How much does a bricklaying cost in Canberra?
Bricklaying in Canberra costs $61–$145 per sqm for standard work (labour only). For smaller jobs, hourly rates run $50–$110/hr. Large projects are often quoted per 1,000 bricks at $990–$1,975 labour. Bricks, mortar, and materials are usually charged separately on top of labour.
Common bricklaying jobs in Canberra include: Bricklaying (per 1,000 bricks, labour): $990–$1,975 /1000 bricks · Bricklaying (per sqm, standard): $61–$145 /sqm · Garden feature wall (per sqm): $88–$240 /sqm. All prices include GST and are based on Canberra metro rates, March 2026.
Prices vary by up to 30% depending on job complexity, your suburb within Canberra, and the tradie's experience. Always get at least 3 quotes — compare free Canberra quotes here.
Detailed Pricing — Canberra 2026
| Service | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bricklaying (hourly rate) | $50/hr | $72 | $110 |
| Bricklaying (per 1,000 bricks, labour) | $990/1000 bricks | $1,425 | $1,975 |
| Bricklaying (per sqm, standard) | $61/sqm | $99 | $145 |
| Garden feature wall (per sqm) | $88/sqm | $155 | $240 |
| Brick retaining wall (per sqm) | $130/sqm | $220 | $385 |
| Brick veneer (new home, per sqm) | $55/sqm | $77 | $110 |
| Brick pointing / repointing (per sqm) | $33/sqm | $61 | $99 |
| Brick repair (per brick) | $16per brick | $33 | $66 |
| Brick letterbox (supply & lay) | $440total | $880 | $1,650 |
| Brick BBQ / fireplace | $1,650total | $3,300 | $6,600 |
| Damp-proof course installation | $550total | $1,100 | $2,200 |
| Full-day bricklaying | $440per day | $605 | $935 |
Prices include GST. Based on Canberra metro area, Mar 2026. Outer suburbs may vary.
What Affects Bricklaying Costs in Canberra
Labour vs supply & install
Most Canberra bricklayers quote labour only — bricks, mortar, sand, and fixings are charged separately. Always confirm whether your quote is labour only or supply and install. A full supply-and-install quote is easier to compare.
Wall type
Simple garden feature walls are cheaper to lay than complex structures. Double brick, curved walls, arched openings, and decorative brickwork in Canberra require more skill and attract higher rates.
Brick type
Standard clay bricks are the most common. Feature bricks, heritage restoration bricks, and oversized formats cost more and take longer to lay. Face brick (visible) work requires higher precision than backing work.
Repointing & repairs
Repointing worn mortar joints costs $61–$145/sqm in Canberra for basic walls. It's far cheaper than rebuilding walls — worth doing to prevent water ingress and structural issues.
Site access
Scaffolding, restricted access, or demolition of existing work before rebuilding adds significantly to Canberra bricklaying costs. Mention any site constraints when getting quotes.
Licensing for structural work
In most states, structural brickwork (load-bearing walls, foundations, retaining walls over a certain height) requires a licensed builder or registered bricklayer. Check licensing requirements for your project.
How to Save Money on Bricklaying in Canberra
Frequently Asked Questions
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 March 2026. Read our full methodology →