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Velocity Legal

Level 43, 80 Collins Street, North Tower, Melbourne VIC 3000

Level 10, 580 George Street, Sydney NSW 2000

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Stamp Duty

Stamp Duty

Stamp duty, also known as land transfer duty, applies to a wide range of property and transaction arrangements and can significantly affect the overall cost of a deal. Understanding how duty applies can help manage exposure and avoid unexpected liabilities.

We help:

  • Understand when stamp duty may apply to a transaction or transfer
  • Identify exemptions, concessions, or relief that may be available
  • Approach property and transactional decisions with greater clarity around duty outcomes
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4.9
85 Google Reviews
Award Winning Law Firm – Top Specialist Firm & Top Boutique Firm (Australasian Lawyer)

First class advice, service, and communication. I have had the pleasure of working with Velocity Legal for many years across a range of challenging matters and they never fail to impress.

Grant F

Their meticulous attention to detail, unwavering professionalism and strategic approach have delivered an outstanding result. Their level of service is nothing short of impressive.

Jack C

From the initial consultation to the final resolution, they provided exceptional
service and achieved an outstanding result for our case.

Wan Li

We are an accounting firm that works closely with Velocity Legal on all our client's legal matters… Every client who works with their team is delighted and impressed by the clear advice, efficient communication, and seamless process.

Selina L

I highly recommend the team at Velocity Legal. They are extremely knowledgeable, professional, have an eye for detail and their work ethic is second to none.

Mark P

They provided so much support and guidance through the process and I felt like they genuinely cared about getting the right outcome for me. They obviously know their stuff but were able to explain things in a simple and clear way.

Natalie F

Approachable, honest, professional and transparent. An absolute pleasure to work with.

Bob W

4.9
85 Google Reviews
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We Understand What You Are Going Through

Stamp duty issues often arise during property transactions, restructures, or changes in ownership, where timing and cost considerations are critical. You may be unsure how duty has been assessed, whether relief applies, or how the transaction structure affects the outcome.

These matters can feel complex, particularly where arrangements involve trusts, companies, partnerships, or related parties. Differences between state-based rules and administrative practices can add further uncertainty.

We understand how challenging stamp duty issues can be. We help you work through how duty applies in your circumstances in a clear and practical way, so decisions are informed and defensible.

Our Services Include

  • Advising on stamp duty implications of property and business transactions
  • Advising on dutiable transactions involving land, shares, and interests in land
  • Assessing eligibility for stamp duty exemptions, concessions, and relief
  • Advising on stamp duty implications of restructures and ownership changes
  • Supporting negotiations and engagement with state revenue authorities
  • Advising and representing clients in stamp duty disputes and reassessments

Our Difference

Accountability & Expertise

Every matter we handle comes with full accountability. You’ll deal directly with an expert – every time, no exceptions.

In Your Shoes

Understanding your unique circumstances and goals - so our advice is practical, personal, and never given in a vacuum.

Transparency & Communication

We speak your language. That means plain, clear advice - what’s happening, why it matters, and what comes next.

50+
Australian Based Team
4,000+
Matters Expertly Handled
10+
Awards & Industry Recognition

Our Process

  1. Book Meeting
    Fill in the contact form below or call our office to book an initial consult. You can choose between in-person or video conference.
  2. Get Advice

    You’ll discuss your situation in depth with a senior lawyer. This includes exploring your requirements, goals, and desired outcomes. You’ll walk away from this meeting with a clear understanding of the next steps.
  3. Achieve Outcomes

    Our legal team will work tirelessly to achieve your desired objectives. We work hard, communicate regularly, and pride ourselves on delivering results.
Book a Consult

Take the First Step Today

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Book an initial consult with our expert legal team and get clear answers about your situation.

  • Transparent quotes (no ‘bill shock’)
  • Rapid response
  • Award winning team
Andrew Henshaw
Managing Director
Award Winning Law Firm – Top Specialist Firm & Top Boutique Firm (Australasian Lawyer)

Our Directors

Managing Director

Andrew Henshaw

Director

Demian Walton

Director

Greg Thomas

Director

Jennifer Maher

Director

Jess Hill

Director

Rajan Verma

Director

Seamus Ryan

Director

Shannon Hilton

Stamp Duty Lawyers in Melbourne

Stamp duty, known as land transfer duty in Victoria, is a tax imposed on certain transactions involving land and other dutiable property under the Duties Act 2000 (Vic). It applies across a wide range of transactions, including property purchases, business acquisitions involving landholding entities, and certain asset transfers. The amount payable can be significant, and mistakes in how duty is assessed, disclosed, or paid can result in penalties, delays, and additional cost.

Understanding your duty obligations early, and structuring transactions with those obligations in mind, is an important part of managing the overall cost and risk of a transaction. Our stamp duty lawyers can assist with the following:

  • Property transactions: Stamp duty applies to the purchase and transfer of real property in Victoria. Our property solicitors advise on duty obligations, help confirm that duty is correctly assessed, and identify any exemptions or concessions that may be available under the Duties Act 2000 (Vic). We also ensure that contracts and transfer documents are properly executed and lodged with the State Revenue Office.
  • Business transactions: Stamp duty can arise in business transactions where land or interests in landholding entities are involved. This is an area where the duty consequences are not always immediately obvious, and obtaining advice early helps ensure obligations are identified and managed appropriately. Our stamp paper lawyer team advises on whether duty applies, what concessions may be available, and how the transaction can be structured to manage duty exposure.
  • Estate planning and asset transfers: Certain asset transfers attract stamp duty, although exemptions are available in specific estate and family circumstances. We advise on the duty implications of estate planning arrangements and asset transfers, and work with our estate planning team to structure estates efficiently from both a duty and broader tax perspective.

In some circumstances, duty may appear to be assessed more than once, particularly where multiple instruments are used or where sub-sale provisions apply under the Duties Act 2000 (Vic). Our double stamp duty lawyers in Melbourne advise on these situations, assist with reviewing duty assessments, and where appropriate, apply for reassessments or refunds. Careful transaction structuring can also help manage the risk of unintended additional duty arising.

Exemptions, Concessions, and Why Expert Advice Matters

Victorian duty law provides for a range of exemptions and concessions that can significantly reduce the amount payable in certain circumstances. Here is what you can expect when you work with Velocity Legal on stamp duty matters:

  1. Support to minimise stamp duty payments: Our stamp duty lawyers identify legal opportunities to apply available exemptions and concessions, including transfers between family members, certain deceased estate transfers, and specific commercial restructuring transactions.
  2. Assistance to get it right the first time: Even the smallest mistake can result in costly penalties and significant delays. Our legal team reviews contracts and transfer documents to help confirm compliance with relevant legislation and reduce the risk of delays or assessment issues. If something does go awry, we can help to resolve the matter efficiently.
  3. Comprehensive advice for property and dutiable transactions: Whether you are purchasing property, transferring dutiable assets, or restructuring your affairs, we assist in understanding and meeting your obligations under Victorian law.
  4. Integrated tax and duty advice: Our lawyers work closely with our tax team on stamp duty matters, which means duty considerations are assessed alongside the broader tax implications of a transaction — not in isolation.

Let our experienced stamp duty lawyers take care of your transactions for complete peace of mind. Contact our team at Velocity Legal today to arrange an initial consultation. Read Less

Frequently Asked Questions
What is stamp duty?
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Stamp duty, also known as land transfer duty, is a state-based tax imposed on certain transactions, most commonly property transfers. The amount of duty depends on the nature and value of the transaction.
What transactions can attract stamp duty?
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Stamp duty may apply to property transfers, share acquisitions in landholding entities, partnership changes, and certain lease or sub-sale arrangements. The specific rules depend on the state or territory.
Are there exemptions or concessions available?
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Yes. Exemptions or concessions may apply in certain circumstances, such as first home buyers, restructures, or specific transaction types. Eligibility depends on meeting statutory criteria.
Can stamp duty outcomes be reviewed or challenged?
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In some cases, stamp duty assessments may be reviewed or challenged through objection or dispute processes with the relevant state revenue authority.
When should advice be sought on stamp duty?
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Early advice is often important, particularly where transactions involve complex structures or significant value. How a transaction is structured can materially affect stamp duty outcomes.

Take the First
Step Today

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Book an initial consult with our expert legal team and get clear answers about your situation.

  • Transparent quotes (no ‘bill shock’)
  • Rapid response
  • Award winning team
Book Consult
4.9
85 Google Reviews
Award Winning Law Firm – Top Specialist Firm & Top Boutique Firm (Australasian Lawyer)