What Is DHOAS?
A Simple Guide to the Defence Home Ownership Assistance Scheme
If you’re serving — or have served — in the Australian Defence Force (ADF, Navy, Army or Air Force), you may be eligible for DHOAS, the Defence Home Ownership Assistance Scheme. It’s a benefit designed to help current and former ADF members and their families get into the property market sooner, with financial support from the government.
At AMI Home Loans, we’re proud to assist Defence members in accessing their DHOAS entitlements and navigating the home loan process with confidence. Here’s what you need to know:
What Is DHOAS?
DHOAS is a government-backed scheme that helps eligible ADF personnel and veterans buy their own home. It works by providing monthly subsidy payments toward the interest on your home loan, reducing the amount you need to pay out of pocket.
Think of it as home loan assistance for your service — one that continues to support you even after you've left the Defence Force.
How Does DHOAS Work?
The scheme pays a monthly subsidy directly to your participating lender, based on:
Your service history
The loan amount
The current ADF median interest rate (updated quarterly)
The longer you’ve served, the larger your entitlement — and the longer you can receive the benefit. You can use it for:
Buying an established home
Building a new home
Refinancing an existing loan (if switching to a DHOAS loan)
Which Lenders Offer DHOAS Loans?
Only a few lenders are approved under the scheme, and each has its own products, interest rates, and loan conditions. We’ll help you compare your options and find the right DHOAS loan to suit your needs.
Who Is Eligible?
Generally, you may be eligible if:
You’ve completed a qualifying period of service
You’re an active ADF member or separated under honourable conditions
You’ve not already used your full DHOAS entitlement
For full eligibility criteria, visit https://www.dhoas.gov.au/
Can I Use DHOAS With My Partner?
Yes, as long as the loan is in your name and you're living in the home. In most cases, your spouse or partner can be included on the loan application too.
How We Help at AMI Home Loans
We work with current and former ADF members across Australia to:
Explain DHOAS entitlements in plain English
Compare participating lender options
Handle the paperwork and application process
Structure your loan so you get the maximum benefit
And remember — our service is completely free. We’re paid by the lender when your loan settles.