Carpentry costs depend on the job type — hourly for small repairs, fixed-price for defined projects like decking and cabinetry. Materials are usually additional.
Prices verified 2026-03-18 · Cross-referenced against 90+ Australian trade pricing sources · See methodology
National average prices. Select a city above for location-specific pricing.
A carpenter in Australia charges $55–$130/hr for standard residential work. Common jobs include door installation ($250–$650), timber decking and pergolas ($100–$300), and custom cabinetry and joinery ($20–$55). Structural carpentry (framing, roofing) requires a licensed builder in most states.
We've compiled pricing from carpenters and joiners across Australia, plus hipages, ServiceSeeking, and Airtasker listings as of June 2026. All prices include GST.
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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
Structural carpentry (framing, roofing, load-bearing elements) in Australia requires a licensed builder in most states. Always check your carpenter's licence for structural work.
How to Save Money on Carpenter in Australia
1
Get quotes from experienced Australia carpenters — confirm whether materials are included
2
Ask for a fixed price for defined projects (decking, pergola) rather than hourly
3
Check your carpenter holds the right licence for structural work in Australia
4
Agree on the timber species and grade before work starts — this significantly affects cost
5
Have your plans or rough drawings ready — clearer briefs lead to more accurate Australia quotes
6
Ask about lead times for custom joinery — it's often made off-site and can take 4–8 weeks
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.
Before you commit — compare your options
Side-by-side guides covering the decisions that most change your final carpenter cost.
How much does a carpenter cost per hour in Australia?
A carpenter in Australia charges $55–$130 per hour depending on experience, job type, and whether specialised skills or tools are required. More experienced carpenters may charge more but work faster.
How much does door installation cost in Australia?
Door installation in Australia costs $250–$650 for a standard pre-hung door. This includes hanging, fitting hardware, and adjusting the frame. Custom or oversized doors cost more.
How much do built-in wardrobes cost in Australia?
Built-in wardrobes in Australia cost $800–$3,500 supply and install, depending on the size, timber type, and internal fittings. Custom joinery is at the higher end; modular systems are cheaper.
Do I need a licensed carpenter or can a handyman do the work?
Handymen can handle basic carpentry tasks like shelf installation, minor repairs, and furniture assembly. Structural carpentry, roofing, and load-bearing work requires a licensed carpenter or builder in Australia.
How much does timber deck framing cost in Australia?
Deck framing in Australia costs $60–$140/sqm for labour only. A 20sqm deck frame costs approximately $60 x 20 to $140 x 20 in labour, plus materials. Full deck supply and install costs considerably more.
How long does it take to install a door in Australia?
A standard door installation in Australia takes 1–2 hours for an experienced carpenter. If the frame needs adjusting, the rough opening widening, or new hardware fitting, it can take half a day.
How much does a carpenter charge per hour in Australia?
Carpenters in Australia charge $55–$100 per hour in 2026, depending on location and experience. Sydney and Melbourne sit at the higher end ($65–$100/hr), while Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth range $55–$85/hr. Specialist carpenters (heritage restoration, custom furniture) charge $80–$120/hr. Most carpenters quote per project rather than hourly for larger jobs.
How much does decking cost in Australia?
Decking in Australia costs $200–$800 per square metre installed, depending on material. Treated pine is cheapest at $200–$350/m². Hardwood (merbau, spotted gum) costs $350–$600/m². Composite decking costs $300–$550/m². A typical 20m² deck costs $4,000–$16,000 including frame, bearers, and balustrade.
How much does a pergola cost in Australia?
Pergola construction in Australia costs $5,000–$20,000 depending on size and material. A basic timber pergola (3x3m) costs $3,000–$6,000. A larger hardwood or steel pergola (4x6m) with roofing costs $8,000–$18,000. Insulated roofing (Stratco Outback, Lysaght) adds $3,000–$6,000 but creates a year-round outdoor room.
How much does door and window installation cost in Australia?
Door installation costs $200–$600 per door for standard internal doors, or $500–$1,500 for external doors including frame modifications. Window installation or replacement costs $300–$1,000 per window depending on size and frame type. Sliding door installation costs $500–$2,000. These prices cover carpentry labour only — door and window units are extra.