Replacing an existing fence
Fence replacement cost in Australia
Replacing a fence combines the cost of removing the old one with the cost of the new fence, and, for a boundary fence, usually involves your neighbour. Here is how to think about the cost and the process.
The two parts of a replacement quote
A replacement quote normally has a removal-and-disposal line and an installation line. Some contractors bundle them; others itemise. Removing and installing in one visit is often easier to schedule, but compare both lines.
| Item | Illustrative allowance |
|---|---|
| Remove and dispose of an existing fence | $12 – $30 per metre |
| Pedestrian gate, supplied and fitted | $250 – $650 each |
| Sloping or uneven land | +8% to +25% on the fence run |
| Under 10 m (small-job loading) | ×1.15 on the per-metre rate |
| 10 to 60 m (reference) | ×1.00 on the per-metre rate |
| 60 to 200 m (scale allowance) | ×0.95 on the per-metre rate |
| Over 200 m (scale allowance) | ×0.92 on the per-metre rate |
Illustrative placeholderThese figures are placeholders requiring validation. They are not live contractor prices or a quote.
| Material | Per metre, installed | 20 m fence example |
|---|---|---|
| Colorbond steel | $95 – $180 | $1,900 – $3,600 |
| Timber paling | $70 – $150 | $1,400 – $3,000 |
| Aluminium slat / tubular | $160 – $300 | $3,200 – $6,000 |
| Pool fencing | $170 – $330 | $3,400 – $6,600 |
| Other / not sure | $90 – $250 | $1,800 – $5,000 |
Illustrative placeholderPer-metre figures assume a 1.8 m fence on flat ground, rounded. Placeholders requiring validation, not live contractor prices.
Replacing a dividing fence: talk to your neighbour first
Where a fence sits on the boundary, state and territory laws generally set out how neighbours may share the cost of an adequate dividing fence and what notice must be given before work. The rules differ in important ways, so use the official sources for your state.
| State / territory | Legislation to check |
|---|---|
| New South Wales | Dividing Fences Act 1991 (NSW) |
| Victoria | Fences Act 1968 (Vic) |
| Queensland | Neighbourhood Disputes (Dividing Fences and Trees) Act 2011 (Qld) |
| Western Australia | Dividing Fences Act 1961 (WA) |
| South Australia | Fences Act 1975 (SA) |
| Tasmania | Boundary Fences Act 1908 (Tas) |
| Australian Capital Territory | Common Boundaries Act 1981 (ACT) |
| Northern Territory | Fences Act 1972 (NT) |
- Speak to your neighbour before you get quotes, and share the quotes with them.
- Where required, give the written notice your state’s law describes before starting work.
- If you cannot agree, most states offer mediation or a tribunal or court process. Seek advice from the relevant authority.
- A fence entirely on your own land is generally your own responsibility.
This is general information, not legal advice. Check the current law with the official source in your state or territory.
Repair or replace?
- Repair when posts are sound and only a few palings, rails or panels have failed.
- Replace when posts have rotted or leaned, when many sections are damaged, or when repeated repairs cost more than the remaining life is worth.
- Consider changing material, for example from timber to Colorbond, if maintenance is the problem.
Related guides
- Fence removal costFence removal and disposal: what affects cost, asbestos warnings and utilities.
- Fence installation costWhat a fence installation involves, what drives cost and how to compare quotes.
- Timber fencing costTimber paling fences: price drivers, treatment, maintenance and bushfire notes.
- Colorbond fencing costColorbond steel fencing: pros, cons, what affects price and what to ask.
Useful official sources
Rules change and differ by council and by property. Use these official sources to confirm what applies to you before you build. Links point to each agency’s main site; use its search for the relevant topic.
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Open calculator →Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to replace a fence?
It is the cost of the new fence plus removal and disposal of the old one. Use the calculator and tick "Remove existing fence" for an indicative range based on placeholder figures, then get quotes from local contractors.
Does my neighbour have to pay towards a new dividing fence?
In many cases neighbours share the cost of an adequate dividing fence, but this depends on your state’s law and the circumstances. Check the official source for your state.
Can I replace a fence without telling my neighbour?
For a fence on a shared boundary, most states require notice or agreement before you ask for cost-sharing, and removing a shared fence without agreement can cause disputes. Talk first and check the law.
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