Are you planning to give your old bathroom a new facelift? If you’re ready to turn those stifling tiles and grime-lined walls into something fresh and new, then you’re in the right place.
The thought of undertaking a bathroom renovation project may seem thrilling, but it’s important to be realistic about it. A full-scale bathroom renovation can be deceptively expensive if you let yourself get carried away.
From replacing sink grips to choosing the right tiles, there are a lot of mini-projects that you’re expected to take on when signing up for this project. And if it’s your first time performing it all by yourself, then it’s likely that you’ll encounter some hiccups along the way, costing you hundreds, if not thousands, more.
But don’t fret. The first step to a smooth and successful renovation is knowing what kind of costs to expect. This is especially true in Australia, where labour, materials, and compliance can quickly add up.
If you’re in the middle of your research and looking to calculate the expected cost of a bathroom renovation, then you’re in the right place. We’ll reveal the average price of bathroom renovation costs to ensure you can plan your expenses ahead of time.
Let’s get started.
Breakdown of Bathroom Renovation Costs in Australia: Average Prices for Fixtures and Finishes
The bathroom contains many fixtures and finishes, and each has its own associated cost when replaced, repaired, or upgraded.
Broadly speaking, bathroom upgrades can range from $5,000 for minor renovations to $35,000 for a full remodelling. For instance, changing the lighting and repainting the walls might set you back just about $5,000.
However, completely gutting the bathroom for a total makeover—including replacing the shower and toilets—lets your bill see the high end of $20,000 to $30,000.
If you can’t afford the price of the renovation, or are looking to undertake it in the future, you can consider setting up an offset account in your bank and have it linked to your mortgage. The excess fund is flexible and can be taken out and used for buying materials or paying tradies.
This page from Westpac goes into it in more detail.
Below is a breakdown of common costs for various bathroom renovation projects. Note that the prices listed are in Australian Dollars.
- Mirrors
A mirror may not be the first thing that comes to mind when someone thinks of the bathroom, but it’s an undeniable staple in the space. It doesn’t always need a replacement, but if you’re set on giving your bathroom a new look, then replacing it could be a good way to give the zone a new feel to it.
Moreover, if the design of the mirror is outdated, discoloured, cracked, or dim, then there’s all the more reason to replace it, or at the very least, give it a new look. The good news is that replacing a mirror isn’t too expensive if you’re going for just a basic piece. However, the price will shoot up with more customised variants.
Here are the average mirror prices in Australia:
- Frameless mirror: $70-$150
- Framed mirror: $150-$300
- Backlit mirror: $250-600
- Custom-sized mirror: $300-800
- Wallpaper and Wall Finishes
If you want your bathroom to look brand new, then changing up its wallpaper can be a good way to reshape its identity.
Over time, wallpaper can start to peel and bubble due to the buildup of moisture and bacteria in the space from the constant humidity. Furthermore, mould and mildew may also grow in random corners of the wall. In such cases, clearing the dirt and adding a waterproof coating is essential to keep the wall from eventually crumbling apart.
That said, even if your wallpaper or wall finish is holding up well structurally, it’s reasonable to still want to replace it for a better-looking finish. There are dozens of different patterns, materials, and designs you can consider, and choosing any of them can be great if your purpose is to give your bathroom a facelift.
Here are some standard prices for a wallpaper renovation in your bathroom:
- Waterproof paint: $60-100 for a 4L tin
- Wallpaper installation: $50-$80 per square meter
- Standard wallpaper: $80-150 per roll
- Premium/textured wallpaper: $150-300 per roll
- Light Fixtures
Lighting plays a major role in creating the bathroom atmosphere. The right light is bright and inviting, while the wrong ones can evoke dirtiness and dullness. In essence, updating your lighting can completely change the mood of the space, and there are many lighting choices that can help promote that mood shift.
This is especially true if your bathroom’s lighting is starting to show signs of failing or breaking apart.
Old light fixtures often flicker or become discoloured, clashing with the relaxing space of the interior. Some may also be energy-inefficient or poorly placed, casting shadows in the wrong areas.
The good news? There is a wide range of bathroom lighting options available, from LED ceiling lights to designer pendant lights. The prices can vary depending on design and installation complexity.
Here are the average light fixture prices in Australia:
- Basic ceiling light: $60-$150
- Vanity light bar: $100-$250
- LED downlights (each): $80-$200
- Pendant light fixture: $150-$350
- Electrician installation: $100-$250
- Sink and Toilet
The sink and toilet are often overlooked during renovations as they’re considered the main fixtures of the place. But if you feel that they detract from the beauty of the restroom, then it’s more than valid to want to replace them with more functional and modern alternatives.
Over time, taps can develop leaks, water pressure issues, or start to show signs of rust. For minor issues, a quick call to a plumbing company can solve the issue. However, for long-standing issues, replacing them with new models can be the better option to improve both performance and water efficiency.
Similarly, toilets can also start to develop structural issues like a loose toilet lid or surface stains. While tightening the bolts or using a vinegar solution to remove stains can help, changing the entire toilet with one that has enhanced systems can pay off even more in the long run.
Here’s a breakdown of average prices for these fixtures in Australia:
- Basin tapware set: $100-$250
- Shower mixer set: $150-$400
- Standard dual-flush toilet: $250-$600
- Toilet installation: $150-$300
- Tapware installation: $150-$300
- A Vanity
A bathroom vanity serves an essential purpose, and that is to store toiletries and various hygienic products in one space. A vanity can also come in a wide range of styles; however, it’s not uncommon for it to deteriorate if not properly coated with the right waterproof materials.
If your vanity is broken or water-damaged, consider painting over it or buying a new one to replace it. Many modern vanities also come with pre-installed basins and soft-close drawers, making them a practical upgrade that doesn’t require major construction.
Here’s what you can expect to spend in Australia:
- Pre-assembled vanity with basin: $400-$1,000
- Custom-built or designer vanity: $1,200
- Installation costs: $200-$400
- Plumbing adjustments: $150–$300
Other Bathroom Additions to Consider
Beyond the major fixture renovations, there are a few other additions and tools that can quietly increase your overall renovation spending.
Here are these items and their associated costs if bought brand new:
- Silicone sealant: $10-$20
- Grout and adhesive: $25-$50
- Waste traps and connectors: $20-$60
- Tile cutter: $50-$300
- Safety switch: $100-$250
- Wall plugs, screws, fixings: $20-$50
Of course, you’ll only need a couple of these materials and tools if you’re undergoing a minor renovation, if any. However, if you’re going for a full-scale remodelling, these tools are essential to ensure that your electrical and structural needs are met.
All the best in decorating your new bathroom!
