Electricians are among the most in-demand trades in Australia, with hourly rates ranging from $80 to $120 depending on location and specialisation. Most electricians charge a call-out fee of $80-$150 on top of their hourly rate, which covers travel time and the first 30 minutes of work.
Common electrical jobs range from simple powerpoint installations ($150-$250 each) to major projects like full house rewiring ($8,000-$15,000) and solar panel installation ($4,000-$8,000 for a 6.6kW system).
This guide covers the cost of every common electrical job in Australia, so you can budget accurately and avoid being overcharged.
Electrical Cost Breakdown — 2026 Pricing
| Item | Low | High | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hourly Rate | $80 | $120 | /hr |
| Call-Out Fee | $80 | $150 | flat rate |
| Powerpoint Installation | $150 | $250 | /each |
| Switchboard Upgrade | $1,500 | $3,500 | total |
| LED Downlight Install | $80 | $150 | /each |
| Ceiling Fan Install | $200 | $400 | /each |
| Smoke Alarm (hardwired) | $100 | $200 | /each |
| Full House Rewire | $8,000 | $15,000 | total |
| EV Charger Install | $1,500 | $3,000 | total |
| Solar System (6.6kW) | $4,000 | $8,000 | total |
| After-Hours Rate | $120 | $180 | /hr |
| Emergency Call-Out | $200 | $350 | flat rate |
What Affects the Cost?
Time of Service
Standard business hours (7am-5pm weekdays) are cheapest. After-hours adds 50% surcharge. Emergency weekend/night call-outs can double the rate.
Job Complexity
Simple jobs like powerpoint installation are quick and affordable. Complex jobs like switchboard upgrades or rewiring require more time, materials, and expertise.
Access Difficulty
Working in tight roof spaces, under floors, or in multi-storey buildings adds time and cost. Older homes with limited access can increase labour by 30-50%.
Location
Metropolitan electricians charge $80-$120/hr. Regional areas may be $70-$100/hr but with higher call-out fees due to travel distance.
Licencing Requirements
All electrical work in Australia must be done by a licensed electrician. Check your state's register: NSW Fair Trading, VBA (VIC), QBCC (QLD), etc.
Cost by City — 2026
| City | Price Range | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Sydney | $90 – $130/hr | Highest rates nationally |
| Melbourne | $85 – $120/hr | Competitive market |
| Brisbane | $80 – $115/hr | Growing demand |
| Perth | $85 – $125/hr | Mining sector competition |
| Adelaide | $75 – $110/hr | Most affordable capital |
| Gold Coast | $80 – $120/hr | Seasonal demand |
Expert Tips
Always check your electrician's licence on your state's register
Get a fixed quote for defined jobs rather than hourly rate
Ask for a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) for all completed work
Bundle multiple small jobs into one visit to save on call-out fees
Consider upgrading your switchboard if it still has ceramic fuses
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an electrician charge per hour in Australia?
An electrician in Australia charges $80-$120 per hour during standard business hours. After-hours rates are $120-$180/hr, and emergency call-outs on weekends or nights can cost $200-$350 for the call-out fee alone.
How much does it cost to install a powerpoint?
Installing a new powerpoint costs $150-$250 per point, including materials. The cost depends on the location, whether new wiring needs to be run, and the type of powerpoint (single, double, USB, outdoor).
How much does a switchboard upgrade cost?
A switchboard upgrade costs $1,500-$3,500 depending on the size of the board and number of circuits. This is essential for homes with old ceramic fuses and is often required before adding solar, EV chargers, or air conditioning.
Do I need a licensed electrician for all electrical work?
Yes, all electrical work in Australia must be performed by a licensed electrician. DIY electrical work is illegal and dangerous. The only exception is changing light bulbs and plugging in appliances.
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