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How much does concreting cost? [2026]

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Last updated May 2026 · 6 min read

Average concreting cost in Australia

Concreting in Australia typically costs $75 to $150 per square metre for standard finishes, while decorative concrete can range from $120 to $200+ per m². Concrete itself usually costs between $400 and $450 per cubic metre, depending on the mix strength, delivery and location.

The total cost of concreting depends on several factors, including the type of finish, site access, slab thickness, and whether preparation or removal work is required.

Concrete is widely used for construction projects, including house and shed slabs, driveways, patios, pool surrounds, and footpaths thanks to its durability, low maintenance and long lifespan. While upfront costs can seem high, it often delivers strong long-term value compared to other materials.

In this guide, you’ll discover:

Average concreting costs per m² and per m³
Pricing for common projects like driveways and slabs
Key factors that affect the total cost
How to get accurate quotes from local concreters, and more.

Want to find a concreter in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide or Perth?

Concreting cost per hour

Concreters in Australia typically charge between $70 and $120 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the scope of the job.

Labour costs can vary based on factors such as site access, preparation work, and whether specialised equipment is required. While hourly rates provide a rough guide, most concreting jobs are quoted as a total project cost rather than purely by the hour.

Professional concreters often use machinery such as mixers, pumps, and finishing tools to improve efficiency. This allows jobs to be completed faster, which can help reduce overall labour costs.

For smaller jobs or repairs, hourly rates may apply, but for larger projects like driveways or slabs, expect a fixed quote based on size and materials.

You might like: Concrete cutting cost guide or Concrete removal cost guide

Concrete prices by type of concrete

Concreting costs in Australia generally range from $75 to $150 per square metre for standard finishes, with decorative options costing more depending on the design and materials used.

While concrete is sometimes priced per cubic metre, most residential projects are quoted per square metre, making it easier to estimate total costs.

Average concrete prices per m2:

Concrete type	Average concrete cost per m2
Spray-on concrete	$50–$75
Plain grey concrete	$80–$130
Coloured concrete	$90–$140, depending on pigment type and finish
Reinforced concrete	$100–$140
Exposed aggregate concrete	$120–$160
Decorative stencilled concrete	$150–$200+
Polished concrete	$100–$300+, depending on the level of grind and finish
Cleaning and resealing dirty concrete	$15–$30

These costs include standard materials and labour. For exact pricing, always obtain a personalised quote from a licensed concreter.

Decorative concrete typically costs more than plain finishes due to additional labour, materials, and design work. Options like exposed aggregate or stencilled concrete can significantly enhance the appearance of driveways, patios, and pool areas.

To estimate your total cost, multiply the length by the width (in metres) to calculate the area in square metres, then apply the relevant cost range.

What is decorative concrete?

Decorative concrete enhances the look of surfaces while maintaining the strength and durability of standard concrete. It’s a popular choice for outdoor areas because it combines style with low maintenance.

Common types of decorative concrete include:

Coloured Concrete: Adds a splash of colour to outdoor areas such as driveways and pathways while remaining durable.
Exposed Aggregate Concrete: Also known as pebblecrete, this option is ideal for high-traffic areas and is highly resistant to weather and wear.
Stamped Concrete: Patterns like brick, tiles, or stone are pressed into freshly poured concrete, giving patios and pool areas a textured, premium look.
Stencilled Concrete: Uses stencils to create intricate patterns, offering a stylish finish that’s easier to apply than stamped concrete.

These decorative options allow homeowners and builders to personalise concrete surfaces, combining aesthetic appeal with long-lasting performance.

Curious about the cost of concrete resurfacing? Find out what you can expect to pay.

Concrete slab prices

The cost of a concrete slab in Australia depends on its type, size, location, and site complexity. On average, standard residential slabs cost between $70 and $100 per m², while broader projects can reach up to $120 per m².

Factors affecting slab cost

Purpose: garage, house, shed, or driveway
Site access: flat and easy-to-reach sites cost less
Slab thickness: thicker slabs require more concrete
Site conditions: slopes, drainage, or difficult terrain may increase labour and equipment costs

For example:

Small shed slab (6 × 9 m): approximately $3,780–$5,400
Large shed slab (12 × 13 m): approximately $10,920–$15,600

Additional site works, machinery such as concrete pumps, or specialised finishes can affect the final cost, so always request a detailed quote from a licensed concreter.

How much does a concrete patio cost?

The cost of a concrete patio depends on the size, type of concrete, and any decorative finishes. On average, a standard 16 m² patio costs between $1,120 and $1,600.

Typical pricing per m²:

Polished concrete: $70–$100 per m²
Decorative concrete (coloured, exposed aggregate, stencilled): $100–$200+ per m²

These prices include materials and labour but don’t account for additional site works, drainage, or machinery like concrete pumps. For the most accurate estimate, request a detailed quote from a licensed concreter.

How much for a concrete driveway?

The cost of a concrete driveway in Australia typically ranges from $80 to $130 per m² for standard plain concrete, and $100 to $200 per m² for decorative options.

Plain grey concrete: $80–$130 per m²
- A 60 m² driveway would cost approximately $4,800–$7,800.

Decorative concrete (stencilled, coloured, or exposed aggregate): $100–$200 per m²
- The same 60 m² driveway could cost $6,000–$12,000 depending on the finish and complexity.

Additional factors affecting cost:

Earthworks and soil removal: Can add $500–$1,000 depending on site conditions
Site access and slope: Steep or hard-to-reach sites may require a concrete pump, adding $500–$750

These estimates include labour and materials but don’t cover extra features such as drainage, edging, or specialised finishes. For the most accurate pricing, always request a detailed quote from a licensed concreter.

Want to find a concreter in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide or Perth?

What influences the total concrete price?

The total cost of your concreting project depends on several factors, including:

Site conditions and access: Steep, uneven, or hard-to-reach sites can increase labour and equipment costs.
Excavation and earthworks: Removing or levelling soil adds to the project cost.
Specialist machinery: Concrete pumps or other equipment can raise expenses.
Traffic management: High-traffic locations may require traffic control measures.
Drainage or plumbing: Projects that include drainage or plumbing installation cost more.
Council permits: Local regulations may require permits, adding to the overall price.
Type of concrete: Premium options like exposed aggregate or coloured concrete are more expensive than plain grey concrete.

Larger concreting jobs often reduce the cost per square metre, similar to bulk buying. The more concrete you need, the lower the unit price, making bigger areas more cost-effective.

Getting a concrete quote

Once you know the typical concreting costs, the next step is to get accurate quotes from licensed, insured local concreters.

When requesting a quote, include:

Project type: driveway, house slab, decorative concrete, pool surround, or shed
Concrete type: plain grey, coloured, exposed aggregate, or resurfacing
Other factors: area size (m²/m³), site slope, access, drainage/plumbing needs, or whether concrete cutting or removal is required

For the best comparison, request at least three quotes. Providing detailed information helps ensure the quote reflects the true cost of your project.

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.

Frequently Asked Questions: Concrete Cost

How much is concrete per m3?

Concrete cost per m3 ranges between $400 to $450, but in some cases such as decorative concrete it can cost as much as $550 per m3, while labour costs average $70 per hour.

How long for concrete to set?

Concrete hardens quickly, but make sure you don’t walk on it for at least 24 hours. It’s recommended that you don’t drive your car on a new concrete driveway for at least one month as fresh concrete is not ready to sustain heavy weight for this period.

Why does the cost of concreting decrease for larger projects?

For larger projects, such as driveways or slabs, the cost per square metre often decreases. This is because larger quantities of concrete can be sourced and applied more efficiently, similar to the savings from bulk purchasing.

How can I save on concreting costs?

To save on concreting costs, ensure your site is easily accessible and as level as possible. Avoiding the need for specialty machinery, such as concrete pumps, and limiting earthworks can also help keep costs down.

Are permits needed for concreting projects?

In some areas, council permits may be required for concreting projects, particularly for larger jobs or those affecting public spaces. Always check your local regulations before starting the project.

How do I calculate the cost of a concrete slab?

The cost of a concrete slab is typically calculated by multiplying the area (in square metres) by the cost per square metre. For example, a 40m² slab at $70 per m² would cost around $2,800. Keep in mind that the total price may increase depending on factors like slab thickness and additional services such as earthworks or drainage.

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