House Painting Costs in Melbourne: A Fair Dinkum Guide
If you’re looking to give your Melbourne home a fresh lick of paint, whether inside or out, costs can vary heaps depending on the job. We’re talking about everything from prepping the surfaces to the final coat. Below, I’ve broken it down into tables for interior and exterior painting, with typical price ranges based on what’s going around in Melbourne in 2025. These are roughies – think averages for a standard three-bedroom weatherboard or brick house around 150-200 square metres. Prices include labour, materials, and GST, but always get a quote tailored to your pad.
I’ve used per square metre rates where possible, as that’s how most tradies charge. For whole-house jobs, totals can add up quick. And remember, factors like the brand of paint (e.g., Dulux or Taubmans premium lines vs budget options) can bump prices up 20-30%, while tricky access or poor wall conditions might add extra for prep work.
Interior House Painting Costs
Interior jobs are usually cheaper than exterior ’cause there’s no weather to worry about. Focus is on walls, ceilings, doors, and trim. Expect 2-3 coats for a top-notch finish.
| Item | Description | Price Range (per sqm unless noted) |
|---|---|---|
| Walls | Basic painting of interior walls, including minor prep. | $25 – $45 |
| Ceilings | Often included with walls; trickier if textured. | $20 – $40 |
| Doors & Trim (e.g., skirting, architraves) | Detailed work around edges and mouldings. | $40 – $70 |
| Full Room (e.g., bedroom) | Walls, ceiling, and trim for a 4x4m room. | $800 – $1,500 total |
| Whole House (3-bed) | Complete interior repaint, assuming average condition. | $5,000 – $15,000 total |
| Hourly Rate (if not sqm-based) | For smaller jobs or touch-ups. | $70 – $100 per hour |
Exterior House Painting Costs
Exterior painting needs weather-resistant paints and more prep, especially with Melbourne’s dodgy weather – think rain and UV fading. Scaffolding might be needed for two-storey homes.
| Item | Description | Price Range (per sqm unless noted) |
|---|---|---|
| Walls | Painting external walls, including weatherproofing. | $30 – $55 |
| Eaves & Fascias | Overhangs and roofline bits. | $35 – $60 |
| Doors & Windows | Exterior trim and frames. | $40 – $70 |
| Full Exterior (single-storey) | Walls, trim, and minor roof elements. | $4,000 – $12,000 total |
| Whole House (3-bed, two-storey) | Complete exterior repaint. | $8,000 – $20,000 total |
| Hourly Rate (if not sqm-based) | For add-ons like fences or decks. | $70 – $100 per hour |
Factors That Can Change the Price
No two jobs are the same, mate. Here’s what might crank up or dial down the costs:
- Paint Brand and Quality: Budget paints (e.g., generic brands) keep it cheap, but premium ones like Dulux WeatherShield or Resene add $5-10 per sqm for better durability and fewer coats. Specialty finishes (e.g., anti-mould for bathrooms) can add 10-20%.
- House Size and Condition: Bigger homes or ones with cracks, peeling paint, or mould need more prep (sanding, filling) – that could add 20-50% to the bill.
- Number of Coats: Standard is 2-3; dark-to-light colour changes might need extras, upping costs by 15%.
- Accessibility: Two-storey or hard-to-reach spots (e.g., steep roofs) mean scaffolding or cherry pickers, adding $1,000-$3,000.
- Location in Melbourne: Inner suburbs might have higher labour rates due to traffic and parking hassles, while outer areas like the Mornington Peninsula could be a bit cheaper but with travel fees.
- Extras: Things like wallpaper removal, feature walls, or eco-friendly low-VOC paints can tack on $500-$2,000.
- Time of Year: Off-peak (winter) might score you a discount, but summer demand pushes prices up.
These figures are ballparks from local Melbourne painters – always shop around for quotes. For a no-obligation chat or quote, give us a bell on 0432 643 039. Cheers!
