Bricklayer Cost: What You Can Expect to Pay in Australia

If you are planning to build a new home, extend your current property, or take on a landscaping project, hiring a professional bricklayer is essential. Common bricklaying jobs include building a new house, adding an extension to a home, building a retaining wall, and repairing or repointing bricks. But understanding bricklayer cost and what influences pricing is just as important as the work itself.

This detailed guide breaks down everything you need to know about bricklaying costs in Australia, including hourly rates, cost per 1,000 bricks, price differences across project types, and smart ways to reduce expenses.

Average Bricklayer Cost in Australia

The average labour cost for a qualified bricklayer in Australia is approximately $58 per hour, but this figure can vary depending on several factors, including your location, project scope, and the type of bricks used.

On a per-brick basis, bricklayers charge between $1.10 and $1.60 per brick, depending on the complexity of the work. For large-scale jobs, you may also see pricing presented as cost per 1,000 bricks, which typically ranges from $1,100 to $1,600. The size of the project is a significant factor affecting bricklaying costs, with larger projects generally requiring more time and labor.

When looking at bricklayer cost per square metre, you can expect to pay between $65 and $120 per m², depending on materials and site access.

Bricklaying Prices Per Job Type

The type of bricklaying project significantly influences the total cost. Here's a breakdown of common jobs and what they typically cost:

• New home construction (brick veneer): $50 to $80 per m²
• Double brick home: $80 to $120 per m²
• Garden wall: $250 to $650 per linear metre
• Retaining wall: $250 to $550 per m² for supply and installation
• Brick fencing: $180 to $450 per metre, depending on style and materials
• Brick pointing or repair: $5 to $25 per linear metre

Projects such as brick arches, curved walls, or decorative brickwork can push costs higher due to the project's complexity and the need for specialised skills.

Factors Affecting Bricklaying Costs

Understanding what goes into a bricklaying quote can help you budget accurately and avoid unexpected charges. The following factors influence the overall cost:

1. Type of Bricks

Standard clay bricks are widely used and relatively affordable. Traditional clay bricks are the most popular choice for construction due to their durability and versatility. Face bricks, concrete bricks, and custom finishes tend to cost more. Specialty or handmade bricks attract a higher cost per brick and may require more labour.

2. Project Complexity

Intricate designs, double brick construction, and work that requires brick pointing or custom cuts are more labour-intensive and attract higher hourly rates. The style of bricklaying can affect costs, with brick veneer being simpler and less expensive compared to double brick or intricate designs.

3. Size of the Job

Larger jobs typically benefit from better cost efficiency per square metre, while small-scale repairs or minor extensions may come with higher per-unit pricing.

4. Labour Rates by Region

Costs differ between states and cities. For example:

• New South Wales and Victoria have higher hourly labour rates than Western Australia or regional areas.
• Bricklaying costs per m² in Sydney are often at the higher end due to labour prices and high demand.

5. Accessibility Issues

Poor site access, narrow laneways, or work at height requiring scaffolding will all increase labour costs.

6. Materials and Equipment

Aside from bricks and mortar, costs may include:

• Scaffolding
• Cement
• Lintels
• Additional adhesives
• Delivery of materials

Mortar, adhesives, and scaffolding are additional expenses that should be factored into the overall bricklaying budget.

Hiring a Professional Bricklayer

Choosing the right bricklayer is crucial for ensuring a quality finish. Here are some tips to help you select the best contractor:

• Compare multiple quotes from different bricklaying companies to understand market rates.
• Ask if they’re licensed and insured in your state or territory. Hiring a licensed bricklayer generally indicates more experience and a skilled approach to the job.
• Review their past projects, online reviews, and references.
• Ensure your quote includes a breakdown of materials, labour costs, and additional expenses.
• Ask about their experience in similar bricklaying jobs, whether that’s brick fencing, brick veneer, or repairing brickwork.

Remember that most bricklayers are happy to visit your site and provide a tailored estimate.

Common Types of Bricklaying Projects

New Homes

Home builds using brick veneer or double brick are the most common large-scale projects. Brick veneer is more affordable and faster to install, while double brick offers greater insulation and noise reduction.

Renovations and Extensions

Adding an extra room or extending your home with bricks involves calculating labour hours, brick cost, and ensuring the new work matches your existing façade.

Brick Retaining Walls and Fences

Brick fencing and retaining walls are often priced per metre and involve additional work such as footings, drainage, and reinforcement.

Repairs and Repointing

Brick pointing involves removing deteriorated mortar and replacing it, which is both time-consuming and skilled work. Costs increase when structural bricks need to be replaced.

Regional Bricklaying Prices in Australia

While average prices are consistent nationally, rates differ by region:

• NSW & Victoria: $65 to $120 per m²
• Queensland & WA: $55 to $100 per m²
• South Australia: $60 to $110 per m²
• Gold Coast & regional QLD: Slightly lower rates but fewer available contractors

Saving Money on Your Bricklaying Project

There are several smart ways to cut costs without compromising quality:

• Get multiple quotes to compare scope and labour cost.
• Choose standard bricks instead of high-end face bricks or handmade options.
• Plan your project thoroughly, including materials and timelines.
• Purchase bricks in bulk or source reclaimed bricks.
• Combine smaller jobs into one contract to save on call-out charges.
• Avoid DIY bricklaying unless you have experience – incorrect installations may cost more to fix later.

What to Include in Your Bricklaying Quote

A clear quote should include:

• Price per 1,000 bricks or cost per square metre
• Estimated labour hours and hourly rate
• Type and quantity of bricks
• Equipment hire (e.g. scaffolding)
• Site preparation or clearance
• Mortar and cement supply
• Additional materials (e.g. concrete blocks, mortar, reinforcements)

This transparency helps avoid surprises once the job starts.

Final Thoughts: How Much Does Bricklaying Cost?

The total cost of your bricklaying job will vary depending on materials, region, access, and the work involved. However, here are some ballpark price ranges:

Hiring professional bricklayers ensures quality, longevity, and efficiency. Whether you're laying a few rows of standard bricks or taking on complex projects involving solid brick structures, understanding the cost to lay bricks will help you budget with confidence.

For tailored quotes from the best bricklayers in your area, use Trade Heroes to connect with trusted local professionals. Our platform helps you obtain quotes, compare prices, and hire reliable contractors for any bricklaying project in Australia.