How much does a bathroom renovation cost in Melbourne — and what should the quote actually include?
Melbourne bathroom renovations range from $8,000 for a cosmetic refresh to $60,000+ for a premium fit-out. But the price alone doesn't tell you if the quote is safe to sign.
You've just been handed a quote for $32,000 for a single bathroom. A $32,000 quote that clearly itemises every cost, includes waterproofing certification, and complies with Victorian law is a very different proposition from a $28,000 quote that's vague on scope and front-loads the payment schedule. Here is how to break down both the numbers and the fine print.
What bathroom renovations actually cost in Melbourne
According to industry data from the HIA and Archicentre Australia, a mid-range bathroom renovation in Australia costs $20,000–$35,000. Inner-city Melbourne suburbs with period homes tend to come in 10–15% higher due to access constraints and older building stock.
Cosmetic refresh: $8,000–$15,000
Replacing the vanity, updating tapware, repainting tiles, new mirrors and accessories. The plumbing stays where it is and waterproofing is not redone — only suitable if your existing membrane is still compliant.
Standard full renovation: $15,000–$35,000
Complete strip-out with new waterproofing, floor-to-ceiling tiling, and mid-range fixtures. In Victoria, any project over $16,000 triggers mandatory Domestic Building Insurance (DBI). Verify at dbi.vmia.vic.gov.au.
Premium renovation: $35,000–$60,000+
Structural changes, relocated plumbing, natural stone tiling, frameless glass, heated towel rails, underfloor heating, or custom joinery. Projects at this level almost always require a building permit.
Where the money actually goes
| Component | Typical % | Melbourne estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Demolition and removal | 5–8% | $1,000–$2,500 |
| Waterproofing | 5–8% | $800–$2,000 |
| Plumbing (rough-in + fit-off) | 15–20% | $3,000–$6,000 |
| Electrical | 5–8% | $600–$1,500 |
| Tiling (walls and floor, incl. supply) | 20–25% | $2,500–$5,500 |
| Fixtures (vanity, toilet, shower, tapware) | 15–20% | $2,000–$5,000+ |
| Cabinetry and joinery | 5–10% | $800–$2,500 |
| Painting and finishing | 3–5% | $400–$1,000 |
What your quote must include
1. Waterproofing compliance
The quote must state that waterproofing will comply with AS 3740 and include a compliance certificate on completion. Waterproofing failure costs $15,000–$30,000 to rectify.
2. Realistic Prime Cost (PC) allowances
A $500 PC allowance for a bathtub won't get you far — a mid-range freestanding bath typically costs $1,200–$2,500 supplied. Check every PC item against real retail prices before signing.
3. Asbestos handling
In homes built before the late 1980s, the quote should explicitly address asbestos discovery. Licensed removal typically costs $1,500–$4,000.
4. Supply vs labour-only pricing
Always confirm: "Does this price include supplying the materials and fixtures, or just the labour?" A $20,000 labour-only quote could become $30,000+ once tiles, vanity, toilet, tapware, and shower screen are added.
5. Stage-based payment schedule
Your quote should not say "50% on signing, 50% on completion." In Victoria, progress payments for contracts over $10,000 should align with defined construction stages — deposit, base, frame, lock-up, fixing, and completion.
This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Sources: HIA — Kitchens and Bathrooms Report · Archicentre Australia — Cost Guides 2024–25 · Domestic Building Contracts Act 1995 (Vic) · AS 3740