Kitchen Renovation Cost in Australia (2026 Price Guide)
Renovating a kitchen is one of the most common home improvement projects in Australia. Kitchens are the heart of the home, and upgrading them can improve both daily functionality and property value. Costs vary depending on kitchen size, materials, appliances, and whether layout changes are needed. Simple cosmetic updates may start around $10,000, while full high-end renovations with custom cabinets and premium finishes can exceed $80,000. Most mid-range projects fall between $25,000 and $45,000. Understanding typical costs, cost breakdowns, and key factors can help homeowners plan their budget and avoid surprises during their kitchen renovation.
How Much Does a Kitchen Renovation Cost in Australia?
- $25,000–$45,000 for a mid-range project
- Around $10,000 for small cosmetic updates
- $80,000+ for luxury renovations with custom cabinetry and premium appliances
Factors affecting cost include:
- Kitchen size
- Cabinet materials
- Benchtop surfaces
- Appliances
- Plumbing and electrical changes
Average Kitchen Renovation Cost in Australia
| Renovation Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Budget kitchen renovation | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Mid-range kitchen renovation | $25,000 – $45,000 |
| Luxury kitchen renovation | $45,000 – $80,000+ |
Budget renovations: cosmetic improvements like painting cabinets, laminate benchtops, and new taps.
Mid-range renovations: new cabinetry, stone benchtops, upgraded appliances, modern lighting.
Luxury renovations: custom cabinetry, high-end materials, integrated appliances, layout redesigns.
- | For kitchen remodel check our article
Kitchen Renovation Cost Breakdown
| Component | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Cabinetry | $8,000 – $25,000 |
| Benchtops | $2,000 – $10,000 |
| Appliances | $3,000 – $12,000 |
| Splashback | $800 – $3,000 |
| Plumbing | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Electrical | $1,500 – $4,000 |
| Flooring | $2,000 – $6,000 |
| Painting & finishing | $1,000 – $3,000 |
Tip: Cabinetry is usually the most expensive component, representing 30–40% of the total renovation cost.
Kitchen Renovation Cost Per Square Metre
| Kitchen Size | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Small (6–8 m²) | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Medium (8–15 m²) | $25,000 – $45,000 |
| Large (15+ m²) | $45,000 – $80,000+ |
Larger kitchens require more cabinets, benchtops, and labour. Smaller kitchens may have higher cost per square metre due to fixed costs like appliances and plumbing.
Kitchen Renovation Cost by City
- Sydney: $30,000 – $60,000 (highest due to labour and materials)
- Melbourne: $25,000 – $50,000
- Brisbane: $20,000 – $45,000
Most Expensive Parts of a Kitchen Renovation
- Custom cabinetry – 30–40% of budget
- Stone benchtops – quartz, granite, marble
- High-quality appliances – integrated ovens, induction cooktops
- Layout changes – moving plumbing/electrical increases labour costs
- | Also check our article ” What makes a kitchen expensive“
How to Reduce Kitchen Renovation Costs
- Keep the existing layout to avoid plumbing/electrical changes
- Reface cabinets instead of full replacement
- Choose cost-effective materials like laminate benchtops
- Reuse appliances if still functional
Kitchen Renovation Cost Calculator
Kitchen Renovation Timeline |
|
|---|---|
| Stage | Duration |
| Planning & budgeting | 1–3 weeks |
| Design | 1–2 weeks |
| Demolition | 1–3 days |
| Construction & installation | 2–4 weeks |
| Final finishing | 3–5 days |
Complex projects or custom cabinetry may extend the timeline.
Is a Kitchen Renovation Worth It?
A modern kitchen can increase property value by 5–15%, improve usability, and make the home more attractive to buyers. Even small upgrades like new benchtops or cabinet doors enhance aesthetics and functionality.
Kitchen Renovation FAQ
Q1: How much does a kitchen renovation cost in Australia?
A: Most renovations cost between $25,000–$45,000 depending on size, materials, and design.
Q2: Can you renovate a kitchen for $10,000?
A: Yes, for small cosmetic updates only — painting cabinets, replacing handles, and upgrading benchtops.
Q3: What is the most expensive part of a kitchen renovation?
A: Cabinetry is usually the costliest, representing 30–40% of the total budget.
Q4: How long does a kitchen renovation take?
A: Most projects take 3–6 weeks, depending on complexity and materials.
Q5: How can I reduce renovation costs?
A: Keep the layout, reface cabinets, choose cost-effective materials, and reuse appliances if possible.