Carpenter Cost Australia 2026
Carpentry costs depend on the job type — hourly for small repairs, fixed-price for defined projects like decking and cabinetry. Materials are usually additional.
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National Pricing Overview
| Service | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpentry (hourly rate) | $55/hr | $85 | $130 |
| Door installation (supply & fit) | $250per door | $400 | $650 |
| Door repair / rehang | $100per job | $180 | $300 |
| Skirting boards (per linear metre) | $20/lm | $30 | $55 |
| Architraves (per linear metre) | $10/lm | $18 | $45 |
| Built-in wardrobe (supply & install) | $1,200total | $2,500 | $5,000 |
| Timber shelving installation | $200per job | $400 | $700 |
| Minor staircase repairs (squeaky or loose treads, single tread or baluster) | $300per job | $600 | $1,200 |
| Pergola / carport framing (labour) | $1,500total | $3,000 | $6,000 |
| Timber window repair | $150per job | $280 | $500 |
| Deck build labour (per sqm) | $80/sqm | $130 | $190 |
| Full-day carpentry | $400per day | $620 | $900 |
How carpenter prices compare across 17 cities, the $55–$130 hourly band against every other trade and how they move month to month: Tradie Price Index, October 2026 →
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A carpenter in Australia charges $55–$130/hr for standard residential work. Common jobs include door installation ($250–$650), timber decking and pergolas ($1,500–$6,000 framing labour), and custom cabinetry and joinery ($12,000–$35,000). For structural carpentry such as framing, check the licence your state's building regulator requires.
We've compiled pricing from carpenters and joiners across Australia as of October 2026. All prices include GST.
What Affects Carpenter Costs in Australia
Job type
Simple repairs and installations in Australia are usually billed hourly. Larger defined projects like decking, pergolas, and custom cabinetry are usually quoted as a fixed price once the scope is clear.
Materials
Carpenter quotes in Australia may or may not include materials. Timber, hardware, and fixings are usually charged separately at cost plus a handling margin. Always clarify what's included.
Experience & specialisation
A highly experienced carpenter or joiner in Australia commands higher rates but can tackle complex work like custom cabinetry, heritage restoration, and structural framing. Basic handyman carpentry is cheaper.
Site conditions
Difficult access, steep sites, demolition of existing structures, and working around existing finishes all increase labour time in Australia. Mention any complications when requesting quotes.
Custom vs standard work
Off-the-shelf or standard timber products are quicker to install. Custom joinery and furniture are more labour-intensive and expensive, but provide a perfect fit and finish.
Licencing requirements
In Australia, licensing for structural carpentry such as framing and load-bearing work is set by your state's building regulator. Always check your carpenter's licence for structural work.
How to Save Money on Carpenter Cost in Australia
From the Homeowner Hub
Common Carpentry Costs in Australia (2026)
| Job | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Decking (per m²) | $200–$800 |
| Pergola (3x3m basic) | $3,000–$6,000 |
| Pergola (4x6m with roof) | $8,000–$18,000 |
| Internal door installation | $200–$600 per door |
| External door installation | $500–$1,500 per door |
| Window installation | $300–$1,000 per window |
| Built-in wardrobe | $1,200–$5,000 |
| Staircase (timber) | $3,000–$12,000 |
| Timber flooring installation | $60–$130 per m² |
| Fence (timber paling) | $75–$200 per metre |
| Shelving and storage | $500–$2,500 |
| Structural repairs (per day) | $400–$800 |
When to hire a carpenter vs builder: Carpenters handle individual timber and structural tasks — decks, pergolas, doors, windows, flooring, and framing. If your project involves multiple trades (plumbing, electrical, tiling) or requires a building permit, a registered builder who coordinates all trades may be more efficient.