How much do electricians charge per hour?

How much does an electrician cost? The cost of hiring an electrician in Australia typically ranges from $80 to $140 per hour, depending on factors like experience, job complexity, and location. Whether you’re planning a renovation, upgrading your home’s wiring, or need urgent repairs, understanding electrician rates can help you budget effectively.

Labour costs vary based on the type of work required, with more specialised or high-risk jobs often attracting higher fees. In addition to hourly rates, electricians may charge call-out fees, material costs, and additional labour for complex installations.

Hiring a licensed electrician is crucial not only for ensuring quality workmanship but also for meeting Australian safety standards and legal requirements.

In this electrician cost guide, we explore:

• Electrician hourly rates
• The average electrician call out fee
• Estimates for various electrical services
• Getting an electrical quote, and more.

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Electrician cost per hour

How much do electricians charge per hour? Most electricians charge an hourly rate along with a flat service fee or call-out fee. The call-out fee typically ranges from $50 to $140, while the average hourly rate for an electrician falls between $70 and $95.

Electricians usually bill in 15-minute increments, ensuring you’re only charged for the time spent on the job. If an electrician doesn’t apply a separate call-out fee, the first hour of work may be charged at a higher rate to cover travel and setup costs.

Understanding these pricing structures can help you budget accurately and avoid unexpected costs when hiring an electrician.

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Average electrician call out fee

An electrician call out fee typically ranges from $50 to $140, which is added to the total labour cost. This fee covers expenses such as travel, inspection, and preparation time before starting the job.

For minor tasks, some electricians may only charge the call-out fee without additional labour costs. To avoid misunderstandings or unexpected charges, always request a written quote that clearly outlines the call-out fee and any other associated costs. This ensures transparency and helps prevent disputes over pricing.

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Electrical pricing for different jobs

If you’re planning electrical work, it’s essential to understand the costs associated with different services. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay for common electrical jobs in Australia.

Powerpoint Installation Cost

Installing a new power point typically costs between $140 and $180 per outlet, with the average price around $150. This includes both labour and materials.

Safety Switch Installation Cost

The cost to install a safety switch ranges from $85 to $200. However, if your home has an older switchboard that requires upgrading or replacement, you could pay anywhere from $500 to $1,200.

Safety switches are vital for protecting your household from electrical faults, power surges, and damaged wiring.

Hard-Wired Smoke Alarm Installation Cost

Electricians charge an average of $150 per smoke alarm installation. More complex installations may cost extra, depending on accessibility and wiring requirements.

LED Lighting Installation Cost

• Indoor LED light installation: $60 to $75 per light
• Outdoor lighting installation: $75 to $90 per hour

Ducted Heating Installation Cost

For ducted heating installation, an air conditioning and electrical expert will generally charge between $5,000 and $10,000, covering both the system and installation. The total cost depends on the size of the system and the time required for installation. Smaller systems tend to be more cost-effective than larger setups.

Home automation system installation Cost

Installing a home automation system can cost anywhere from $20,000 to $100,000, depending on the size of your property and the level of automation required.

• Small home (3 bedrooms) – Around $20,000
• Larger properties – Typically between $50,000 and $100,000 for a fully integrated system

A professional home automation installation includes the automation of various electrical components, such as:

• Lighting
• Heating and air conditioning
• Ventilation
• Security systems
• Smart appliances

Beyond improving convenience and energy efficiency, a smart home system can increase your property’s value. To get an accurate cost estimate, it’s best to compare multiple quotes from licensed and experienced electricians.

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Installing electrical wiring and connections

If you’re planning a kitchen renovation or any major home upgrade, hiring a licensed electrician is essential to ensure safe and compliant wiring and appliance connections. Electrical work in kitchens often involves installing power points, lighting, circuit breakers, and dedicated wiring for high-powered appliances such as ovens and dishwashers.

Cost of Electrical Wiring Installation

The cost of installing electrical wiring and connections typically ranges between $500 and $1,200, depending on factors such as:

• The size of the kitchen or renovation area – Larger spaces require more wiring and outlets.
• The number of appliances and power points needed – More installations increase labour and material costs.
• Accessibility and complexity of the wiring work – Hard-to-reach areas or older homes may require extra work.
• Switchboard upgrades or circuit installations – If your existing electrical system needs an upgrade, costs may increase.

For a more accurate estimate, it’s best to consult with a licensed electrician who can assess your specific wiring needs and provide a detailed quote.

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Factors that affect electrical pricing

When hiring an electrician, the total cost isn’t just about their hourly rate—several factors influence the final price. Key factors include:

• Your location – Electricians in major cities may charge higher rates than those in regional areas.
• Ease of access to the work area – Hard-to-reach spaces, such as tight crawl spaces or high ceilings, may increase labour costs.
• Size, type, and complexity of the job – Simple repairs cost less than full-scale installations or rewiring projects.
• Materials and equipment required – Costs vary based on the type and quality of wiring, outlets, and circuit breakers needed.

For example, wiring a new home is often cheaper and quicker than rewiring an older home. In new builds, electricians have easier access to wiring points, while older homes may require removing walls or navigating tight ceiling spaces, increasing both time and labour costs.

For an accurate price, it’s always best to request detailed quotes from multiple electricians based on your specific job requirements.

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What does an electrician do?

An electrician (also known as a “sparkie”) is a licensed tradesperson who plans, installs, and maintains electrical systems. They are responsible for a wide range of services, from repairs and maintenance to setting up home automation and entertainment systems. Electricians also handle lighting installations, solar power systems, and ensure the safe wiring of new homes or renovations.

Whether you’re building a new home or upgrading your current one, electricians play a crucial role in designing and installing your electrical system. They ensure that power points, lighting, and appliances are set up safely and efficiently, helping to keep your home compliant with safety standards and regulations.

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Getting an electrical quote

Still wondering how much  does an electrician cost? To get an accurate idea of electrical pricing, it’s best to compare multiple quotes from local contractors. When hiring an electrician, choose a professional with a solid reputation for quality work.

Always ensure that the electrician is qualified and licensed to perform the job, and confirm that they have the necessary insurance to work on your property. A reputable electrician will also provide a written quote and be able to share references from past clients.

If you’re searching for the “cheapest electrician near me,” comparing multiple free quotes from local electricians through platforms like Yellow Pages can give you a clear understanding of local market rates and help you find the right professional for your needs.

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