A bathroom renovation is one of the most impactful home improvements you can make, both for daily living and property value. The average cost for a standard bathroom renovation in Australia is $15,000 to $25,000, though budget refreshes can start from $8,000 and luxury renovations can exceed $40,000.
The scope of work is the biggest cost driver: are you doing a cosmetic refresh (new tiles and fixtures) or a full strip-and-rebuild? Moving plumbing is the single most expensive change, adding $2,000-$5,000 to the total cost.
This guide breaks down every component cost so you can plan your budget and compare quotes accurately.
General Cost Breakdown — 2026 Pricing
| Item | Low | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget Refresh | $8,000 | $15,000 | total |
| Standard Renovation | $15,000 | $25,000 | total |
| Premium Renovation | $25,000 | $40,000 | total |
| Luxury Renovation | $40,000 | $70,000 | total |
| Demolition & Removal | $1,000 | $2,500 | total |
| Waterproofing (AS 3740) | $1,000 | $2,500 | total |
| Tiling (floor + walls) | $3,000 | $8,000 | total |
| Plumbing | $2,000 | $6,000 | total |
| Electrical | $1,000 | $2,500 | total |
| Vanity + Basin | $500 | $3,000 | each |
| Toilet | $300 | $1,500 | each |
| Shower Screen | $500 | $2,000 | each |
What Affects the Cost?
Scope of Work
A cosmetic refresh (new tiles, fixtures, paint) costs $8,000-$15,000. A full strip-and-rebuild with same layout is $15,000-$25,000. Changing the layout adds $5,000-$10,000.
Bathroom Size
A small ensuite (3-4m²) costs less than a large family bathroom (8-12m²), but the per-m² cost is actually higher for smaller bathrooms due to fixed costs like plumbing and waterproofing.
Plumbing Changes
Keeping plumbing in the same location saves $2,000-$5,000. Moving the toilet is the most expensive change as it requires modifying the sewer connection.
Tile Selection
Tiles range from $25/m² (basic ceramic) to $200+/m² (natural stone or designer tiles). The tile cost is typically 15-20% of the total renovation budget.
Fixtures Quality
Budget fixtures start from $500 for a full set. Mid-range is $2,000-$4,000. Premium brands like Caroma, Reece, or imported European fixtures can exceed $10,000.
Waterproofing
Mandatory under AS 3740. Costs $1,000-$2,500 depending on bathroom size. Never skip this — failed waterproofing causes structural damage costing $20,000+ to repair.
Cost by City — 2026
| City | Price Range | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Sydney | $18,000 – $30,000 | Highest labour and material costs |
| Melbourne | $16,000 – $28,000 | Competitive market |
| Brisbane | $14,000 – $24,000 | Growing demand |
| Perth | $15,000 – $26,000 | Tradesperson shortage |
| Adelaide | $13,000 – $22,000 | Most affordable capital |
| Gold Coast | $15,000 – $25,000 | High-end finishes popular |
Expert Tips
Get at least 3 quotes from licensed bathroom renovators
Check waterproofing certification — ask for a compliance certificate
Keep plumbing in the same location to save $2,000-$5,000
Budget 10-15% contingency for unexpected issues behind walls
Choose tiles before getting quotes — tile cost significantly affects total price
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a bathroom renovation cost in Australia?
A bathroom renovation in Australia costs between $8,000 and $40,000+ depending on scope. A budget refresh is $8,000-$15,000, a standard full renovation is $15,000-$25,000, and a premium renovation with high-end finishes is $25,000-$40,000.
How long does a bathroom renovation take?
A standard bathroom renovation takes 3-6 weeks from demolition to completion. Budget refreshes may take 2-3 weeks, while complex renovations with layout changes can take 6-8 weeks. Waterproofing alone requires 2-3 days for application and curing.
Do I need a permit for a bathroom renovation?
In most states, you don't need a building permit for a like-for-like bathroom renovation. However, if you're changing the layout, adding a new bathroom, or modifying structural elements, you'll likely need council approval.
What is the most expensive part of a bathroom renovation?
Tiling and plumbing are typically the two most expensive components, each accounting for 20-25% of the total cost. If you're changing the layout, plumbing relocation becomes the single biggest expense.
Can I renovate a bathroom for under $10,000?
Yes, a budget bathroom refresh can be done for $8,000-$10,000 if you keep the existing layout, choose affordable tiles and fixtures, and handle some cosmetic work yourself. However, you should never DIY waterproofing or plumbing.
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