Question 1

How much does a house renovation cost in Australia?

Accepted Answer

A cosmetic renovation (paint, flooring, fixtures) costs $1,000-$2,000 per square metre. A structural renovation (walls, plumbing, electrical) costs $2,000-$4,000+ per square metre. A full kitchen renovation runs $15,000-$50,000+ and a bathroom $10,000-$35,000+ depending on size and finishes.

Question 2

What renovation adds the most value to a property in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Kitchen and bathroom renovations typically deliver the highest return on investment. A well-executed kitchen renovation can return 50-100% of the cost in added property value. Adding a bedroom, updating the facade, or improving outdoor living areas also add strong value in Australian markets.

Question 3

Do I need council approval for renovations in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Minor cosmetic work (painting, replacing fixtures, new flooring) usually does not require council approval. Structural changes, extensions, plumbing or electrical work, and changes to the building footprint typically require a Development Application (DA) or Complying Development Certificate (CDC). Rules vary by council and state.

Renovation type	Budget (per m²)	Mid-range	Premium
Cosmetic refresh	$200 – $400	$400 – $700	$700 – $1,200
Mid-range renovation	$600 – $1,000	$1,000 – $1,600	$1,600 – $2,500
Full gut renovation	$1,400 – $2,000	$2,000 – $3,500	$3,500 – $6,000+

Room	Budget	Mid-range	Premium
Bathroom	$8,000 – $15,000	$15,000 – $28,000	$28,000 – $60,000
Kitchen	$12,000 – $20,000	$20,000 – $45,000	$45,000 – $100,000+
Laundry	$4,000 – $8,000	$8,000 – $15,000	$15,000 – $25,000

Property Renovation Cost Calculator

Average renovation costs in Australia (2025–26)

Specific room costs (national average)

Key costs people forget to budget for

How to get the most accurate estimate