25 November, 2025
Bathroom Renovation Cost in Australia 2026: Complete Guide
2026 Bathroom Renovation Costs Australia: $5K budget refresh to $45K+ luxury spa. Real price breakdown, hidden extras & 7 smart ways to save thousands!
Renovating a bathroom can be a great upgrade. It makes the space more comfortable and can add value to your home. But costs can shift a lot depending on what you want. A simple refresh will cost far less than a full luxury change. Knowing average bathroom renovation costs in Australia for 2026 helps you plan with fewer surprises. This guide offers a complete bathroom renovation cost breakdown, covering key cost drivers, renovation tiers, and practical saving tips to help you plan a project that fits your budget and avoids financial blowouts. Keep reading!
How Much Is a Bathroom Renovation in Australia 2026
How much does a bathroom renovation cost? The Housing Industry Association reports an average cost of bathroom renovation of about $26,000 in Australia, but actual projects can fall well below or far above that depending on scope. Let’s break it down.
Budget Renovation
A budget bathroom renovation usually ranges from $5,000 to $15,000, though more minor cosmetic refreshes can cost as little as $2,000. At this level, the focus is on affordable updates rather than structural changes. Simple updates like repainting tiles, replacing old bathroom products, or installing a new vanity can refresh your space without significant costs. This range is also typical when looking at small bathroom renovation cost Australia, where limited space keeps labour and material needs lower.
Mid-Range Renovation
Mid-range bathroom renovations generally fall between $15,000 and $40,000, with many projects clustering around $8,000 to $16,000, depending on size and material choices. This price bracket opens the door to more substantial work, including removing and replacing old tiles, upgrading fixtures with reputable brands, and adding touches of style such as frameless or semi-frameless shower screens or a feature-tiled wall. It strikes a strong balance between quality, function, and visual appeal.
Luxury Renovation
A luxury bathroom renovation usually starts around $35,000 and can reach $45,000 or more once premium extras are added. This tier of bathroom remodel cost often means a full strip-out and rebuild, and sometimes a new layout, not just a surface update. With this budget, you can bring in high-end touches like heated flooring, spa baths, freestanding bathtubs, designer fixtures, smart lighting, and well-known premium brands. The aim is a bathroom that feels indulgent, works smoothly every day, and has a standout finish.
What Influences the Cost of a Bathroom Renovation?
Knowing what affects the cost of bathroom renovation helps with better budgeting. Here are some key factors that can affect how much bathroom renovation cost.
Size of Your Bathroom
The size of your bathroom is one of the most significant factors affecting renovation costs. Larger spaces require more materials, more labour, and often more time, which increases the overall budget.
Quality of Materials and Fixtures
Premium tiles, countertops, and finishes cost more but offer better durability and a more polished look. High-end fixtures such as designer taps, toilets, and showerheads also increase your budget but enhance both functionality and overall home value.
Labour Costs and Professional Services
Labour rates vary depending on the skill level of the professionals involved and the complexity of the work required. Choosing experienced contractors can also help you avoid costly mistakes, ensure high-quality workmanship, and guide you toward the best materials and design choices for your renovation.
Design Complexity and Custom Features
More complex designs generally cost more because they require extra time, skill, and materials. Custom elements such as bespoke cabinetry, speciality tiles, unique lighting, or added luxuries like heated floors and steam showers can significantly increase your budget.
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional: Cost Difference & How to Choose
Some bathroom tasks are safe and realistic to handle yourself, while others require licensed trades due to safety and legal requirements. Let’s take a closer look.
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DIY-Friendly Tasks
Painting, cosmetic updates, installing pre-assembled vanities or mirrors, replacing taps or hardware, and following straightforward tutorials are all manageable for many homeowners. -
Tasks for Professionals
For plumbing, electrical work, waterproofing, or changing the layout, you really want a professional. Those tasks need the right licences and exact work, and a small error can lead to leaks, damage, or even fines.
Below is the direct comparison between both to help you choose between DIY and hiring a professional.
| Factor | DIY Renovation | Professional Renovation |
| Cost | Lower (you only pay for materials) | Higher (labour + materials) |
| Time and Effort | Longer; can take weeks or months | Faster; contractors follow set schedules |
| Quality and Finish | Depends on your skill | High-quality, consistent, and code-compliant |
| Risk of Mistakes | Higher; DIY errors can be costly | Lower; pros know proper techniques and regulations |
| Customization | Very flexible; full creative control | Good; pros offer options but follow proven methods |
| Compliance | Risky; may miss permits or codes | Smooth; contractors handle permits and inspections |
| Enjoyment | Rewarding when done well | Stress-free; you avoid the hard labour |
Smart Tips to Save Money on Your Bathroom Renovation
Renovations can be pricey, but with some innovative strategies, you can save money without compromising quality. Here are practical ways to stay on budget:
- Plan Ahead: Decide on your layout, materials, and timeline before starting the project helps prevent unexpected expenses.
- Prioritize Needs Over Wants: Focus on essential repairs or upgrades first. Luxury features can always be added later if your budget allows
- Reuse and Repurpose: If your fixtures still function well, refurbishing them can be a cost-effective alternative to buying new ones.
- Shop Sales and Discounts: Look out for discounts on tiles, fixtures, or fittings. Seasonal sales and clearance events can offer great value.
- DIY Where Possible: Handle simple tasks like painting or installing shelves to reduce labour costs.
- Get Multiple Quotes: Request quotes from several contractors to compare pricing, service, and scope before choosing one.
- Opt for Cost-Effective Materials: Choose durable, affordable materials that achieve the look you want without the premium price tag.
Conclusion
Knowing your bathroom renovation cost helps you plan a project that fits your budget and still gives you the look and comfort you want. When you know the usual price ranges, what can raise or lower the total, and when to use DIY or hire a pro, it’s much easier to make smart choices. A clear plan also helps you avoid surprise costs and stay on track. With the right steps, your new bathroom can look great, work well, and suit your budget for years. For high-quality bathroom products worth checking out, visit MyHomeware.
