How much does a kitchen renovation cost in Canberra?
Updated February 2026· Independently researched·8 min read
A mid-range kitchen renovation in Canberra costs $28,000–$50,400
for a complete mid-range fitout
Budget refreshes (resurfacing + paint) start around $8,000. Premium custom kitchens with stone benchtops and high-end appliances typically run $50,000–$80,000+.
+5.9%Kitchen Renovation costs in Canberra have risen this quarter, driven by strong construction activity and trade shortages.Q1 2026 vs Q4 2025
The average kitchen renovation in Canberra charges around $38,500 total for a mid-range kitchen renovation. Prices vary based on the specific job, time of day, materials required, and your suburb within Canberra. Below you'll find a detailed breakdown of common kitchen renovation costs, what factors affect pricing, and tips on how to get the best deal.
Detailed Pricing — Canberra 2026
Service
Low
High
Average
Cosmetic refresh (reface + paint)
$8,800
$22,000
$15,400 total
Budget renovation (flat-pack)
$13,200
$27,500
$19,800 total
Mid-range renovation
$27,500
$49,500
$38,500 total
Premium renovation
$49,500
$88,000
$66,000 total
Luxury / high-end
$88,000
$165,000
$110,000 total
Custom cabinetry
$8,800
$27,500
$16,500 total
Benchtop — laminate
$880
$2,200
$1,320 total
Benchtop — stone
$2,200
$6,600
$3,850 total
Splashback (tiled)
$880
$2,750
$1,650 total
Splashback (glass)
$1,650
$4,400
$2,750 total
Plumbing rough-in
$2,200
$5,500
$3,300 total
Electrical rough-in
$1,650
$4,400
$2,750 total
Flooring (per sqm)
$44
$132
$77 /sqm
Demolition & disposal
$1,650
$4,400
$2,750 total
Prices include GST. Based on Canberra metro area, Feb 2026. Outer suburbs may vary.
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What Affects Kitchen Renovation Costs in Canberra
Kitchen size
A standard 10–15sqm kitchen costs less to renovate than a large open-plan kitchen. Every extra linear metre of cabinetry adds $1,000–$3,000.
Cabinetry quality
The biggest cost driver. Flat-pack from Bunnings vs. custom-built by a cabinet maker can be a $10,000–$20,000 difference.
Benchtop material
Laminate ($800–$2,000) vs. engineered stone ($2,000–$6,000) vs. natural stone ($4,000–$10,000). This is where budgets blow out.
Layout changes
Moving the sink, stove, or fridge position requires new plumbing and electrical, adding $3,000–$8,000 to the job.
Appliances
Appliances are often excluded from renovation quotes. Budget $3,000–$15,000 on top for oven, cooktop, rangehood, and dishwasher.
Structural work
Removing walls, adding windows, or changing ceiling height adds significant cost and requires engineering.
How to Save Money on Kitchen Renovation in Canberra
1
Keep the existing layout to avoid costly plumbing and electrical relocations
2
Get at least 3 detailed, itemised quotes — not just a lump sum
3
Consider a cosmetic refresh (new doors, benchtop, splashback) if cabinets are structurally sound
4
Set aside 10–15% of your budget as a contingency for unexpected issues
5
Don't forget to budget for appliances separately — they're often excluded from quotes
6
Check if your renovator is a licensed builder (required for work over $5,000–$20,000 depending on state)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an average kitchen renovation cost in Canberra?
A mid-range kitchen renovation in Canberra typically costs $25,000–$45,000. Budget renovations start around $12,000 while premium renovations can exceed $80,000.
How long does a kitchen renovation take?
A typical kitchen renovation in Canberra takes 4–8 weeks from demolition to completion. Complex renovations with structural changes can take 10–12 weeks.
What's the cheapest way to renovate a kitchen?
A cosmetic refresh — refacing cabinet doors, new benchtop, fresh paint, and a new splashback — costs $8,000–$20,000 and can transform the look without a full renovation.
Do I need council approval for a kitchen renovation?
Generally not for cosmetic changes. However, structural work (removing walls, changing windows) or significant plumbing/electrical changes may require a building permit. Check with your local council.
Is it worth renovating my kitchen before selling?
Kitchen renovations typically return 50–80% of their cost in added property value. A mid-range renovation offers the best ROI — over-capitalising with luxury finishes rarely pays off.
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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 →