Formally challenge a decision to reject or revoke a grant.
If you disagree with a decision about the First Home Owner Grant (FHOG), you can lodge a formal objection.
This process allows you to challenge the legal basis for decisions such as:
- refusing to pay the FHOG
- reversing or varying a previous decision
- having to repay the FHOG
- imposing a penalty.
Lodging an objection
Your written objection must be lodged with us within 60 days after the date of the notice of the decision.
Your objection must:
- be in writing
- clearly identify the decision you are objecting to and your reasons for disputing it
- include documents that support your reasons, like utility bills or insurance policies showing you lived at the property.
Late objections
If you miss the 60-day deadline, you must write to us to request permission to lodge a late objection.
Your request must explain the delay, and include any relevant supporting documentation.
A person independent of the original decision-maker will assess your request. They consider the information you provide as well as other information available to us.
We will advise you in writing and provide reasons if we reject the request.
Objection decisions
Your objection will be reviewed by a person independent of the original decision-maker.
They will decide using the information you provide and other sources such as the Australian Taxation Office.
We will notify you of the outcome in writing. If your objection is unsuccessful we will provide reasons for our decision.
You can request that we refer your case to VCAT within 60 days of receiving our decision on your objection. You can also appeal if we have not made a decision within 90 days of receiving your objection (excluding any period of suspension).
Payment pending a decision
We will not demand payment while your objection is under review. However, interest will accrue on any unpaid amount.
If your objection is unsuccessful, you must pay the outstanding FHOG amount and penalty (if any) as well as the accrued interest.
Dispute resolution
While your objection is being reviewed, we are open to resolving disputes through informal negotiation. This can help resolve issues earlier and with minimal costs to all parties.
