you’ll have to pay additional fees and duty.
Payment of stamp duty
Stamp duty is charged as a lump sum and is payable at the time of property settlement or vehicle transfer. For vehicle purchases, this occurs simultaneously with the registration process through Service SA, while property transactions are paid through RevenueSA.
Environmental considerations
For eco-conscious buyers, the government’s Green Vehicle Guide has information on the most fuel-efficient and low-emission vehicles. While SA doesn’t currently offer stamp duty reductions for green vehicles, keeping abreast of government policy changes might provide you with future benefits.
Keeping records
You’ll need to keep good records of all stamp duty payments, as they form part of your financial documentation for tax purposes and future transactions. Make sure your receipts document the exact duty paid and vehicle registration, as well as any other levies or fees.
Stamp duty has a role in determining the full cost of buying property or vehicles in South Australia. Accurately calculating your obligations means you’re not caught off guard by unexpected expenses.
Use a reputable property or car stamp duty calculator and understand all the exemptions and concessions you might be entitled to. If you’re still unsure about how to progress, take the time to find a reputable and professional expert for advice around how to manage this important financial consideration.
