The Shoalhaven stretches from Berry and Shoalhaven Heads to Ulladulla and beyond. It's home to a growing population, major defence bases, and some of the most beautiful beaches on the NSW coast. Here's what buyers should know.
Who buys in the Shoalhaven
- First home buyers priced out of Sydney and the Illawarra
- Defence personnel at HMAS Albatross and nearby facilities
- Sea changers and retirees
- Holiday home buyers around Jervis Bay, Ulladulla and Mollymook
Government schemes
The Shoalhaven generally falls under "rest of NSW" settings:
- 5% Deposit Scheme: cap of $800,000. Confirm by postcode at firsthomebuyers.gov.au.
- Stamp duty: no duty for first home buyers up to $800,000
- First Home Owner Grant: $10,000 for new homes up to $600,000, or land and build up to $750,000
Defence members
Eligible ADF members may access the Defence Home Ownership Assistance Scheme (DHOAS), which provides a subsidy on home loan interest through approved providers. Check your eligibility with Defence and compare the DHOAS provider loans with other options. You can also use the 5% Deposit Scheme and state concessions if eligible.
Defence postings mean moves are common. Consider whether you'll rent the property out later, and the loan structure that suits that.
Flood and bushfire risk
Parts of the Shoalhaven, especially low-lying areas near the Shoalhaven River, are flood-prone. Bushfire risk applies in many bushland areas. Check council maps and get insurance quotes before buying.
New estates
New estates around Nowra and Worrigee may suit first home buyers and the First Home Owner Grant. Check builder track records and the total cost including site works.
Holiday homes
Jervis Bay and the southern beaches are popular for holiday homes and short-stay rentals. Lenders treat these as investment or second-home lending. See holiday home finance.
Frequently asked questions
Is Nowra considered regional for first home buyer schemes?
Yes. It's generally under the "rest of state" cap. Check your postcode.
Can defence members use the 5% Deposit Scheme?
Yes, if eligible. DHOAS may also be available.
Do lenders restrict lending in the Shoalhaven?
Most mainstream lenders lend normally. Acreage and some property types may have limits.
Buying in the Shoalhaven? Call Finfident on 0424 545 654. We're local to the South Coast and happy to help.
This article is general information only and doesn't take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Figures, rates and scheme rules are current as at October 2026 and can change. Finfident Finance Brokers (ABN 94 679 280 801) is Credit Representative 569374 of Outsource Financial Pty Ltd (ACN 131 090 705), Australian Credit Licence 384324.