DHOAS
Defence Home OWNERSHIP ASSISTANCE SCHEME
What is DHOAS?
The Defence Home Ownership Assistance Scheme (DHOAS) is a subsidy and home loan scheme available for current and former Australian Defence Force members. It is designed to assist ADF members and their families in repaying their defence home loan and achieve homeownership easier. To be eligible, you must have:
- Served on or after 1 July 2008
- Completed a qualifying period of service and accrued sufficient entitlement
- Served in the ADF within the last two years
How much you're entitled to is calculated as a percentage of the average house price, and split into three tiers based on service length. These are:
- 40% of the AHP at Tier 1
- 60% of the AHP at Tier 2
- 80% of the AHP at Tier 3 - maximum benefit!
If you're eligible, taking advantage of this scheme is one of the best things you can do for your property investment. Talk to our property investment coaches today and learn how you can make the most of your ADF housing benefits.
DHOAS Subsidy and Defence Home Loan Conditions
| Subsidy Tier | Minimum Permanent Service | Minimum Reserve Service | Subsidised Loan Amount | Maximum Monthly Subsidy* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 4 years | 8 years | $310,937 | Up to $187 |
2 | 8 years | 12 years | $466,406 | Up to $281 |
3 | 12 years | 16 years | $621,874 | Up to $375 |
As at 1 July 2021, the AHP is $777,343.
This figure is used to determine the 2021-22 subsidy tier values.
*Estimated monthly subsidy values based on the July 2021 median interest rate. These monthly subsidy values fluctuate based on changes in the median interest rate.
Like any good thing, there are a few conditions attached. Firstly, the loan must only be used for buying a home, buying land, building a home, renovating or extending your home, or refinancing a loan for one of these purposes. Second, you and your family must have occupied your home for at least 12 months. Those are the main conditions, but a complete list can be found on the DHOAS Website.*
Lump Sum Advance Option
Under certain circumstances, you may be eligible to have your subsidy paid out as a lump sum. If you have accrued sufficient entitlement you can convert up to four years of your service into a lump sum payment.
This equates to $187 per month x y years [48 months] = $8,976.
This can be especially useful if you're looking to fast track your housing investment, but will only be applicable in some situations.
Pro Tip for couples
If you have both served more than 8 years, you can get the subsidy for a loan up to $932,812 (2 x $466,406) and received a monthly allowance of $562 (2 x $281). Now that is a massive chunk off your monthly repayments!!
DHOAS Home Loan Providers
Defence and DHOAS loans are different from typical home loans in that you must apply for one through one of three approved providers.
There are a range of DHOAS Loans available from the three providers, making it easy to find one that suits your needs. Additionally, many defence home loans have low rates and are quite flexible. If you're not sure which one is right for your needs, Axon's property coaches can help you choose.
Bringing It All Together
Axon Property Group is dedicated to helping ADF members and their families get started in property investing. We take you from absolute zero to expert, giving you the knowledge and tools to succeed in property investing.
We can help you understand your defence home ownership assistance scheme loan entitlements and give you the best possible start with a defence home loan.
Start by watching our FREE ADF PROPERTY TRAINING!
