How much does a concrete driveway cost? [2025]
Index
Concrete Driveway Cost Guide – 2025
Concrete driveway cost in Australia typically ranges between $110 and $130 per square metre, depending on the type of concrete used. If you opt for decorative finishes like coloured, stencilled, or exposed aggregate concrete, prices can reach up to $200 per square metre.
Several factors influence concrete driveway costs, including the type of concrete, driveway size, site conditions, and location. If your property has a sloping block, expect to pay around $10 per square metre more than for a flat installation.
On average, a small plain concrete driveway may cost $1,650 to $3,500, while a large decorative driveway could cost up to $10,500, or more. The total driveway concreting cost depends on the project’s complexity and materials used.
In This Guide, We Cover:
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Concrete driveway cost per m² for different types of concrete
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Factors influencing driveway concrete cost
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How to get accurate driveway quotes
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Hiring a professional concreter for installation, and more.
Want to find a concreter in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide or Perth?
Concrete driveway cost per m²
How much to concrete a driveway? The concrete driveway cost per m² in Australia typically ranges from $110 to $130. If your driveway is on a sloping block, expect to pay an additional $10 per square metre due to the extra labour and materials required.
For those opting for a decorative concrete driveway, such as exposed aggregate, stencilled, or coloured concrete, costs can rise to $120 to $200 per square metre, or more.
Concrete Driveway Price List
Concrete Driveway Type | Cost Per Square Metre |
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Plain Concrete Driveway | $110 to $130 |
Coloured Concrete Driveway | $120 to $180 |
Exposed Aggregate Driveway | $120 to $200 |
Stencilled Concrete Driveway | $120 to $200 |
Stamped Concrete Driveway | $110 to $150 |
How to Estimate Your Driveway Concrete Cost
You can either use an online driveway quote calculator or estimate the cost manually by following these simple steps:
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Measure the length and width of your driveway in metres.
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Multiply the length by the width to find the total square metre area.
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Multiply the total area by the driveway concrete cost per m² to estimate your total driveway cost.
Next, we’ll take a deeper look at the various concrete driveway types and their pricing to help you make an informed decision.
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How much does a plain concrete driveway cost?
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, a plain concrete driveway is a great choice. A plain, grey-coloured concrete driveway offers a hard-wearing and long-lasting solution without the high costs of decorative finishes. Typically, the cost of a plain concrete driveway ranges from $110 to $130 per square metre. The total price will depend on the size of your driveway, and it’s important to note that most councils in Australia require a minimum driveway width of three metres.
How much does a coloured concrete driveway cost per m2?
A coloured concrete driveway adds an extra touch of visual appeal. The price typically ranges from $120 to $180 per square metre. For a coloured driveway, the colour is mixed directly into the cement before installation, ensuring a more durable and long-lasting finish. While it’s more expensive than plain concrete, a coloured concrete driveway offers a more aesthetically pleasing and vibrant look.
If you are considering updating your existing driveway with a coloured finish, there are alternative options such as spray-on concrete or driveway paint.
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Driveway Paint: This is a cheaper DIY option but lacks the durability and longevity of other finishes. It is suitable for those looking for a quick and budget-friendly update, but it will wear down over time.
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Spray-on Concrete: Applied to the surface of your existing driveway, spray-on concrete costs between $75 and $90 per square metre. This option is ideal for refreshing an old driveway, offering a more durable solution than paint and an appealing finish.
Want to find a concreter in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide or Perth?
How much does an exposed aggregate driveway cost per m²?
An exposed aggregate driveway, also known as pebblecrete, is a highly durable and attractive option that’s perfect for homeowners seeking a functional yet stylish surface. Known for its enhanced traction, it’s especially suitable for sloping driveways and regions with wetter climates.
The exposed aggregate driveway cost per m² typically ranges from $120 to $200, depending on factors such as the type of aggregate and the overall size of the driveway. The higher the quality of the aggregate, the more expensive the driveway installation will be.
Once your concrete slab has been poured, the pebblecrete is applied over the top. For an existing driveway, exposed aggregate can be applied over a prepared surface, providing an excellent way to refurbish and enhance the appearance and durability of an older driveway. This option allows you to upgrade your driveway without the need for a full replacement, making it a cost-effective choice for many homeowners.
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How much does a stencilled concrete driveway cost?
The average cost of a stencilled concrete driveway typically ranges between $3,000 and $4,500. Stencilled concrete involves applying a pattern to your driveway’s surface, allowing you to choose from a variety of designs and colours. Working with your concreter, you can explore different stencil patterns and colour options to create a unique look for your driveway.
Many homeowners prefer a natural stone look, which is achieved by applying spray-on concrete over the stencilled pattern. Once the stencil is removed, the concrete appears with grout lines that resemble the spaces between pavers. In some cases, coloured concrete is applied over the stencil instead of spray-on concrete to achieve a similar effect.
The design possibilities with stencilled concrete are endless. You can even incorporate multiple colours to create borders, intricate patterns, or unique designs within your driveway. Because each stencilled concrete driveway is custom-made, it’s important to request driveway quotes from concreters for a more accurate cost estimate.
Typically, the cost of stencilled concrete driveways ranges from $120 to $200 per square metre, depending on factors such as the size of your driveway and the complexity of the design.
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How much does a stamped concrete driveway cost?
Stamped concrete driveways fall on the higher end of the price scale for decorative concrete options. The typical cost for a stamped concrete driveway ranges from $110 to $150 per square metre for a basic pattern, with the average cost sitting at about $120 per square metre. For more intricate designs that incorporate multiple colours, you can expect the price to reach around $200 per square metre.
So, what is concrete stamping? Unlike stencilling, which creates a smooth surface, concrete stamping provides a textured finish that can mimic the look of pavers, bricks, or other materials. The process begins with pouring coloured concrete across the existing slab, followed by the application of a release agent. The concreters then press specially designed stamps into the wet concrete, forming the desired pattern. After allowing the concrete to dry for a few days, they wash the surface and apply a sealer to protect the final result.
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What factors affect concrete driveway cost?
Several factors can influence the total cost of concrete driveway installation. Understanding these elements will help you make informed decisions and manage your budget effectively. Here are the key factors that impact driveway concrete costs:
1. Driveway Size
The larger the driveway, the more concrete you will need, which will directly increase the cost. The total area is a crucial factor when calculating your concrete driveway cost per m².
2. Slope of the Land
If your driveway is on a sloping block, it will require additional work for grading and preparation, which typically adds $10 per square metre to the price. A flat driveway is more straightforward and usually less expensive to install.
3. Preparation Work Required
Driveways often need significant preparation work, such as excavation, leveling, or clearing debris. If your site requires a lot of groundwork, this can increase the overall cost of installation.
4. Decorative Elements
Opting for decorative concrete driveways, such as coloured, stencilled, or exposed aggregate finishes, will increase the cost. These decorative elements are priced separately from the concrete slab and can push the final cost much higher, often ranging from $120 to $200 per square metre.
5. Ease of Access to the Site
The accessibility of the driveway installation site plays a role in the cost. If the area is difficult to reach or requires extra effort to transport materials, the cost of labour and equipment may increase.
6. Labour Rates
Labour costs vary depending on location and the complexity of the project. Areas with higher living costs often have higher labour rates, which can affect the overall price of the installation.
7. Location
Your location in Australia can significantly impact the cost of a concrete driveway. Prices tend to be higher in metropolitan areas due to higher demand and living costs. Additionally, supply chain variations may affect material prices based on your region.
8. Demolition and Removal of Existing Driveway
If you need to remove an old driveway before the new one can be installed, this will add to the cost. The demolition and removal process typically incurs additional charges, which can vary depending on the size and condition of the existing driveway.
Additional Notes:
It’s essential to note that the cost of decorative concrete is added on top of the base cost of the concrete slab for your driveway. Depending on the style you choose, decorative elements can substantially increase the final price of your concrete driveway installation.
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Getting a concrete driveway quote
Want to know exactly how much to concrete a driveway? Before hiring any driveway concreting services, it’s important to compare multiple quotes from concrete contractors in your area. You can easily get multiple free quotes using platforms like Yellow Pages to shop around and understand local market rates.
When requesting concrete driveway quotes, be sure to provide key details such as the size of your driveway, whether your property is on a slope, and if you plan to incorporate any decorative elements like stencilling or stamped concrete. These factors will affect the overall price.
Tips for Hiring a Concreter:
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Check for Licensing and Insurance: Ensure the concreter is licensed (if required in your state) and insured. This protects both you and the contractor in case of any accidents or issues during the job.
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Workmanship Guarantee: Ask whether the concreter offers a warranty or guarantee on their work. This will give you peace of mind that any potential issues will be addressed.
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Review Past Work: Request to see their portfolio of previous projects. If possible, visit past job sites or ask for references to verify the quality of their work.
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Get Multiple Quotes: Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. Comparing at least three quotes can help ensure you’re getting a fair price.
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Experience and Reputation: Look for contractors with experience in concrete driveways, especially if you’re opting for decorative elements. A reputable contractor will have a track record of completing quality work.
It’s crucial to find contractors who can deliver high-quality results rather than opting for the cheapest option. By taking the time to research and vet potential concreters, you can avoid future headaches and ensure a long-lasting, well-installed driveway.
Want to find a concreter in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide or Perth?
*All costs and prices quoted were sourced at the time this cost guide was written and should only be used as an estimate.
Summary
Concrete Driveway Cost Guide: Key Takeaways
In Australia, the cost of installing a concrete driveway varies based on the type of concrete, driveway size, site conditions, and location. On average, plain concrete driveways range from $110 to $130 per square metre. For decorative finishes like coloured, stencilled, or exposed aggregate concrete, prices can reach up to $200 per square metre.
Cost Breakdown:
- Plain Concrete Driveway: $110 to $130 per m²
- Coloured Concrete Driveway: $120 to $180 per m²
- Exposed Aggregate Driveway: $120 to $200 per m²
- Stencilled Concrete Driveway: $120 to $200 per m²
- Stamped Concrete Driveway: $110 to $150 per m²
Additional factors influencing costs include driveway size, slope, and site access. For instance, a sloping block may add approximately $10 per square metre due to extra labour and materials required.
Estimating Your Driveway Cost:
- Measure the length and width of your driveway in metres.
- Multiply the length by the width to find the total square metre area.
- Multiply the total area by the driveway concrete cost per m² to estimate your total driveway cost.
FAQ: Concrete Driveway Cost
How much does it cost to concrete a driveway in Australia?
The cost to concrete a driveway typically ranges from $110 to $130 per square metre for a plain concrete driveway. Decorative options like stencilled, stamped, or exposed aggregate driveways can cost significantly more, with prices reaching up to $200 per square metre for complex designs.
Is a concrete driveway worth it?
Driveway concreting is a very popular choice because it is both durable and strong without the need for much maintenance. Concrete typically lasts longer than both cheaper and more expensive driveway materials, such as gravel or brick.
Can I apply decorative concrete to an existing driveway?
Yes, you can apply decorative concrete, such as spray-on concrete or exposed aggregate, to an existing driveway, provided the surface is in good condition and has been properly prepared. This is a great option for refreshing an old driveway without replacing it entirely.
What is the most affordable type of concrete driveway?
A plain concrete driveway is the most affordable option, typically costing between $110 and $130 per square metre. It provides a durable and low-maintenance surface but lacks the decorative appeal of other options.
Can I install a concrete driveway myself to save on costs?
While it is possible to install a concrete driveway yourself, it is not recommended unless you have experience in concrete work. DIY installations may result in uneven surfaces, cracks, or poor aesthetics. Hiring a professional ensures a smooth and durable driveway that will last longer.
How long will my concrete driveway last?
With proper maintenance, a concrete driveway can last 20 to 30 years or more. Regular cleaning and sealing every few years can help maintain its durability and appearance. The longevity of your driveway also depends on the quality of the installation and the type of concrete used.
Are there any additional costs for a sloping driveway?
Yes, sloping driveways generally cost more to install, adding about $10 per square metre to the overall price. The additional cost covers the extra work involved in ensuring proper drainage and stability on a slope.
What is the best type of concrete driveway for a wet climate?
For wet climates, exposed aggregate concrete is a great choice. The textured surface provides better traction, reducing the risk of slipping. Additionally, it’s more durable and can handle the wear and tear caused by moisture over time.
How long does it take to install a concrete driveway?
The installation time for a concrete driveway typically takes around 3 to 7 days, depending on the size of the driveway, the type of concrete, and the complexity of the project. However, it’s important to allow time for the concrete to fully cure, which can take up to 28 days.
Do I need to seal my concrete driveway?
Yes, it is highly recommended to seal your concrete driveway to protect it from stains, weather damage, and cracking. Sealing helps maintain its appearance and prolongs its lifespan. Most concrete driveways should be sealed every 2 to 3 years.