Bathroom Renovation Cost in 2026

Bathrooms are small, but they’re dense with plumbing, tile, and waterproofing — which is why they cost more per square metre than almost any other room. A 2026 bathroom renovation typically runs A$12,500–A$31,000 with primary-bath gut jobs and additions passing A$46,500.

Here’s what each budget level buys, where the money goes, and how to avoid the two mistakes that blow bathroom budgets: moving plumbing and discovering water damage.

Cost by scope

Bathrooms scale with how much you change and how much plumbing moves:

• Cosmetic refresh (A$12,500–A$18,500): new vanity, toilet, fixtures, paint, lighting, and re-tiling a floor.
• Mid-range renovation (A$18,500–A$31,000): new tub/shower, tile surround, vanity, flooring, fixtures and ventilation.
• Full gut / primary bath (A$31,000–A$54,500+): new layout, walk-in or curbless shower, double vanity, premium tile and finishes.

Where the money goes

Labour is a bigger share here than in most rooms because of tile and plumbing:

• Labour: ~40–50% — tile setting, plumbing and waterproofing are skilled, time-intensive work.
• Fixtures and fittings (tub, shower, toilet, vanity, taps): ~25–30%.
• Tile and flooring: ~10–15%.
• Lighting, ventilation, paint and accessories: the rest.

Watch for these budget-killers

Bathrooms hide more surprises than any other room:

• Moving the toilet, shower or sink — relocating drains is expensive.
• Hidden water damage or mould behind old tile and around the tub.
• Outdated or unsafe wiring and no exhaust fan (now code in most areas).
• Going curbless or converting tub-to-shower — great features, but they add labour.

How to keep it on budget

As with kitchens, keeping the plumbing where it is saves the most money. Waterproofing is not the place to cut corners — a proper shower pan and membrane is what keeps a beautiful bathroom from rotting behind the walls in five years, so make sure your quote spells it out. Budget a 15% contingency for the water damage older bathrooms so often reveal at demo.

What’s different in Australia

Prices on this page are in Australian dollars and reflect typical national ranges; your state and city matter a lot. Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra and remote/regional areas sit at the higher end, and northern zones add cyclone and heat considerations.

By law, electrical and plumbing work must be carried out by a licensed tradesperson — unlicensed DIY on these is illegal and voids insurance. Most building work follows the National Construction Code and relevant Australian Standards, needs council/private-certifier approval, and attracts 10% GST. In homes built before the late 1980s, assume asbestos may be present and test before disturbing materials.

Frequently asked questions