National fencing cost guide
How much does fencing cost in Australia?
There is no single price for a fence in Australia. Cost depends mainly on the material, the height and length, the ground it is going into and how much of the job is more than a straight run of panels. This guide explains each factor so you can budget realistically and compare quotes properly.
What drives the cost of a fence
Most quotes are built from a per-metre rate for the fence itself, plus separate lines for gates, removal of an old fence, difficult ground and any extras. Knowing which of those apply to you is the fastest way to understand a quote.
- Site conditionsRock, tree roots, reactive clay, sand and high water tables change how posts are set. Difficult digging is one of the biggest swing factors.
- Terrain and slopeSloping or uneven land needs stepped or racked panels and extra labour, and usually raises the per-metre rate.
- Materials and finishMaterial, gauge, profile, colour and coastal-grade coatings all move the price. Higher fences also need heavier posts and footings.
- Complexity and accessCorners, tight access, retaining walls, existing fence removal and neighbour coordination add time.
- Gates and extrasPedestrian and driveway gates, locks, pool-compliant latches and electrical or intercom work are usually priced separately.
- Local availabilityContractor availability, demand and travel time vary by region and season. Regional and remote areas often differ from capital cities.
Illustrative cost per metre by material
The table below comes from the same configuration as our calculator. The figures are illustrative placeholders that still need validating against real contractor pricing, so use them to compare materials with each other rather than to set a budget.
| 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.
In general, timber paling sits at the lower end, Colorbond in the middle, and aluminium and compliant pool fencing at the higher end. The order can change with height, finish and location.
Extras and adjustments that change a quote
| 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.
Short runs usually cost more per metre because setup, travel and minimum charges are spread over fewer metres. Long runs can benefit from scale. Gates are rarely included in the per-metre rate.
How to budget for a fence
- Measure the boundary length in metres, including returns and gate openings.
- Choose a material and height that suits the job (privacy, security, wind, pool rules or looks).
- Add removal if you are replacing an old fence, and note any slope, rock, tree roots or tight access.
- Allow for gates, which are usually priced per gate.
- Check whether you need a permit or council approval, and whether a neighbour shares the cost of a dividing fence.
- Get at least two or three itemised quotes and compare what is included, not just the total.
Use the cost calculator for an instant indicative range, then get quotes from local contractors for a real price based on your site.
Costs by type of job
Related guides
- Colorbond fencing costColorbond steel fencing: pros, cons, what affects price and what to ask.
- Timber fencing costTimber paling fences: price drivers, treatment, maintenance and bushfire notes.
- Aluminium fencing costAluminium slat and tubular fencing: cost drivers, coastal suitability and styles.
- Pool fencing costPool fence cost and compliance basics, with pointers to your state regulator.
- Fencing material comparisonColorbond, timber, aluminium and pool fencing compared on cost, upkeep and suitability.
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.
Get an indicative range
Estimate in minutes, then use it to brief local contractors.
Open calculator →Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest type of fence in Australia?
Timber paling is usually the lowest-cost option for a standard boundary fence, but it needs more maintenance over its life. Compare the whole-of-life cost, not only the installation price.
Are fencing prices the same across states?
No. Labour, material supply, soil and access conditions and demand differ between states and between cities and regional areas. We have not applied regional price adjustments because we do not yet have validated regional data.
Do fencing quotes include GST and permits?
Not always. Ask whether a quote is GST-inclusive and whether permits, council fees, engineering or utility locating are included or excluded.
Who pays for a dividing fence?
Dividing fence law differs by state and territory. Neighbours often share the cost of an adequate dividing fence, but there is a process to follow. See the fence replacement guide and check with your local authority.
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