Stamp duty, or transfer duty, is a one-time state tax imposed on buyers when they buy a property. The rules around the duty vary across Australia as it is in the hands of state governments. Before you purchase a property or vehicle you should calculate stamp duty. This state revenue tax operates on a sliding scale and is set and charged by the relevant state government. Stamp duties are charged on top of the additional related expenses and the amount you pay will depend on where you live and the value of the property.
The aim of stamp duty is to raise revenue for the government and to discourage property speculation. The rates and rules governing stamp duty vary across jurisdictions.