How Much Does It Cost to Paint a House – Painting a house in Australia in 2025 involves several cost factors, including property size, location, surface condition, and paint type. Homeowners are now looking for accurate estimates before starting renovation or improvement projects, especially as painting rates have slightly increased due to higher material and labour costs. Understanding the average painting cost per square metre, room, or entire house helps Australian residents budget more efficiently. This comprehensive guide explains how much it costs to paint a house in Australia, covering price breakdowns by home size, type, and key influencing factors for 2025.
Average House Painting Cost in Australia 2025
The average cost to paint a house in Australia in 2025 ranges between $25 to $45 per square metre for interior work, and $30 to $60 per square metre for exterior painting. These rates vary depending on paint quality, surface preparation, and accessibility. Australian painters generally charge more for multi-storey properties due to added labour and scaffolding costs. For a standard 3-bedroom house, Australians can expect to spend anywhere from $6,000 to $12,000 depending on whether it’s a full repaint or a light refresh. Choosing local, certified professionals ensures durable finishes that can withstand Australia’s climate.
Painting Cost by House Size Across Australia
Painting costs across Australia depend heavily on the total surface area. Small apartments or single-storey homes are generally more affordable to repaint, while larger properties require more paint and labour hours. On average, a small 1-bedroom unit may cost around $2,000 to $3,500, while a large 5-bedroom home may exceed $15,000 in total expenses. Professional painters often include prep work, undercoating, and clean-up in their quotes. For accurate budgeting, homeowners should request itemised quotes that outline paint type, primer use, and per-metre pricing.
| House Size | Estimated Painting Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| 1-Bedroom Unit | $2,000 – $3,500 |
| 2-Bedroom Apartment | $3,000 – $5,000 |
| 3-Bedroom House | $6,000 – $12,000 |
| 4-Bedroom House | $9,000 – $14,000 |
| 5-Bedroom House | $12,000 – $18,000+ |
Labour and Material Costs for Australian Homeowners
For Australian homeowners, labour typically accounts for 60–70% of total painting costs. Professional painters in 2025 charge between $40 and $70 per hour, depending on experience and location. Paint material costs range from $60 to $150 per 10-litre can for premium brands such as Dulux or Taubmans. Some painters include paint and materials in their total estimate, while others may charge separately. Factors like ceiling height, trims, or textured walls can increase final costs, so it’s essential for homeowners to confirm inclusions before hiring contractors.
Exterior Painting Prices for Australian Properties
Exterior painting for Australian homes is often more expensive due to weather exposure, surface preparation, and safety considerations. On average, it costs between $5,000 and $15,000 to repaint the exterior of a standard suburban home. Weatherboard and brick houses require different preparation methods—weatherboards need sanding and sealing, while brick surfaces may need power washing and special primers. Using UV-resistant and weatherproof paints ensures long-lasting results, especially for coastal Australian properties exposed to salt and humidity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much does it cost to paint a 3-bedroom house in Australia?
The average cost to paint a 3-bedroom house in Australia ranges from $6,000 to $12,000 depending on surface condition and paint quality.
2. Do painters provide paint, or do homeowners need to buy it?
Most Australian painters include paint and materials in their quotes, but it’s best to confirm this before starting the job.
3. How long does it take to paint a house in Australia?
It usually takes 5 to 10 days to complete a full house painting project depending on house size and weather conditions.
4. What type of paint lasts longest in Australian weather?
High-quality acrylic and weatherproof paints from brands like Dulux or Taubmans typically offer the best durability in Australia’s climate.
