Independent Australian Cost Guides
Updated February 2026
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Fencing Cost Australia 2026

Fencing costs in Australia are usually quoted per linear metre. Material choice, fence height, terrain, and whether old fencing needs removal all affect the final price.

Choose Your City

Location pin — Sydney
Sydney
From $138 per metre
-0.7%
Location pin — Melbourne
Melbourne
From $126 per metre
-0.4%
Location pin — Brisbane
Brisbane
From $120 per metre
+1.6%
Location pin — Perth
Perth
From $126 per metre
+3.2%
Location pin — Adelaide
Adelaide
From $110 per metre
+3.3%
Location pin — Gold Coast
Gold Coast
From $118 per metre
-0.6%
Location pin — Canberra
Canberra
From $132 per metre
+0.8%
Location pin — Hobart
Hobart
From $108 per metre
+1.5%
Location pin — Darwin
Darwin
From $138 per metre
-0.9%
Location pin — Newcastle
Newcastle
From $114 per metre
+1.4%
Location pin — Geelong
Geelong
From $112 per metre
-0.7%
Location pin — Sunshine Coast
Sunshine Coast
From $116 per metre
+3.3%

National Pricing Overview

ServiceLowHighAverage
Colorbond fence (1.8m standard)$75$120$95 /metre
Timber paling fence (1.8m)$80$150$110 /metre
Hardwood timber fence$120$250$170 /metre
Picket fence (1.2m)$80$150$110 /metre
Glass pool fencing (frameless)$300$600$450 /metre
Glass pool fencing (semi-frameless)$200$400$280 /metre
Aluminium slat fence$100$200$140 /metre
Chain link / wire fence$30$80$50 /metre
Retaining wall (timber)$150$400$250 /metre
Gate — pedestrian (Colorbond)$300$800$500 per gate
Gate — driveway (sliding)$1,500$5,000$2,800 per gate
Old fence removal$15$45$25 /metre

National average prices. Select a city above for location-specific pricing.

Fencing costs in Australia vary widely depending on the material, height, terrain, and total length. A standard 1.8m Colorbond fence — the most popular choice — costs $75–$150 per linear metre installed. Timber fencing runs $80–$180 per metre, while premium options like aluminium slat or glass pool fencing can exceed $300–$600 per metre. The national average for a typical suburban boundary fence is around $100 per metre.

Boundary fencing is one of the few home improvements that's governed by specific legislation in every state. Under dividing fence laws, the cost is generally shared equally between neighbours for a standard adequate fence.

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What Affects Fencing Costs

Material type

Colorbond steel is the most popular ($75–$150/m). Timber costs $80–$180/m. Aluminium slat fencing runs $150–$350/m. Glass pool fencing is $300–$600+/m.

Fence height

Standard fences are 1.8m. Front fences are often lower (1.2m). Fences over 2m may require council approval and cost proportionally more.

Terrain & slope

Flat ground is cheapest. Sloping blocks require stepped or raked panels, which add complexity and cost. Rocky ground makes post-hole digging more expensive.

Length of fence

Longer runs are cheaper per metre because setup and mobilisation costs are spread across more panels. Short sections (under 10m) attract a higher per-metre rate.

Old fence removal

Removing and disposing of an existing fence adds $15–$40 per metre to the project. Some installers include this in their quote; others charge separately.

Council & neighbour requirements

Some councils restrict front fence heights and materials. Boundary fences are subject to dividing fence legislation, and your neighbour is generally liable for half the cost of a standard fence.

How to Save Money on Fencing Costs

1
Talk to your neighbour before getting quotes — dividing fence costs are usually shared 50/50 under state law
2
Check council regulations on fence height, style, and setback requirements before committing
3
Get at least 3 quotes and ensure they include post depth, concrete footings, and old fence removal
4
Colorbond is the best value for boundary fencing — low maintenance, long-lasting, and cost-effective
5
Front fences have different rules — check your council's policies on height and material restrictions
6
Ask about powder-coating or galvanising options for metal fences to extend their lifespan
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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Colorbond fencing cost per metre?
Colorbond fencing costs $75–$150 per linear metre installed, depending on height, colour, and your location. Standard 1.8m panels in a common colour are at the lower end; premium colours and taller panels cost more.
Does my neighbour have to pay half for a new fence?
Under dividing fence legislation in every Australian state, neighbours generally share the cost equally for a standard adequate fence. If you want a higher standard than required, you pay the difference.
Do I need council approval for a fence?
Standard boundary fences up to 2m generally don't need council approval. Front fences, fences over 2m, and fences near driveways or corners may require a permit. Pool fencing must comply with strict safety standards.
How long does a Colorbond fence last?
A Colorbond fence typically lasts 20–30+ years with minimal maintenance. BlueScope Steel offers warranties of up to 10 years on standard colours and longer on premium ranges.
What's the cheapest type of fencing in Australia?
Treated pine paling fencing is the cheapest option at $50–$90 per metre installed. Colorbond is slightly more expensive but lasts significantly longer and requires almost no maintenance, making it better value over time.

About This Guide

Our fencing cost guides cover 12 major Australian cities with location-adjusted pricing. Updated quarterly — last reviewed February 2026.