How much does it cost to build a house in Australia ?
Real cost data for Melbourne, Sydney, and every state. From budget builds at $1,800/sqm to luxury homes at $6,000+/sqm — find out what your dream home will actually cost.
$360K
Budget 200sqm
$700K
Mid-range 250sqm
$1.6M+
Luxury 350sqm
Most Australians underestimate build costs by 15–25%
The advertised "build price" from a volume builder is just the starting point. Once you add site costs, landscaping, driveways, fencing, blinds, air conditioning, and council fees, the real number is significantly higher.
A typical 4-bedroom home in Melbourne advertised at $350K will actually cost $500K–$650K by the time you move in. Our calculator accounts for these hidden costs so you get a realistic estimate — not a marketing number.
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Site costs alone can add $10K–$60K+
Soil type, slope, and connections all affect your bottom line
From Starter Homes to Grand Designs
Every budget gets you a quality Australian home. Here's what to expect at different price points.
$360K – $700K
180–250 sqm, project home, solid inclusions
$700K – $1.1M
250–300 sqm, stone benchtops, quality finishes
$1.1M – $2.1M+
300+ sqm, architect-designed, premium everything
8–18
Months to build
$1.8K
Min cost per sqm
7 Star
NatHERS minimum
Cost Guides by Location
Real cost data adjusted for your city's market conditions
What's actually in a build cost?
When a builder quotes you "$350,000 for a 4-bedroom home", they mean the construction cost only. That's the slab, frame, roof, internal fit-out, plumbing, and electrical.
What's not included is everything that turns a shell into a home you can live in: landscaping ($10K–$80K), fencing ($5K–$20K), blinds ($3K–$15K), air conditioning, driveways, and utility connections.
Then there are the site costs — soil testing, earthworks, retaining walls — which can range from $10K on a flat lot to $60K+ on sloping or reactive clay sites.
The real cost is typically 15–25% above the advertised build price
Budget an additional $50K – $150K for a complete, move-in-ready home.
Usually Included
- ✓ Structural works (slab, frame, roof)
- ✓ Internal and external cladding
- ✓ Kitchen and bathroom fit-out
- ✓ Electrical, plumbing, painting
- ✓ Builder's warranty and insurance
Usually NOT Included
- ✗ Land, landscaping, fencing
- ✗ Blinds, curtains, air conditioning
- ✗ Driveway, connections (water, gas, NBN)
- ✗ Council fees, permits, soil testing
Guides & Tools
Everything you need to plan your build with confidence
National Cost Guide
State-by-state comparison across Australia.
Cost Per Square Metre
The metric explained — and why it's misleading.
15 Hidden Costs
What builders don't tell you about the real cost.
FHOG Victoria — $10,000
First Home Owner Grant eligibility and how to apply.
Stamp Duty Savings VIC
Save $20K–$40K by building instead of buying.
Build vs Buy 2026
Full financial comparison — which is smarter?
Construction Loans
How progress drawdowns work and what to look for.
FHOG NSW — $10,000
NSW grant plus $800K stamp duty exemption.
Stamp Duty NSW
First home buyer exemptions and concessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to build a 4-bedroom house in Melbourne? +
Is it cheaper to build or buy in Melbourne? +
What is the First Home Owner Grant in Victoria? +
How long does it take to build a house? +
What are site costs and why do they vary? +
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