How Much Does It Cost to Paint House Interior in Australia?
9 October 2025Painting New House & New Build Painting Sydney
10 October 2025
Cost to Paint a Commercial Building
Get the right price, the right painters, and a professional finish that lasts
Ever tried to figure out the real cost of painting a commercial building and ended up more confused than before? You’re not alone. Whether you’re a building manager in Parramatta, a cafe owner in Newtown, or managing an industrial site in Wetherill Park, painting costs can vary widely depending on the size, height, access, and even the time of year.
At Painters Link, we've worked with hundreds of businesses across Sydney and beyond, helping them understand the full picture, not just a square-metre rate, but what goes into the job, how to plan for it, and how to avoid hidden surprises.
Average Cost to Paint a Commercial Building
Most commercial painting jobs in Sydney range between $15,000 – $90,000+, depending on the complexity. But to break it down further:
| Building Type | Typical Size | Estimated Cost (AUD) | Notes |
| Small Retail Shop or Office | 300 - 800 m² | $8,000 - $20,000 | Includes internal walls, ceilings, trims |
| Mid-Size Commercial Building | 1,000 - 3,000 m² | $25,000 - $65,000 | Includes exterior façade and access equipment |
| Large Office Complex or Warehouse | 4,000 m² + | $70,000 - $150,000 + | Requires lifts, scaffolding, multiple systems |
Pro tip: Always ask your painter to provide a detailed breakdown. A vague “$20 per square metre” quote can hide prep costs, primer coats, or after-hours work.
What Affects the Cost of Commercial Painting
Building Size and Height
Surface Condition and Preparation
Type of Paint and Coating
Choosing between acrylic,epoxy, or low-VOC paints depends on where and what you're painting. For example:
- Epoxy is perfect for warehouse painting.
- Low-VOC or antimicrobial paints are ideal for painting hospitals and schools painting.
- UV-resistant paints are best for painting external facades.
We often recommend Dulux Professional, Taubmans Endure, or Wattyl Solagard systems depending on the project.
Type of Paint and Coating
Scissor lifts painting, scaffolding, or rope access painter can add 10 – 25% to the quote. Complex rooflines or multi-storey structures often require licensed operators, which adds labour and insurance costs.
Work Timing (After-Hours or Weekends)
Many businesses want minimal disruption, especially in retail or healthcare settings. After-hours painting costs a bit more, but it keeps your business running as usual, something our Painters Link members often arrange seamlessly.
Location
What’s Included in a Professional Commercial Painting Quote
- Site inspection and condition report
- Surface preparation details (washing, sanding, filling, priming)
- Paint system specification (brand, number of coats, finish type)
- Access equipment and safety measures
- Estimated timeline
- Warranty details
Commercial Painting Cost Case Study
Here are a few real-world examples based on projects we’ve managed through Painters Link across Sydney.
Case Study 1: Two-Storey Office in Mascot
Area: 1,200 m² internal walls and ceilings
Paint System: Dulux Professional Low Sheen (interior), Wash & Wear (high-traffic zones)
Prep Work: Light patching, sanding, primer coat
Cost: ≈ $28,500
Outcome: Completed within 5 days over a long weekend with zero disruption to staff.
Case Study 2: Warehouse Exterior in Wetherill Park
Surface Area: 2,800 m² tilt-up concrete walls
Paint System: Wattyl Solagard + Primer for UV and moisture resistance
Access: Boom lift + safety harness system
Cost: ≈ $46,000
Outcome: Transformed dull facade into a modern light-grey tone that reflects heat and reduces cooling costs.
Case Study 3: Retail & Café Precinct, Newtown
Project Type: 6 shopfronts and shared façade
Paint System: Dulux Weathershield semi-gloss
After-Hours Work: 3 nights to avoid trading disruption
Cost: ≈ $17,000
Outcome: Boosted street appeal and increased foot traffic within weeks.
How to Estimate Your Commercial Painting Cost
Here’s a simple way to get a ballpark estimate:
1. Measure the total surface area (walls, ceilings, trims).
2. Multiply the area by an average rate:
- Interior = $18 - $30 / m²
- Exterior = $25 - $45 / m²
3. Add prep work (20%) and access (10 - 25%).
4. Consider extra if:
- You need anti-graffiti coating.
- You want heritage colour matching.
- You require weekend or night shifts.
Or, simply contact Painters Link, we’ll provide transparent commercial painting quotes.
Tips to Save Money on Commercial Painting
- Plan during off-peak seasons: Painters are less busy during winter, you may get better pricing.
- Use neutral colours: Easier touch-ups and lower repaint costs later.
- Bundle services: Combine exterior, interior, and line marking for a package rate.
- Schedule maintenance: A quick annual touch-up prevents full repaints.
- Compare multiple quotes: Painters Link makes this easy with vetted professionals.
FAQ: Cost to Paint a Commercial Building
Final Thoughts
Painting a commercial building isn’t just a cosmetic upgrade, it’s an investment in your brand, property value, and long-term maintenance. With Painters Link’s professional painting services, you’ll know exactly what you’re paying for and get results that stand the test of time.
If you’re in Sydney or anywhere in Australia, let us help you calculate your true cost to paint a commercial building, and connect you with the right team to make it happen.
Cost to Paint a Commercial Building - Calculator
Quick guide only. Prices vary by site conditions, access and spec. For a fixed quote, book an onsite inspection with Painters Link.
Itemised breakdown
| Item | Min ($) | Max ($) |
|---|---|---|
| Subtotal (ex GST) | ||
| GST 10% | ||
| Total (incl. GST) |
Assumptions: 2-coat baseline, standard masking, compliant OH&S setup. Lift or rope access is treated as a percentage uplift to cover equipment and operators.
Get a free quote today for painting your commercial building
Get a Free Commercial Painting Quote
Whether you’re repainting a warehouse, strata complex, retail shop, or entire office building, Painters Link commercial painters who offer transparent pricing, proven experience, and full warranty coverage.
Fill out our quick quote form today and get:
- Accurate cost estimate
- Recommended paint system
- Timeline and maintenance plan
- Free colour consultation (for eligible projects)
