Whether you are replacing a tired paling fence or adding compliant pool fencing, the price varies dramatically depending on material, height, and site conditions. The average fence cost in Australia sits between $75 and $200 per linear metre for a standard 1.8-metre boundary fence, with total projects ranging from $2,000 for treated pine palings to $15,000 or more for a full perimeter of premium Colorbond or slat fencing. This guide breaks down every cost component so you can compare quotes from a licensed fencer or licensed builder.
How Much Does a Fence Cost? The Short Answer
Total fence cost depends on the material, the length of the run, and whether you are building a boundary fence, feature fence, or pool fence. Here is how the three budget tiers compare for a standard 20-metre boundary fence at 1.8 metres high.
| Budget Tier | Cost per Metre | Total for 20m Run | Typical Materials |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | $50–$100 | $1,000–$2,000 | Treated pine palings, basic tubular steel |
| Mid-range | $100–$200 | $2,000–$4,000 | Colorbond, hardwood timber, aluminium slat |
| Premium | $200–$400+ | $4,000–$8,000+ | Rendered brick pillars with Colorbond infill, spotted gum, aluminium privacy screening |
Budget fences use basic materials on flat sites. Mid-range projects step up to Colorbond steel or quality hardwood with concrete footings. Premium builds combine materials (brick pillars with steel infill panels) or use high-end timber species. Prices include supply and standard installation but exclude old fence removal, site clearing, and council permits.
Fence Cost Per Metre by Material
Material selection is the single biggest factor in your fence cost. Here is how the most common fencing materials compare per linear metre at a standard 1.8-metre height, including supply and installation on a flat, accessible site.
| Material | Cost per Metre (Installed) | Lifespan | Maintenance | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Treated pine palings | $50–$90 | 15–20 years | Stain or paint every 3–5 years | Budget boundary fences, temporary fencing |
| Hardwood timber (merbau) | $80–$150 | 25–40 years | Oil every 2–3 years | Mid-range, natural look, sloping sites |
| Colorbond steel | $75–$120 | 20–30+ years | Wash annually, no painting | Most popular choice, low maintenance, privacy |
| Aluminium slat | $120–$250 | 30+ years | Minimal (wash only) | Modern look, airflow, sloping sites |
| Tubular steel | $70–$130 | 20–30 years | Minimal rust treatment | Front fences, security, visibility |
| Brick or rendered block | $250–$500 | 50+ years | Minimal | Feature fences, noise reduction, pillars |
| Composite | $150–$300 | 25–30 years | Wash annually | Bushfire zones, low maintenance |
| Pool fencing (aluminium) | $180–$300 | 25+ years | Minimal | AS 1926.1 compliance, durability |
| Pool fencing (glass, semi-frameless) | $250–$450 | 20+ years | Regular cleaning | Unobstructed pool views, premium look |
| Pool fencing (glass, frameless) | $350–$600+ | 20+ years | Regular cleaning | Premium pool areas, architectural homes |
Colorbond is the most popular fencing material across Australia. It requires almost no maintenance, comes in 22 colours, handles wind loads well, and provides complete privacy. Hardwood timber suits sloping blocks where the fence can be raked to follow the ground. Aluminium slat fencing is gaining popularity for its modern look and adjustable privacy.
Factors That Affect Fence Cost
Every fencing project is different. These eight factors have the biggest impact on your final bill.
1. Material Choice
As the table above shows, material selection creates a tenfold price difference between the cheapest and most expensive options. A 20-metre run of treated pine palings costs $1,000 to $1,800 installed, while the same length in frameless glass pool fencing runs $7,000 to $12,000. Most homeowners land on Colorbond or hardwood timber as the best value for boundary fences.
2. Fence Height
Standard boundary fences are 1.8 metres (6 feet) high. Increasing height to 2.1 or 2.4 metres for extra privacy adds 15 to 30 percent to the fence cost because taller panels need deeper footings, heavier posts, and may require engineering certification for wind loads. Some councils restrict maximum fence height, particularly for front fences (typically 1.2 metres in residential zones).
3. Site Conditions
Flat, accessible sites with soft soil are the cheapest to fence. Rocky ground, heavy clay, or sandy soils increase footing costs by $20 to $50 per post. Sloping blocks require stepped panels (Colorbond) or raked panels (timber, aluminium) that add 10 to 20 percent to labour costs. Limited access adds 10 to 15 percent because materials must be carried by hand.
4. Fence Length
Longer fence runs benefit from economies of scale. A fencer’s mobilisation fee ($150 to $400) and setup costs are spread across more metres. A 10-metre fence costs more per metre than a 40-metre fence using identical materials and conditions.
5. Old Fence Removal
Removing an existing fence adds $10 to $30 per metre for timber and $15 to $40 per metre for Colorbond (due to concrete footing removal). A full 40-metre perimeter removal costs $400 to $1,600. Asbestos cement fencing (common in homes built before 1990) requires licensed asbestos removal at $50 to $100 per metre, plus disposal fees of $200 to $500 per tonne.
6. Post Type and Footings
Steel posts with concrete footings are standard for Colorbond. Treated pine posts suit timber fences. Premium options include galvanised steel posts ($25 to $50 each) or brick/rendered pillars ($300 to $800 each). Each post requires a concrete footing ($15 to $40 in materials), with depth depending on soil type and fence height.
7. Your Location
Labour rates and material transport costs vary across Australia. Sydney and Melbourne tradies charge 10 to 20 percent more than the national average. Regional and remote areas add freight surcharges for material delivery. Cyclone-rated areas in northern Australia require engineered fencing that meets specific wind load ratings.
8. Gates and Fittings
A standard pedestrian gate adds $200 to $600 to the fence cost. A double (driveway) gate costs $500 to $1,500 depending on material and automation. Sliding driveway gates with motorised openers range from $2,000 to $6,000 and need a licensed electrician for the power connection. Pool gates must be self-closing with compliant latches (AS 1926.1), adding $300 to $800 for the gate alone.
Regional Cost Comparison
Fence cost varies across Australia. Here is how the major capital cities compare for a standard 20-metre Colorbond fence at 1.8 metres high (supply and install, including concrete footings and one pedestrian gate).
| City | Typical Installed Cost (20m) | Compared to National Average |
|---|---|---|
| Sydney | $2,800–$4,200 | 15–20% higher |
| Melbourne | $2,600–$3,800 | 10–15% higher |
| Brisbane | $2,000–$3,200 | Close to average |
| Perth | $2,100–$3,300 | Close to average |
| Adelaide | $1,900–$3,000 | 5–10% lower |
| Hobart | $2,200–$3,400 | 5–10% higher |
| Canberra | $2,100–$3,300 | Close to average |
| Darwin | $2,500–$3,800 | 10–15% higher |
Sydney’s premium reflects higher labour rates and difficult access on many suburban blocks. Darwin’s costs are elevated by freight charges and limited fencing contractor availability. Melbourne’s slightly lower premium compared to Sydney is offset by stricter permit requirements for front fences in heritage overlay zones.
Dividing Fences: Sharing Costs with Your Neighbour
One of the biggest questions homeowners ask about fence cost is whether their neighbour has to pay half. The short answer is yes, in most cases, but the process matters.
Every state and territory has a Dividing Fences Act (or equivalent) requiring both property owners to contribute equally to a “sufficient” dividing fence. A standard 1.8-metre Colorbond or timber paling fence qualifies as sufficient in most residential areas. If you want a higher standard (rendered brick pillars, for example), you pay the difference.
The notice process. Before starting work, serve a written fencing notice on your neighbour describing the proposed work, materials, estimated cost, and their share. Your neighbour has 30 days to respond. If they disagree or do not respond, apply to your state tribunal (NCAT in NSW, VCAT in VIC, QCAT in QLD) for a fencing order.
Key state variations:
- NSW: Dividing Fences Act 1991. NCAT handles disputes.
- VIC: Fences Act 1968 (amended 2014). VCAT handles disputes. Includes “urgent fencing” provision for emergency repairs.
- QLD: Neighbourhood Disputes (Dividing Fences and Trees) Act 2011. QCAT handles disputes.
- WA: Dividing Fences Act 1961. Magistrates Court handles disputes.
- SA: Fences Act 1975. Costs split equally for a sufficient fence.
Practical tip: get three quotes before approaching your neighbour. Present the middle quote as the proposed option.
Pool Fencing: Compliance Costs
Pool fencing must comply with Australian Standard AS 1926.1 (Swimming Pool Safety). Non-compliant pool fencing can result in fines of $5,500 to $22,000, and your insurer may refuse claims for pool-related incidents.
Key AS 1926.1 requirements: minimum height 1.2 metres, no gaps wider than 100mm, 900mm non-climbable zone on the outside, self-closing and self-latching gate opening away from the pool, and latch release at least 1.5 metres above ground.
Pool fence costs by type:
| Pool Fence Type | Cost per Metre (Installed) | Total for Typical Pool (30m perimeter) |
|---|---|---|
| Aluminium tubular | $180–$300 | $5,400–$9,000 |
| Semi-frameless glass | $250–$450 | $7,500–$13,500 |
| Frameless glass | $350–$600+ | $10,500–$18,000+ |
A pool barrier compliance inspection costs $150 to $400 and is required in most states before you can use the pool. Many councils also require annual compliance certificates. A licensed fencer experienced in pool barriers will ensure the installation meets AS 1926.1 from the start. If you are building a new pool, your swimming pool builder can often coordinate fencing as part of the project.
How to Get Accurate Quotes
Getting an accurate fence cost starts with clear communication. Follow these steps to compare quotes fairly.
Get at least three quotes. If one quote is 30 percent below the others, check what is excluded (concrete footings, old fence removal, gate hardware).
Confirm licensing. In QLD, all fencing work over $3,300 requires a QBCC-licensed contractor. In NSW, the threshold is $5,000. Verify your fencer on the TradieVerify directory or check with your state regulator.
Request itemised quotes. A good quote separates materials, labour, old fence removal, and permit costs so you can compare line by line.
Mark the boundary clearly. Fences built on the wrong side of the boundary cause disputes and can require relocation. A licensed surveyor ($300 to $800) can peg the boundary if there is any doubt.
Specify gate requirements upfront. Confirm the number, width, swing direction, and whether you need automation. Pool gates have specific AS 1926.1 compliance requirements.
Hidden Costs and Exclusions
Budget blowouts happen when items not in the original quote appear during construction. These hidden costs catch homeowners off guard.
Old fence removal. Many quotes assume the old fence is already gone. Removal adds $10 to $30 per metre for timber, $15 to $40 per metre for Colorbond. Asbestos cement fence removal requires a licensed removalist at $50 to $100 per metre.
Rock or root removal. Post holes hitting rock or tree roots add $30 to $80 per post for excavation. On a 40-metre fence with 17 posts, that adds $500 to $1,360.
Retaining walls. On sloping blocks, a timber sleeper retaining wall under the fence adds $50 to $150 per metre. A licensed landscaper or licensed builder can handle retaining walls over 600mm high.
Stormwater and drainage. Solid fences can redirect water flow on sloping sites. If fencing disrupts existing drainage, a licensed plumber may need to redirect stormwater ($500 to $1,500).
Permit and surveyor fees. Boundary surveys cost $300 to $800. Heritage overlay areas may require council design approval ($200 to $500).
Tips to Save Money on Your Fence
Reducing your fence cost does not mean settling for poor quality. These strategies deliver genuine savings.
Share the cost with your neighbour. Under the Dividing Fences Act, your neighbour must contribute equally to a sufficient boundary fence. Serve the formal fencing notice to protect your legal right to contribution.
Choose Colorbond for boundary fences. At $75 to $120 per metre, its 20 to 30 year lifespan and zero painting requirement make it the cheapest option over time. Treated pine needs repainting every 3 to 5 years ($15 to $30 per metre).
Keep fence height at 1.8 metres. Going taller adds 15 to 30 percent to the fence cost and may trigger permit requirements.
Bundle boundary and pool fencing. Booking with the same fencer saves on mobilisation fees. Many contractors offer 5 to 10 percent discount on combined projects.
Book during quieter months. April to August bookings often attract more competitive pricing and faster turnaround.
Reuse existing posts. If steel or concrete posts are structurally sound, replacing only the panels saves significantly. This works well for Colorbond panel replacement on existing posts.
State-by-State Licensing and Regulations
Fencing regulations and licensing requirements vary across Australia. Here is what applies in each state and territory.
NSW. Fencing work over $5,000 requires a Fair Trading licensed contractor. Front fences limited to 1.2 metres without approval. Pool fencing requires council registration under the Swimming Pools Act 1992.
VIC. Building work over $10,000 requires a registered domestic builder. Pool barriers require a building permit and compliance certificate.
QLD. All fencing work over $3,300 requires a QBCC licence, the strictest threshold nationally. Councils conduct annual pool barrier compliance inspections.
WA. Fencing work over $1,000 requires a registered building contractor, the lowest threshold nationally. Four-yearly pool barrier compliance checks mandatory since 2016.
SA. Licensing required for all residential building work with no minimum dollar threshold.
ACT. Construction occupations licensing applies. Pool barriers must comply with the Building Act 2004.
TAS. Building work licensing through the Director of Building Control. Pool barriers regulated under the Building Act 2016.
NT. Building work regulated by NT Building Advisory Services. Pool fencing must comply with the Swimming Pool Safety Act 2004.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Colorbond fence cost per metre in Australia?
A standard 1.8-metre Colorbond fence costs $75 to $120 per metre installed, including steel posts, concrete footings, rails, and panels. For a 20-metre boundary fence, expect $1,500 to $2,400. Premium colours and heights above 1.8 metres cost more. Old fence removal adds $15 to $40 per metre.
Does my neighbour have to pay half the fence cost?
Yes, in most cases. Every Australian state and territory has legislation (commonly called the Dividing Fences Act) requiring neighbours to share the cost of a sufficient boundary fence equally. You must serve a formal fencing notice before starting work. If your neighbour refuses to pay, you can apply to your state tribunal (NCAT, VCAT, QCAT, or equivalent) for a fencing order. If you want a fence above the sufficient standard, you pay the difference.
How much does pool fencing cost in Australia?
Pool fencing costs $180 to $600+ per metre. Aluminium tubular runs $180 to $300 per metre, semi-frameless glass $250 to $450, and frameless glass $350 to $600+. A typical pool (30-metre perimeter) costs $5,400 to $18,000 for compliant fencing meeting AS 1926.1.
Do I need council approval to build a fence?
It depends on the fence type and your location. Standard boundary fences up to 1.8 metres generally do not require council approval in most states. Front fences above 1.2 metres, pool fences, fences in heritage overlay zones, and fences over 2.1 metres typically do require approval. Always check with your local council before starting, as rules vary between municipalities even within the same state.
How long does it take to install a new fence?
A standard 20 to 30 metre boundary fence takes 1 to 2 days for a two-person crew. A full perimeter fence (40 to 60 metres) takes 2 to 4 days. Pool fencing takes 1 to 3 days depending on material and site conditions. Add time for old fence removal (half to one day for a full perimeter) and any retaining wall work. Council approval, if required, adds 2 to 6 weeks before construction can start.
Is Colorbond or timber fencing better value?
Colorbond offers better long-term value for most homeowners. While the upfront fence cost is similar ($75 to $120 for Colorbond versus $50 to $150 for timber), Colorbond requires no painting and lasts 20 to 30 years. Timber needs repainting every 3 to 5 years ($15 to $30 per metre) and may need paling replacement after 15 years. Timber is the better choice on sloping blocks where raked panels follow the ground line more naturally than stepped Colorbond.
Related Guides
- How to Hire a Licensed Landscaper — Our landscaper hiring guide
- Building Permits and Approvals — Our building permits guide
- How to Hire a Licensed Carpenter — Our carpenter hiring guide
Sources
- HIA. Housing Industry Association Building Costs Guide 2025. hia.com.au
- QBCC. Licensing Requirements for Fencing Work. qbcc.qld.gov.au
- NSW Fair Trading. Home Building Licensing. fairtrading.nsw.gov.au
- Standards Australia. AS 1926.1: Swimming Pool Safety — Safety Barriers for Swimming Pools. standards.org.au
- NSW Legislation. Dividing Fences Act 1991. legislation.nsw.gov.au
- VBA. Building Permits and Registration. vba.vic.gov.au
- Master Builders Australia. Residential Construction Costs 2025. masterbuilders.com.au
- Australian Competition and Consumer Commission. Australian Consumer Law: Services. accc.gov.au