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How much does it cost to hire a painter
Painting is one of the simplest and most effective ways to improve your property’s appearance, boost value, and create a fresh atmosphere. But when you start researching painters, you’ll quickly discover that prices can vary quite a bit across Australia.
Whether you’re in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, or a regional area, knowing the factors that influence painting costs can help you budget properly and avoid unexpected expenses. In this guide, we’ll look at average prices by state and territory, outline what drives costs up or down, and share practical tips to make sure you get a fair deal and a beautiful result.
What Influences Painting Costs?
Before you start collecting quotes, it helps to understand what determines pricing. Painters take many elements into account when estimating:
- Size of the Job: Larger areas mean more paint and longer labour time.
- Condition of Surfaces: Cracked, stained, or peeling walls need extra prep like sanding, filling, and priming.
- Height and Access: Multi-storey homes or high ceilings often require scaffolding or extension ladders, which add cost.
- Type of Paint: Premium paints are more expensive but often more durable.
- Complexity: If you have ornate trims, detailed cornices, or want multiple colours, it takes more time.
- Labour Costs: These differ across states depending on local demand and cost of living.
- Time of Year: Spring and summer are busier, and you may pay more during peak times.
- Insurance and Licensing: Licensed and insured painters can charge higher rates, reflecting their professionalism.
Interior vs. Exterior Painting Costs
Interior painting tends to be more affordable per square metre because painters work in a controlled environment. On average, interior walls and ceilings cost about $15–$40 per m². For a single room, you might spend between $400–$800, including preparation and materials.
Exterior painting is usually dearer due to extra preparation, weatherproofing, and equipment needs. Rates are often $20–$70 per m², depending on the surface and accessibility. A standard single-storey exterior repaint could start from $5,000, while larger or double-storey homes may exceed $12,000.
If you’ve ever wondered how much does it cost to hire a painter for an exterior job, keep in mind that access equipment and surface repairs can add thousands to your quote.
Residential vs. Commercial Painting
Residential painting generally involves living spaces, bedrooms, and exteriors of homes. Quotes are often based on square metres, or sometimes on an hourly or daily rate, which might be between $40 and $80 per hour.
Commercial painting covers offices, shops, schools, and warehouses. These projects can be larger in scale, involve special finishes or safety measures, and sometimes require out-of-hours work to avoid disrupting business. As a result, hourly rates can run from $45–$90, and square metre rates often range from $10–$30, depending on size and complexity.
Average Costs by State and Territory
Here’s a clear comparison of painting costs across Australia. Use this as a guide before getting personalised quotes and deciding How much does it cost to hire a painter in your area.
| State / Territory | Hourly Rate | 3-Bedroom House Interior | 3-Bedroom House Exterior |
| NSW (Sydney) | $50–$80+ | $6,000–$10,000 | $6,000–$12,000 |
| Victoria (Melbourne) | $45–$80 | $5,000–$9,000 | $5,000–$10,000 |
| Queensland (Brisbane) | $45–$85 | $5,000–$9,000 | $5,500–$12,000 |
| WA (Perth) | $50–$90 | $5,000–$9,000 | $5,000–$12,000 |
| SA (Adelaide) | $40–$75 | $4,500–$8,000 | $4,500–$9,000 |
| Tasmania (Hobart) | $35–$70 | $4,000–$7,000 | $4,000–$9,000 |
| NT (Darwin) | $40–$80 | $5,000–$9,000 | $6,000–$12,000 |
| ACT (Canberra) | $45–$85 | $5,500–$9,500 | $5,000–$10,000 |
Cost of Hiring a Painter in New South Wales
In NSW, especially Sydney, costs are among Australia’s highest. Skilled painters often charge $50–$80 per hour, and top professionals can exceed $100.
Interior painting for a standard 3-bedroom house typically ranges from $6,000–$10,000, depending on preparation and paint quality. Exteriors start around $6,000, and can go higher if your home has timber cladding, high walls, or intricate features.
Licensing is required for jobs over $1,000 in value, so always ask for your painter’s licence and insurance.
Cost of Hiring a Painting Contractor in Victoria
Melbourne painting prices are similar to Sydney’s. Labour rates are usually $45–$80 an hour.
A typical interior repaint might cost $5,000–$9,000. Exteriors can start around $5,000 and go past $10,000, especially for two-storey weatherboard homes.
While painters in Victoria may not need a specific licence, always check references and insurance. Regional areas can be more affordable than metropolitan Melbourne.
Cost of Hiring a Painting Contractor in Queensland
In Brisbane, painters charge $45–$85 per hour on average. Coastal regions like the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast can be similar.
Interior painting commonly costs between $5,000 and $9,000. Exteriors tend to range from $5,500–$12,000, especially in areas with high UV exposure that requires premium paint.
Queensland law requires painters to hold a licence for any domestic job over $3,300, so be sure to confirm credentials.
Cost of Hiring a Painting Contractor in Western Australia
Perth painters often charge $50–$90 per hour, reflecting demand and high material costs.
Interiors usually cost $5,000–$9,000 for an average-sized home. Exterior projects can be $5,000–$12,000 or more, especially for larger homes exposed to intense sun and coastal conditions.
WA requires licensing for larger painting work. Make sure to check for valid insurance and experience with your type of property.
Cost of Hiring a Painting Contractor in South Australia
South Australia is known for more affordable painting services. In Adelaide, hourly rates often sit between $40 and $75.
A standard interior repaint of a 3-bedroom home might cost $4,500–$8,000, while exteriors typically range from $4,500–$9,000.
Although licensing requirements here are less strict, reputable painters should carry insurance and be willing to show examples of their work.
Cost of hiring a painter in other states
Tasmania
Tasmania offers some of the best value in Australia. Painters often charge $35–$70 per hour.
Interiors commonly cost $4,000–$7,000. Exteriors are typically $4,000–$9,000, depending on materials and preparation.
Because of the damp climate, it’s important to use mould-resistant paint. Always confirm your painter plans for this.
Northern Territory
In Darwin and other NT locations, painting costs can be moderate to high. Hourly rates typically range $40–$80.
Interiors often cost $5,000–$9,000, while exteriors usually start at $6,000 and climb due to intense UV and tropical conditions.
If you’re not sure how much does it cost to hire a painter in your remote area, be sure to request detailed quotes that include travel costs.
Australian Capital Territory
Canberra rates are similar to NSW. Most painters charge $45–$85 per hour.
Interior jobs tend to range between $5,500–$9,500. Exteriors often cost $5,000–$10,000, depending on access and preparation needs.
Many painters here are licensed in NSW, so you should ask about qualifications and verify insurance.
Tips to Keep Your Painting Project on Budget
Here are some practical ways to save money and avoid surprises:
Compare multiple quotes
Always get at least three quotes. Look for detailed breakdowns showing preparation, materials, and number of coats.
Ask about hidden fees
Make sure your quote includes GST, travel costs, and disposal of waste materials.
Clear the area
Moving furniture and removing decorations yourself can save painters time and lower labour costs.
Supply your own paint carefully
If you find a good deal, ask whether your painter is happy for you to supply it. Professionals often get trade discounts and may prefer certain brands.
Book early
Painters are busiest in warmer months. Booking ahead ensures you have more choice and may lock in current rates.
Choose quality
Cheap paint jobs often need redoing sooner. Investing in skilled painters and good materials pays off over time.
What to Expect When You Hire a Painter
Professional painters bring experience and skill that DIY can’t match:
- Proper prep work for smooth, long-lasting results.
- Safe practices when working at heights or handling chemicals.
- Quality finishes without streaks or uneven coats.
- Efficient timelines that keep your project on schedule.
- Warranties for added peace of mind.
If you’ve ever wondered how much does it cost to hire a painter, remember that hiring a professional isn’t just about price—it’s about getting it right the first time.
Find Trusted Painters Near You
Whether you’re in a big city or a regional town, Painters Link helps you connect with qualified professionals ready to transform your space. Our Painters Directory makes it simple to browse painters near you, compare services, and read reviews.
Conclusion
Painting costs vary widely across Australia, but the right information helps you plan confidently. Use this guide as a reference, then gather detailed quotes to see exactly how much does it cost to hire a painter in your area.
When you’re ready, explore our Painters Directory to connect with local professionals and get your project started.
