How Much Does property renovation and refurbishment Cost in Australia?
property renovation and refurbishment costs vary significantly across Australia depending on your state, the complexity of the work, and local market conditions. Typical building rates range from $80–$160/hr nationally. Use this guide to understand what to expect, how to compare quotes, and find verified local specialists near you.
property renovation and refurbishment Cost Guide Australia 2026
The following pricing is based on national industry averages. Costs may be 10–20% higher in capital cities (Sydney, Melbourne) and lower in regional areas. Always get 2–3 written quotes before committing to any building work.
National Average
$80–$160
/hr
Emergency / After-Hours
$240
Estimated peak rate
Quotes Recommended
2–3
Before any work begins
property renovation and refurbishment Availability by State
NSW
983
listed
VIC
976
listed
QLD
555
listed
WA
361
listed
SA
333
listed
ACT
126
listed
TAS
102
listed
NT
47
listed
Prices are estimates only and may change without notice. Verify current pricing directly with your chosen contractor.
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Building Licensing Requirements in Australia
Licensing requirements vary by state. Always verify your contractor holds the correct licence for your location.
Victoria
In Victoria, builders must be registered with the Victorian Building Authority (VBA). Work over $10,000 requires a Major Domestic Building Contract.
New South Wales
In NSW, builders must hold a contractor licence from NSW Fair Trading. Home building work over $20,000 requires home building compensation insurance.
Queensland
In Queensland, builders must hold a QBCC licence. Contracts over $3,300 must be in writing with mandatory cooling-off periods.
Western Australia
In WA, builders must be registered with the Building Services Board. A home indemnity insurance is required for work over $20,000.
South Australia
In SA, builders must be licensed through CBS. A written contract is required for work over $12,000.
Tasmania
In Tasmania, building practitioners must be registered under the Building Act 2016.
Australian Capital Territory
In the ACT, builders must hold an appropriate licence from the ACT Planning and Land Authority.
Northern Territory
In the NT, builders must be licensed with NT Build. Owner-builder permits are available for work under $12,000.
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property renovation and refurbishment: Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a home extension cost in Australia?
A single-storey extension typically costs $2,000–$3,500 per m². A 40m² addition runs $80,000–$140,000 including structural work, roofing, cladding, and fit-out. Two-storey additions cost more due to engineering and structural complexity. Always get a fixed-price contract rather than a cost-plus arrangement.
Do I need council approval for a home extension?
Yes in most cases. Extensions that change the building's footprint, height, or floor area require a building permit and often a planning permit. Some minor works fall under 'exempt development' thresholds — these vary by state and council. Your builder or building designer can advise what approvals apply to your project.
What is the difference between a builder and an architect?
An architect designs the building and may project-manage, but doesn't do physical construction. A builder constructs the project to approved plans. A building designer (draftsperson) produces plans without an architect's full qualification. For most residential projects, a building designer plus licensed builder is sufficient and more cost-effective.
How long does a granny flat take to build in Australia?
A standard prefabricated or modular granny flat takes 12–20 weeks from approval to completion. Traditionally-built granny flats take 16–26 weeks. The approval process (council or CDC) takes 4–10 weeks before construction can begin. Total time from concept to move-in is typically 6–12 months.
What should a building contract include?
A compliant building contract must include: fixed price or schedule of rates, scope of works, start and completion dates, progress payment schedule, insurance details, the builder's licence number, variation process, and dispute resolution procedure. Never pay more than 10% deposit in most states.
How do I check if a builder is licensed in Australia?
Each state has its own licensing authority: VBA (VIC), NSW Fair Trading (NSW), QBCC (QLD), Consumer and Business Services (SA), Building Commission (WA). Search their online licence registers using the builder's name or licence number. Always verify before signing any contract.
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