Locksmith costs vary significantly by time of day — after-hours and emergency call-outs cost 1.5–2x business hours rates. Job type (lockout vs rekey vs replacement) also affects pricing.
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 locksmith in Australia charges $120–$300 for a standard business-hours lockout and $200–$500 for emergency after-hours service. Rekeying all locks in a home costs $120–$350, and a full lock replacement runs $80–$220 per lock. Smart lock installation costs $15–$50 per lock.
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Business-hours lockouts in Australia ($120–$300) are significantly cheaper than after-hours or emergency call-outs ($200–$500). Weekend and public holiday rates are usually the highest.
Type of job
A simple lockout is quickest. Rekeying ($120–$350 in Australia), full replacement ($80–$220), and smart lock installation ($15–$50) take longer and cost more.
Lock brand & complexity
Standard Lockwood or Gainsborough locks in Australia are cheaper to service than high-security brands (Abloy, Medeco). Commercial locks and master key systems cost significantly more.
Number of locks
Rekeying or replacing all locks in a Australia home attracts a volume discount per lock. Always ask about a whole-home rate compared to per-lock pricing.
Security upgrades
Many homeowners take the opportunity of a locksmith visit in Australia to upgrade to deadbolts, security screens, or smart locks. This is often the most cost-effective time to make these improvements.
Car lockouts
Car lockouts in Australia ($150–$400) are priced differently from home lockouts. Modern transponder key cutting and programming costs more than traditional key cutting.
How to Save Money on Locksmith in Australia
1
If locked out during business hours in Australia, call 2–3 locksmiths and compare call-out fees
2
After a break-in or losing keys, rekey rather than just replacing locks — it's cheaper and equally secure
3
Consider rekeying all locks when moving into a new Australia home — you don't know who has copies of the old keys
4
Ask for a fixed price quote before the locksmith starts work — don't accept a "time will tell" response
5
Check the locksmith is licensed — all states require licensing for locksmiths operating in Australia
6
Ask about key cutting on-site — mobile locksmiths can often cut new keys immediately
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a locksmith cost in Australia?
A standard lockout in Australia during business hours costs $120–$300. Emergency after-hours lockouts cost $200–$500. Lock replacement runs $120–$350 per lock including parts.
How much does an emergency locksmith cost in Australia?
Emergency after-hours locksmith work in Australia typically costs $200–$500 for a lockout. Weekend and public holiday rates are at the higher end. Always confirm the total price before work starts.
Do locksmiths need to be licensed in Australia?
Yes — locksmiths must hold a valid security industry licence in most Australian states. Always ask to see their licence before letting them work on your property. Check with your state's licensing authority.
How much does lock replacement cost in Australia?
Replacing a standard lock in Australia costs $120–$350 including parts and labour. High-security or smart lock replacements cost more. Ask for a fixed quote including the cost of the new lock.
Is it better to rekey or replace locks in Australia?
Rekeying is cheaper ($80–$220/lock in Australia) and makes sense when the lock is in good condition and you just want to restrict access for old keys. Replacement is better for worn, damaged, or low-security locks.
How long does a lockout take to resolve?
Most standard residential lockouts take 15–30 minutes once the locksmith arrives. Difficult locks or situations may take longer. Most Australia locksmiths aim for a 30–60 minute response time during business hours.