Building a garage in Australia can be a smart investment, offering practical storage space and potentially increasing your property’s value. However, the cost of building a garage in 2024 depends on several factors such as the size, materials, design, location, and whether it’s a simple structure or includes extras like electrical work or insulation. This article will break down the average costs and key considerations when planning to build a garage in Australia.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Building a Garage
- Size of the Garage The size of the garage is one of the most significant factors in determining cost. A single-car garage will naturally cost less than a double or triple-car garage.
- Single-Car Garage: Typically around 18 square meters, a basic structure would cost between AUD 15,000 to AUD 25,000.
- Double-Car Garage: With a size of approximately 36 square meters, you can expect costs ranging from AUD 25,000 to AUD 45,000.
- Triple-Car Garage: These larger garages (around 54 square meters) could range from AUD 50,000 to AUD 70,000 or more, depending on the features included.
- Type of Garage The type of garage will also influence your budget. There are generally two types of garages:
- Attached Garage: This type is built as an extension of your home and tends to be more cost-effective, as it can share walls with the existing structure. However, it might require more complex design integration, costing around AUD 20,000 to AUD 40,000 for a single-car version.
- Detached Garage: Detached garages are standalone buildings, and while they provide more flexibility in placement, they typically require more construction materials, raising the cost. Expect prices from AUD 25,000 to AUD 50,000 for a detached single-car garage.
- Materials Used The materials used for the structure can dramatically affect the overall price. Common materials include:
- Steel: Steel garages are usually more affordable, with single-car structures costing between AUD 12,000 and AUD 25,000. They are durable, low-maintenance, and fire-resistant.
- Brick: Brick garages are costlier, due to both the materials and labor involved. A single-car brick garage could range from AUD 20,000 to AUD 40,000.
- Timber: Timber garages offer a rustic appearance and are more eco-friendly. Prices can vary from AUD 18,000 to AUD 35,000, depending on the quality of the wood.
- Additional Features Basic garages can be relatively affordable, but adding extras will increase costs. Consider the following options:
- Insulation: Insulating your garage can keep it cooler in summer and warmer in winter, especially important if the garage doubles as a workspace. Adding insulation will cost an extra AUD 2,000 to AUD 5,000.
- Electricity: Wiring the garage for lights, outlets, and possibly an electric door opener can add AUD 1,500 to AUD 3,500 to the total cost.
- Flooring: Basic concrete floors are standard in most garages, but upgrading to epoxy flooring or polished concrete could add between AUD 2,000 and AUD 5,000 to your bill.
- Automatic Doors: Installing an automatic door opener can cost between AUD 600 and AUD 1,200 depending on the door’s size and type.
Regional Differences
Building costs can also vary significantly depending on where you live in Australia. Metropolitan areas such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane tend to have higher labour and material costs than regional areas.
- Sydney: Expect higher prices due to elevated labour costs. A standard double garage might range between AUD 40,000 to AUD 55,000.
- Melbourne: Similar to Sydney, prices tend to be on the higher end. You could be looking at AUD 35,000 to AUD 50,000 for a double garage.
- Brisbane: While Brisbane is somewhat cheaper, you can still expect to pay around AUD 30,000 to AUD 45,000 for a double garage.
- Regional Areas: In rural or regional areas, prices can be 10-20% lower, with some detached garages costing around AUD 20,000 to AUD 30,000 depending on accessibility and availability of materials.
Council Permits and Regulations
Another cost to consider is obtaining council permits, which are mandatory for most garage builds in Australia. The cost of permits will depend on your local council but typically ranges from AUD 500 to AUD 2,000. Some councils may require additional inspections or documentation, which can add to the cost.
It’s important to check local zoning laws and building codes before starting construction. In some cases, you may need to adhere to specific regulations regarding size, setbacks, or even aesthetic requirements.
Labour Costs
Labour costs are another significant factor in garage construction. In 2024, the average cost of hiring builders, electricians, and plumbers varies by region:
- Builders: AUD 60 to AUD 100 per hour
- Electricians: AUD 80 to AUD 130 per hour
- Plumbers: AUD 90 to AUD 150 per hour
For a standard single-car garage, labour can add anywhere from AUD 5,000 to AUD 15,000 to the total cost, depending on the complexity of the project.
Pre-Fabricated vs Custom-Built Garages
One way to potentially reduce costs is to opt for a pre-fabricated garage kit, which can be assembled on-site. These kits are often cheaper because they come with standardized plans and materials, cutting down on both material and labour costs. A basic pre-fabricated steel garage can cost as little as AUD 12,000 to AUD 20,000, whereas custom-built garages tend to be more expensive because they are designed and built to specific requirements.
DIY vs Hiring Professionals
If you’re handy and have construction experience, you may consider building your own garage. Doing it yourself can save on labour costs, potentially reducing the total price by AUD 5,000 to AUD 10,000. However, be mindful that complex tasks like electrical wiring and plumbing must be completed by licensed professionals to comply with Australian building regulations.
Summary of Estimated Costs for Building a Garage in 2024
| Garage Type | Cost Range (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Single-Car Garage | AUD 15,000 to AUD 25,000 |
| Double-Car Garage | AUD 25,000 to AUD 45,000 |
| Triple-Car Garage | AUD 50,000 to AUD 70,000+ |
| Detached Single-Car | AUD 25,000 to AUD 50,000 |
| Pre-Fabricated Steel Garage | AUD 12,000 to AUD 20,000 |
Building a garage in Australia in 2024 comes with a wide range of options and costs, depending on your location, materials, and desired features. By carefully considering these factors, you can plan a garage build that suits your budget while meeting your practical needs. Whether it’s a basic structure for car storage or a fully insulated, multi-functional space, understanding the costs involved will help you make informed decisions throughout the building process.