How much does a retaining wall cost? [2025]

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Retaining Wall Cost Guide – Australia 2025

Wondering about retaining wall costs? The cost of a retaining wall typically ranges from $150 to $850 per square metre, depending on the materials used and the wall’s size.

Installing a retaining wall can be essential for maintaining the structural integrity of your property. Whether you own an older home or a modern one, a well-built retaining wall enhances safety, functionality, and aesthetics in your garden, backyard, or even within your home’s footprint.

Retaining wall builders use various materials, including sandstone, timber sleepers, natural stone, concrete sleepers, and precast concrete blocks. The retaining wall price varies based on the material choice, design complexity, and site conditions.

Curious about what’s involved? We’ve gathered the key details on:

Retaining wall cost breakdown
Different materials and their prices
Key factors influencing retaining wall costs
How to get an accurate retaining wall quote
Tips for hiring a reliable retaining wall builder, and more.

Find out everything you need to know before building your retaining wall.

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Retaining wall cost per m2

How much does a retaining wall cost? The cost of a retaining wall is determined by the material, wall size, and labour. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere between $5,500 to $10,000 or more to have a retaining wall built.

Below is a breakdown of retaining wall costs per square metre for different materials:

Retaining Wall Material	Cost per Square Metre
Treated Pine	$250 – $450
Treated Timber Sleepers/Hardwood	$400 – $650
Sandstone Retaining Wall	$350 – $700
Reinforced Concrete Blocks	$480 – $700
Concrete Besser Blocks	$550 – $850

Choosing the Right Retaining Wall Material

While retaining wall blocks tend to be more expensive, they are highly durable and long-lasting. On the other hand, timber retaining walls are a more affordable option but come with a shorter lifespan and lower structural integrity.

Although materials like concrete, brick, stone, and treated hardwood timber sleepers may require a higher upfront investment, their longevity and strength make them a worthwhile choice in the long run. The best material for your retaining wall will depend on your budget, the look you want to achieve, and the functional needs of your space.

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Retaining wall price by material

The cost of a retaining wall depends largely on the materials used. Generally, retaining wall block prices are higher than timber options due to their durability and longevity. Below is a breakdown of different retaining wall materials and their estimated costs.

Timber Retaining Wall Cost

Timber retaining walls are a popular and cost-effective choice, commonly built using treated pine, hardwood, or railway sleepers. While they offer a natural and attractive look, they have a shorter lifespan compared to other materials.

Estimated costs:

Treated pine: $250 – $450 per square metre
Hardwood or timber sleepers: $400 – $650 per square metre

Timber sleepers typically last around 20 years, but they are prone to rot and can deteriorate faster in extreme weather conditions.

Concrete Retaining Wall Cost

For superior strength and durability, concrete retaining walls are an excellent choice. They are available in a variety of styles, including plain concrete, textured block finishes, and timber-look designs.

Unlike timber walls, concrete sleeper retaining walls use galvanised steel posts, making them structurally more sound.

Estimated costs:

Reinforced concrete blocks: $480 – $700 per square metre
Concrete Besser blocks: $550 – $850 per square metre

Sandstone Retaining Wall Cost

Sandstone is a visually appealing and natural material for retaining walls. However, installation can be more time-consuming, as finding the right stone shapes to fit together requires additional labour.

Estimated costs:

Sandstone blocks: $350 – $700 per square metre
Stone veneers: $150 – $250 per square metre (one of the most affordable retaining wall options)

Brick Retaining Wall Cost

Brick retaining walls are a great option, especially for DIY projects. However, it’s essential to check with your local council to ensure compliance before starting construction.

Estimated cost: $250 – $650 per square metre

Retaining Wall Block Prices

Block retaining walls come in various styles, including heron blocks, natural impression blocks, and standard link blocks. When built with proper drainage, backfill, and a solid foundation, block walls are both visually appealing and structurally sound.

While they tend to be more expensive, they offer long-term durability and can even be used to create landscape steps.

Estimated cost: Starting from $450 per square metre

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What determines the cost of a retaining wall?

The cost of a retaining wall is influenced by several factors, including the wall’s size, design complexity, and choice of materials. More intricate designs or premium materials will increase the retaining wall price, while additional structural requirements can also impact the overall expense.

Key Factors Affecting Retaining Wall Costs

Several elements contribute to the final retaining wall cost:

Excavation, drainage, and backfill – Additional groundwork can increase labour and material costs.
Site accessibility – Limited access may require specialised equipment or manual labour, raising the retaining wall costs.
Design complexity – Features like curves, decorative finishes, or custom designs will add to the price.
Council permits – Depending on your location, approval may be required, adding extra fees.
Labour costs – Prices vary by region and depend on the project’s duration.

For retaining walls exceeding one metre in height, you may also need to hire a structural engineer, which typically costs $120 to $180 per hour.

Considering these factors will help you get an accurate retaining wall quote and budget accordingly.

What is a retaining wall?

A retaining wall is a structural barrier designed to hold back soil and prevent erosion, keeping the land stable and secure. While primarily built for functional purposes, many homeowners also use retaining walls as a landscaping feature to enhance their outdoor space.

If your property is on a sloping or uneven block, a retaining wall may be necessary to support the soil and create a level surface. This is especially important when installing a pool, garden area, or play space for children.

In regions prone to heavy rainfall or flooding, retaining walls help manage water runoff and prevent soil displacement, protecting your property from erosion and drainage issues.

How long does it take to build a retaining wall?

Most retaining walls can be built in a day or two, but the exact timeframe depends on several factors. For a more accurate estimate, it’s best to request a retaining wall quote from a local builder.

The time required for construction is generally determined by the size of the wall, measured in square metres. However, other factors can impact the timeline, including:

Sloping terrain – A retaining wall on uneven ground may require extra preparation and excavation.
Site access – Limited access for materials and equipment can slow down the process.
Wall size and complexity – Larger or more intricate designs take longer to complete than small garden bed walls.

For a small retaining wall or a basic garden bed wall, construction may take just a few hours. However, larger retaining walls on expansive properties may require several days or even weeks to complete.

Getting a retaining wall quote

Still wondering how much does a retaining wall cost? To get an accurate idea, it’s best to compare at least three retaining wall quotes from builders in your local area. This will give you a clearer picture of the overall price and help you choose the right professional for the job.

When selecting a builder, ask to see a portfolio of their previous projects, request references, and ensure they are licensed and insured. Most states and territories require that a licensed builder handle the construction of your retaining wall for safety and legal reasons.

It’s important to hire a highly recommended builder, landscaper, or bricklayer who has a solid reputation and experience with retaining wall construction. Scheduling an onsite consultation will allow the builder to provide a detailed and itemised retaining wall quote, including the cost of materials and labour.

To get started, contact a local retaining wall builder to discuss your project. Whether you’re looking to enhance your yard’s aesthetic or need a wall for structural support, there are plenty of design and material options available to suit your needs.

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*All costs and prices quoted were sourced at the time this cost guide was written and should only be used as an estimate.

Summary

Retaining Wall Costs in Australia: A Quick Overview

The cost of building a retaining wall in Australia varies based on materials, size, and complexity. Here’s a concise breakdown:

Cost per Square Metre:

Treated Pine: $250 – $450
Timber Sleepers/Hardwood: $400 – $650
Sandstone: $350 – $700
Reinforced Concrete Blocks: $480 – $700
Concrete Besser Blocks: $550 – $850

Key Considerations:

Material Choice: Impacts durability and aesthetics.
Wall Size: Larger walls require more materials and labour.
Design Complexity: Intricate designs can increase costs.
Site Conditions: Difficult terrains may raise expenses.

Retaining wall cost FAQ

How much does a retaining wall cost?

The cost of a retaining wall varies depending on the material, size, and complexity. On average, you can expect to pay between $250 to $850 per square metre, depending on whether you choose timber, concrete, sandstone, or brick.

How much does a small retaining wall cost?

For a simple, small retaining wall, the cost can be as low as $140 per square metre, with total costs potentially under $1,000 depending on the size and material used.

What factors affect the cost of a retaining wall?

Several factors influence the cost of a retaining wall, including the material chosen, the height and size of the wall, site accessibility, and whether additional work like excavation or drainage is needed. Complex designs, such as curves or custom features, can also raise the price.

Do retaining walls add value?

Retaining walls might cost a few thousand to install, but they can drastically improve the livable space of your home, which has the potential to add tremendous value to your property.

Can I build a retaining wall myself?

While DIY retaining walls are possible, it’s crucial to consider the complexity of the project and your skill level. Many people opt to hire a professional for larger or more intricate walls, as improper construction can lead to structural issues or water runoff problems.

How long does it take to build a retaining wall?

The time required depends on the size and complexity of the wall. Most retaining walls take 1 to 2 days to complete, but larger projects or those requiring excavation may take longer.

Do I need a permit to build a retaining wall?

In many areas, a permit is required, especially if the retaining wall is over 1 metre in height. Check with your local council for specific regulations in your region.

What materials are used for retaining walls?

Common materials for retaining walls include timber (treated pine, hardwood, or railway sleepers), concrete blocks, Besser blocks, sandstone, and brick. Each material has different costs, durability, and aesthetic qualities.

How long will a timber retaining wall last?

Timber retaining walls typically have a lifespan of around 20 years, but they may require maintenance to prevent issues like rot, especially in wet conditions.

Will a retaining wall help with drainage?

Yes, retaining walls can help manage water runoff and prevent erosion, especially in areas prone to heavy rainfall. Proper drainage systems, such as weep holes or backfill, can ensure water flows correctly and doesn't damage the wall or surrounding areas.

What is the cheapest retaining wall option?

The cheapest retaining wall options are typically made from timber or stone veneers. Timber retaining walls, such as those made from treated pine, can cost around $250 to $450 per square metre, while stone veneers are a more affordable choice, ranging from $150 to $250 per square metre.