Bathroom Renovation Costs in Australia (2026 Guide)

Bathroom renovations are one of the most popular home improvements in Australia — and one of the most commonly underbudgeted. Labour costs, waterproofing, tiling, and fixture prices add up fast. Here's a realistic breakdown of what you can expect to pay in 2026.

Budget ranges at a glance

• Basic refresh (new fixtures, paint, vanity only): $5,000 – $10,000
• Mid-range full renovation (same footprint, new everything): $15,000 – $25,000
• High-end renovation (premium tiles, freestanding bath, heated floors): $25,000 – $40,000
• Luxury fitout (custom design, high-spec throughout): $40,000+

What drives the cost?

Labour (typically 40–50% of total)

A bathroom renovation involves multiple trades — plumber, tiler, electrician, waterproofer, plasterer, painter. Each needs to be booked, coordinated, and paid. Labour is the biggest cost and the least negotiable; cutting corners here leads to leaks and defects that cost far more to fix.

Waterproofing (non-negotiable)

Australian building standards (AS 3740) require wet areas to be waterproofed. This isn't optional — it's what prevents water destroying your floors and walls over time. Budget $600–$1,500 depending on bathroom size.

Tiling

Basic tiles from a trade supplier run $30–$60/m²; premium imported tiles can be $150–$300/m² or more. Tiling labour runs $60–$120/m², more for small or intricate tiles. A typical bathroom uses 15–25m² of tiles in total.

Plumbing

Keeping plumbing in the same location is the biggest cost-saving decision you can make. Moving a toilet, shifting a shower, or relocating waste pipes can add $3,000–$8,000 to a project.

Fixtures and fittings

Vanity, toilet suite, shower screen, tapware, shower rose, towel rails, mirror, and lighting. A mid-range complete fixture package runs $3,000–$6,000; premium can easily be $8,000–$15,000.

Hidden costs to plan for

Older homes often spring surprises once walls come down: rotted or soft subfloor from old leaks ($500–$3,000), asbestos removal in pre-1990 homes ($2,000–$5,000), electrical upgrades to bring wiring to code, and mould remediation. Always add at least 15% to your quoted price as a contingency — professionals will tell you the contingency fund almost always gets used.

How long does it take?

A standard bathroom renovation takes 2–4 weeks from start to finish, assuming no major surprises. The waterproofing membrane needs 24–48 hours to cure before tiling can begin. If you have only one bathroom, plan ahead for where you'll shower during this time.

Is it worth it?

In most cases, yes — bathrooms and kitchens consistently deliver the highest return on renovation investment. A well-renovated bathroom can add more to your home's value than the renovation cost, particularly in competitive markets. Even if you're not selling, the quality-of-life improvement is significant. The key is getting the budget right and using licensed, quality tradies from day one.