How much does an air conditioning cost in Newcastle?
The average air conditioning in Newcastle charges around $2,375 installed for a standard 5kW split system (supply + install). Prices vary based on the specific job, time of day, materials required, and your suburb within Newcastle. Below you'll find a detailed breakdown of common air conditioning costs, what factors affect pricing, and tips on how to get the best deal.
| Service | Low | High | Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Split system — supply + install (2.5kW) | $665 | $1,425 | $1,045 installed |
| Split system — supply + install (5kW) | $1,140 | $2,090 | $1,615 installed |
| Split system — supply + install (7kW+) | $1,710 | $3,325 | $2,375 installed |
| Multi-split system (2–3 heads) | $2,850 | $6,650 | $4,275 installed |
| Ducted system (small home) | $4,750 | $9,500 | $7,125 installed |
| Ducted system (large home) | $9,500 | $19,000 | $13,300 installed |
| Service / clean (split) | $76 | $190 | $124 per unit |
| Service / clean (ducted) | $143 | $333 | $209 per system |
| Re-gas | $190 | $475 | $285 per unit |
| Old unit removal | $95 | $333 | $190 per unit |
| Thermostat / controller upgrade | $190 | $570 | $333 installed |
| Emergency repair | $190 | $570 | $333 per visit |
Prices include GST. Based on Newcastle metro area, Feb 2026. Outer suburbs may vary.
System type
Split systems are cheapest to install. Multi-splits serve multiple rooms from one outdoor unit. Ducted systems are the most expensive but provide whole-home climate control.
Capacity (kW)
A bedroom needs 2.5kW, a living room 5–7kW, and a large open-plan area 7–10kW. Undersizing means the unit works harder and costs more to run.
Installation complexity
Back-to-back installs (indoor unit on the other side of the wall from the outdoor unit) are cheapest. Long pipe runs, multi-storey installs, and roof-mounted outdoor units cost more.
Electrical requirements
Larger units (7kW+) may need a dedicated circuit or switchboard upgrade, adding $200–$800.
Brand
Budget brands (Kelvinator, Hisense) cost 30–40% less than premium brands (Daikin, Mitsubishi Electric) but may not last as long or be as efficient.
Time of year
Installers are busiest in summer and winter. Spring and autumn installs may be cheaper and faster.
Our Methodology
Prices on this page are compiled from publicly available cost guides, tradie marketplaces (ServiceSeeking, hipages, Airtasker, Service.com.au), industry body data (HIA, Master Builders), and individual tradesperson websites across Australia. We cross-reference ranges from multiple sources and adjust for city-specific cost differences based on advertised rates, salary data, and cost-of-living indicators. Our guides are independently produced — we don't employ tradespeople and have no financial incentive to inflate or deflate prices. All prices are estimates and will vary based on your specific job. Always get at least 3 quotes. Last reviewed February 2026. Read our full methodology →