How Much Does A Bathroom Renovation Cost In Australia?

DanielleA typical bathroom renovation cost in Australia sits around $26,000 to $26,747, with most projects ranging from about $8,000 for budget renovations to over $40,000 for high end and luxury bathroom renovation work.
That is a wide range, which is why so many homeowners search “How much does a bathroom renovation cost?” or “How much does a bathroom reno actually cost upwards of?”. The truth is, the total cost of a bathroom renovation will always vary depending on bathroom size, the scope of work, materials and fittings, labour costs involved, and how much contingency you build into your renovation budget.
At Trade Heroes, we see everything from a basic bathroom renovation in a small unit through to a complete overhaul of a large family ensuite with underfloor heating, frameless shower screens and custom fixtures. This guide breaks down the average bathroom renovation cost in Australia, shows you the major costs that drive your renovation costs up or down, and gives you practical steps to plan a realistic budget for your dream bathroom.
What Is The Average Bathroom Renovation Cost In Australia?
The average bathroom renovation cost in Australia is around $26,000 to $26,747, with most bathroom renovation costs falling between $5,000 and $40,000 depending on scope, size and finish level.
Industry data from the Housing Industry Association and major renovation studies show that:
- A budget bathroom renovation can cost as little as $5,000 to $15,000 when you focus on cosmetic changes.
- A mid range bathroom renovation or mid range renovation will often sit between $15,000 and $40,000, which is where most Australian homeowners spend on a bathroom.
- A premium bathroom renovation or luxury renovation can easily reach $35,000 to $50,000+, especially for a complete bathroom renovation in a large space.
These numbers are guide rails, not rigid rules, but they give you a clear expected budget band before you start getting quotes.
Budget Bathroom Renovation ($8,000–$15,000)
A budget bathroom renovation usually costs between $8,000 and $15,000 and focuses on a bathroom makeover that updates an old bathroom without structural work or moving plumbing.
In this budget cost range, you are usually working with a small bathroom or average sized bathroom where the existing plumbing layout stays roughly the same. You keep the renovation process simple and concentrate on visible surfaces and basic bathroom tiles and fixtures.
In a budget bathroom renovation between $8,000 and $15,000 you can often:
- Replace a basic toilet, shower head, vanity and tapware with budget materials and mid range options
- Refresh floor tiles and wall tiles with new porcelain tiles or ceramic tiles on key areas, or regrout existing tiles
- Install framed shower screens or semi framed options instead of frameless shower screens
- Upgrade bathroom lighting and basic lighting fixtures, plus a more efficient exhaust fan
- Repaint walls and ceiling with mould resistant paint for a cleaner new bathroom look
This level of bathroom renovation project is ideal for rentals, first homes and sellers who just want a tidy, functional bathroom renovation cost that does not overcapitalise.
Mid Range Bathroom Renovation ($15,000–$35,000)
A mid range bathroom renovation typically costs between $15,000 and $35,000 and delivers a full renovation of an average sized bathroom with better materials and a more modern layout.
In this band you can expect to pay for a combination of cosmetic upgrades and deeper work, such as a full strip out, new waterproofing, new bathroom tiles and a better mix of materials and fittings. The average total cost for a mid range bathroom renovation is often quoted between $15,000 and $40,000, depending on how far you push finishes and design complexity.
A mid range bathroom renovation can usually include:
- Demolition back to framing and a full renovation of the existing bathroom
- New waterproofing to Australian Standards and improved fall to floor wastes
- New floor tiles and wall tiles throughout, often using porcelain tiles on floors and feature walls
- Frameless shower screens or quality semi frameless shower enclosure options
- Wall mounted vanities or mid range wall hung vanities with stone or solid surface tops
- Updated toilet installations, tapware, bathroom lighting fixtures and storage
- Some moving plumbing if needed, such as shifting the vanity or shower position
This is the most common band Trade Heroes sees, and it is where the renovation process balances cost, longevity and resale appeal.
Premium Or Luxury Bathroom Renovation ($35,000–$50,000+)
A premium or luxury bathroom renovation starts around $35,000 and can cost upwards of $50,000 or more for a complete overhaul with custom fixtures and high end finishes.
Luxury bathroom renovation projects typically involve a larger bathroom size, more complex renovation plans, and a bathroom designer or interior designer to tie everything together. You are usually creating a hero ensuite or main bathroom as part of a broader luxury renovation.
In this premium bathroom renovation band you can often afford:
- A complete bathroom renovation that includes structural changes, new windows or skylights
- Underfloor heating at roughly $30 to $120 per square metre, plus heated towel rails and heat lamps
- High end bathroom tiles such as large format porcelain tiles or natural stone, with tiling costs ranging from about $3,600 to $7,800+
- Smart toilets, wall hung toilets, and other smart fixtures that lift both comfort and value
- Custom fixtures like bespoke joinery, integrated wall niches and designer shower enclosure layouts
- A full renovation with a bathroom designer or interior designer overseeing materials and fittings
This level suits “forever homes” where owners are happy to spend on a bathroom renovation cost that transforms their space and supports daily comfort for years.
Key Factors That Influence Bathroom Renovation Costs
Bathroom renovation costs are influenced by bathroom size, scope of work, material quality, labour costs, design complexity and the size of your contingency fund.
Understanding these factors before you finalise your renovation plans helps you set a realistic budget and control the overall cost of a bathroom renovation.
Bathroom Size, Layout And Complexity
Larger bathrooms require more materials and labour, which means higher renovation costs for floor tiles, wall tiles, waterproofing and tiling.
A small bathroom or compact ensuite will always have a lower total cost than a medium bathroom or large family bathroom, simply because you buy fewer bathroom tiles, fixtures and fittings and pay for less labour.
Complex layouts, niches, steps and built in benches also add to costs, as they increase tiling time and square metre rate for labour. When you are planning your bathroom reno, ask whether the layout can stay simple while still feeling like a dream bathroom.
Property Type (Unit Vs House) And Access
Property type and access conditions can significantly vary depending on how easy it is for trades to move materials and remove waste.
For example:
- Units usually need more protection to common areas, longer carry distances and strata approvals
- Houses often have easier access for skip bins, deliveries and demolition waste removal
Access issues can push demolition and waste removal costs into the $1,000 to $4,000 range. Trade Heroes always includes these costs involved upfront so your renovation budget reflects reality.
Moving Plumbing, Drains And Walls
Moving plumbing, drains and walls is one of the biggest drivers of plumbing costs and major costs in a bathroom renovation project.
Plumbing costs range from $2,000 to $5,000+, depending on whether pipes are moved, whether new fixtures are added, and how complex the existing plumbing is. Keeping existing plumbing where it is can deliver meaningful savings.
If you move walls or change structure, you may also need permits and engineering. Before you rework everything, weigh up how much does it cost to shift a toilet or shower versus how much value it adds.
Quality Of Tiles, Fittings And Finishes
The type and quality of materials selected significantly impact the final renovation costs, especially for bathroom tiles and fixtures.
For example:
- Tiling costs can range from around $20 to $150 per square metre, depending on tile type
- Bathroom vanities can cost between $1,000 and $4,500+, depending on size and finish
- Tapware can start from $50 for basic stainless steel taps and climb past $300 for premium pieces
Investing in quality materials and fittings where it counts, such as shower hardware and waterproofing, while using smart budget materials elsewhere is a proven way to manage renovation costs.
Location, Labour Rates And Tradie Availability
Labour costs typically account for 20 to 60 percent of the total bathroom renovation budget, depending on who you quote and how detailed your scope is.
Different studies quote labour as:
- Around 20 to 30 percent of the total cost in some breakdowns
- Roughly 30 to 50 percent in others
- Often 40 to 60 percent on more complex bathroom renovation projects
Whatever number you use, labour is a major slice. You may need to hire a plumber, electrician, tiler and handyman, and each will bill either per square metre rate, per job, or per hour. In busy markets, expect to pay towards the top of published ranges.
Using a directory like Trade Heroes to research and select the right tradespeople and suppliers, and to get multiple quotes, is crucial for staying on budget.
Bathroom Renovation Cost Breakdown
A bathroom renovation typically allocates around 40 percent of the budget to fittings and fixtures and about 35 percent to tiling and building works, with the rest spread across design, approvals and contingency.
Looking at every part of the renovation process helps you understand where the money goes and what you can adjust.
Demolition And Rubbish Removal (Incl. Asbestos And Pests)
Demolition and waste removal costs must be included in the renovation budget and can range from around $1,000 to $4,000, depending on scale and access.
This stage often includes:
- Stripping the old bathroom, removing wall linings, old bathroom fixtures and floor tiles
- Loading and removing debris via skip bins or tip runs
- Dealing with surprise issues such as termite damage or rotten framing
If asbestos is present, specialised removal is required and will increase your total cost, but it is non negotiable for safety and compliance.
Plumbing And Drainage
Plumbing and drainage are major costs in most bathroom renovation projects and can significantly increase the overall cost.
Realistic plumbing cost ranges include:
- General plumbing costs: often $2,000 to $5,000+, depending on whether you are moving plumbing or simply replacing fixtures
- Labour costs for plumbers: typically $60 to $150 per hour
- Toilet cost for standard toilet installations: from around $120 to $450 for a basic toilet, up to over $1,200 for smart toilets, plus installation
Keeping the layout and existing plumbing in place is one of the most effective ways to control costs involved in this area.
Waterproofing (AS3740 Compliance)
Waterproofing is a crucial step in the bathroom renovation process and protects your home from water damage, mould and structural issues.
Waterproofing typically costs:
- Around $75 to $120 per square metre, depending on products and complexity
- Often between $500 and $900 for an average sized bathroom
It must comply with AS3740 and be completed by licensed contractors. Faulty waterproofing is one of the most expensive failures to fix, so this is not the place to cut corners.
Tiling (Materials And Labour)
Tiling is usually one of the highest single line items in a bathroom renovation, and tiling costs can vary from about $3,600 to $7,800+ based on tile type, bathroom size and coverage area.
You pay for both tile supply and tiler labour.
Cost Of Bathroom Tiles (Supply Only)
A simple guide for tile supply by bathroom size might look like this:
| Bathroom Size | Approximate Tiled Area | Budget Tiles (From) | Premium Tiles (From) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 15 m² | $525 | $900 |
| Medium | 17 m² | $595 | $1,020 |
| Large | 22 m² | $980 | $1,680 |
These ranges assume budget ceramic or porcelain tiles for the lower figures and higher end porcelain tiles or stone for the top end.
Cost Of Bathroom Tilers (Labour Only)
Tilers may charge per square metre rate or per job. A typical breakdown looks like:
| Bathroom Size | Approximate Tiled Area | Budget Labour (From) | Premium Labour (From) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 15 m² | $1,125 | $1,800 |
| Medium | 17 m² | $1,275 | $2,040 |
| Large | 22 m² | $2,100 | $3,360 |
Complex patterns, mosaics and tricky set outs will increase labour costs.
Total Estimated Tiling Costs (Tiles + Labour)
Combining tile supply with labour gives an estimate like:
| Bathroom Size | Budget Total (Approx.) | Premium Total (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Small | $1,650 | $2,700 |
| Medium | $1,870 | $3,060 |
| Large | $3,080 | $5,040 |
Remember these are indicative only; the cost of a bathroom tiling package will vary depending on tile choices and layout.
Shower And Shower Screen
The cost of a bathroom shower enclosure and shower screen can range from a few hundred dollars for basic units to several thousand for custom glass and fixtures.
Typical costs include:
- Standard glass shower screens: often from around $400, with frameless designs commonly over $600
- Framed shower screens and framed shower panels: usually the cheapest
- Semi frameless and frameless shower screens: higher end, but with a more minimal look
Your chosen shower head, mixer and drain hardware will also influence the overall cost.
Bathtub (Supply And Installation)
Installation costs for a new bathtub can range from around $500 for a basic install to $10,000 or more for freestanding or spa baths in complex layouts.
Supply costs vary depending on style and material:
- Acrylic and fibreglass tubs at the budget end
- Enameled steel and stone baths in mid range
- Designer and spa baths in luxury segments
Ask each provider through Trade Heroes to specify both supply and install, so you know the total cost impact of including a bath.
Toilet (Supply And Installation)
Toilet cost depends on style and technology, with basic toilets from around $120 to $450 and smart toilets exceeding $1,200.
Supply ranges might look like:
- Basic toilet close coupled models: approximately $120 to $450
- Wall faced and in wall cistern models: higher again
- Smart toilets with bidet functions and sensors: often $1,200+
Installation will vary depending on whether you are changing positions or reusing existing plumbing.
Vanity, Basin And Storage
Bathroom vanities typically cost between $1,000 and $4,500 or more, depending on size, finishes and whether they are custom cabinetry or prefabricated units.
Costs depend on:
- Size and configuration of the vanity
- Benchtop material and basin type
- Whether you choose floor standing or wall mounted vanities
Custom cabinetry is typically more expensive than off the shelf units but can make better use of space and improve resale appeal.
Tapware And Accessories
The cost of tapware can vary widely, starting from around $50 for basic models to over $300 for premium options.
You might choose:
- Simple chrome or stainless steel taps and mixers at the budget end
- Brushed nickel, matte black or coloured finishes in mid range
- Designer tapware and showers for a luxury bathroom renovation
Accessories such as towel rails, toilet roll holders and robe hooks usually add a few hundred dollars more, especially if you opt for matching sets.
Electrical Work (Lighting, Fans, Heating)
Electrical work can range from $800 to $4,000+ for new installations, including bathroom lighting, fans and heating.
You will usually need an electrician to install:
- New lighting fixtures, downlights and feature lights
- Exhaust fans, heat lamps and combination units
- Power points in vanities or cabinets
Labour costs for electricians typically range from $60 to $150 per hour, depending on region, with total electrical work depending on how much you add.
Bathroom Heating And Ventilation
Underfloor heating and heated towel rails are popular comfort upgrades:
- Underfloor heating can increase a renovation budget significantly, costing around $30 to $120 per square metre
- Heated towel rails and heat lamps also add to costs but improve day to day comfort
Good ventilation is essential to protect your new bathroom from mould and moisture.
Bathroom Lighting (Fixtures And Install)
Bathroom lighting should cover task, ambient and feature needs:
- Simple lighting fixtures can be very affordable
- High end designer lighting can cost hundreds per fitting
Ask electricians quoting through Trade Heroes to specify both fittings and labour for a clear comparison.
Painting And Finishing
Painting and finishing usually add several hundred dollars to the overall cost and are key to a clean, finished look.
Using proper bathroom paints and sealants extends the life of your renovation and keeps surfaces looking fresh longer.
Permits, Strata Rules And Design Fees
Permits may be required for major structural changes in bathroom renovations, depending on local regulations and building type.
You may also need:
- Strata approval in units
- A bathroom designer or interior designer to help with renovation plans
Planning and design are foundational to a successful bathroom renovation and influence all other choices.
Site Preparation And Cleanup
Site preparation and cleanup should be part of your realistic budget and include dust protection, floor coverings and final cleaning.
Demolition waste removal and extra tip runs are often forgotten when people estimate how much does a bathroom renovation cost.
Labour And Trades (Hourly And Per Job Rates)
Labour costs for tradespeople such as plumbers and electricians typically range from $60 to $150 per hour and are a major slice of the total cost.
Typical trades on a bathroom renovation include:
- Plumbers, electricians and tilers
- Carpenters, painters and sometimes a handyman
A reliable team of tradespeople keeps your renovation process on track and reduces costly rework.
Hidden Bathroom Renovation Costs To Watch For
Hidden bathroom renovation costs often appear once demolition starts, especially in old bathrooms where problems have been covered up.
Planning for these early helps protect your renovation budget.
Water Damage, Rot And Structural Issues
Water damage, rot and structural issues are common in older bathrooms and can quickly increase renovation costs.
You might discover:
- Rotten framing under showers or baths
- Damaged subfloors or cracked slabs
- Long term leaks that require major repairs
A contingency budget of 10 to 20 percent is recommended to cover unexpected costs like these.
Asbestos Removal And Compliance
Asbestos removal needs licensed contractors and can add thousands to demolition and waste costs, but it is essential for safety.
Any suspicious linings should be tested before work starts. If asbestos is present, expect to pay more for safe removal and disposal.
Upgrading Old Plumbing Or Electrics To Code
Plumbing and electrical work can significantly increase the overall cost of a bathroom renovation when old systems need upgrades to meet current code.
Examples include:
- Replacing old galvanised pipes
- Updating wiring, safety switches and circuits
- Reworking non compliant exhaust fans or bathroom lighting
Hiring licensed contractors means these issues are picked up and addressed correctly.
Variations, Delays And Scope Creep
Variations, delays and scope creep occur when decisions change midbuild, and they nearly always increase renovation costs.
To minimise this:
- Lock in materials and fittings before you start
- Be clear about what is “nice to have” versus essential
- Use itemised quotes so you see the cost impact of each change
Getting multiple quotes and comparing them through a directory like Trade Heroes can also reduce the risk of price shocks.
Common Bathroom Renovation Mistakes To Avoid
Many bathroom renovation mistakes come from rushing planning, underestimating labour costs and trying to save in the wrong places.
Avoid these errors to protect your money and your new bathroom.
Underestimating Budget And Contingency
A common mistake is failing to set a realistic budget and forgetting to include a 10 to 20 percent contingency fund.
Without a buffer, any issue with waterproofing, structure or product changes can derail your project. A realistic budget accounts for:
- Expected spend across fittings, tiling, labour and approvals
- A contingency fund of 10 to 15 percent, or even 20 percent for very old homes
Poor Layout And Cheap Waterproofing
Poor layout and cheap waterproofing undermine both the functionality and lifespan of a bathroom renovation.
Common layout issues include:
- Cramped toilets or basins
- Poor access to storage
- Wet zones that splash into dry areas
Waterproofing failures can take years to show and are expensive to repair. Always prioritise correct layout and waterproofing over purely cosmetic upgrades.
Choosing The Wrong Trades Or DIYing Too Much
Choosing trades on price alone or DIYing too much can lead to blown budgets, safety issues and poor finishes.
You should never DIY:
- Plumbing and toilet installations
- Electrical work, heat lamps and power points
- Waterproofing and membrane work
Combining smart cosmetic upgrades with DIY labour (such as painting and simple styling) and using licensed trades for critical tasks is a more sustainable approach.
How To Reduce The Cost Of A Bathroom Renovation
You can reduce the cost of a bathroom renovation by keeping the layout, mixing high end and budget friendly materials, reusing where sensible and focusing on the essentials.
Small changes in planning can save thousands without sacrificing style.
Keeping The Existing Layout
Keeping the existing plumbing and electrical layouts is one of the most effective ways to manage renovation costs.
By not moving plumbing, you avoid cutting slabs, re routing pipes and reworking drains. Trades need fewer hours, and your renovation process stays simpler.
Mixing Budget And Feature Items
Mixing high end and budget friendly materials can be an effective strategy to manage renovation costs while still achieving a stylish and functional bathroom.
For example:
- Combine affordable wall tiles with a more expensive feature tile
- Use a mid range vanity and spend more on a quality shower screen and tapware
- Choose standard lighting plus one or two standout lighting fixtures
A well planned budget bathroom renovation can still look impressive by choosing a few focal points.
Reusing Or Resurfacing Where It Makes Sense
Simple cosmetic updates can refresh a bathroom without the need for a full renovation.
You might:
- Resurface a structurally sound bath
- Clean and regrout tiles instead of replacing them
- Repaint cabinetry, replace handles and update a basic toilet only if needed
This approach suits owners who want a bathroom makeover without the disruption and cost of a full renovation.
Prioritising What Really Matters (Waterproofing, Plumbing)
When you decide where to spend on a bathroom, waterproofing, plumbing and core electrical work should always come before purely decorative upgrades.
It is better to:
- Invest in quality membranes, drains and plumbing connections
- Choose practical mid range tiles over high end stone if budget is tight
- Add luxury features like underfloor heating later, if necessary
This way, you protect your home and create a durable base for future upgrades.
How To Get An Accurate Bathroom Renovation Quote
You get the most accurate quote when you invest time in planning and design, define your scope clearly, choose materials upfront and compare multiple itemised quotes from different trades.
This is where Trade Heroes is especially useful as a directory of trusted providers.
Create A Clear Layout And Brief
Start with a basic plan of your bathroom size and a written brief that describes how you want your new bathroom to look and function.
Include:
- Measurements and positions of existing fixtures
- Notes on what stays and what changes
- Any specific materials and fittings you already have in mind
Good renovation plans help trades price your bathroom renovation cost more accurately.
Define Your Renovation Scope (Refresh Vs Full Gut)
Decide whether you are planning a refresh, a full renovation or a complete overhaul of the space.
A refresh is mainly cosmetic, while a full gut and complete bathroom renovation includes demolition, waterproofing, tiling and fit off. The costs involved, labour costs and timelines vary depending on which you choose.
Choose Materials And Fittings Early
Choosing materials and fittings early reduces guesswork and makes quotes more reliable.
This includes:
- Bathroom tiles, tapware and shower screen style
- Vanity, toilet and bath selections
- Heating, like heated towel rails or underfloor heating, if desired
Knowing these up front means trades are not working off vague allowances.
Use A Bathroom Renovation Cost Calculator
Online bathroom renovation cost calculators can give you a ballpark figure before you call trades, but they are no substitute for real quotes.
Use them to sanity check your expected budget, then compare the results with detailed quotes from trades you find through Trade Heroes.
Book An On Site Inspection
A site inspection lets each tradie see the bathroom size, access, existing bathroom conditions and any obstacles first hand.
They can:
- Check for signs of leaks or movement
- Assess services and structure
- Discuss your renovation plans and any constraints
This leads to more accurate quotes and fewer variations later.
Ask For An Itemised, Fixed Price Quote
Ask each provider for an itemised, fixed price quote so you can see how much does a bathroom renovation cost line by line.
A good quote should cover:
- Demolition and waste removal
- Plumbing, electrical work and waterproofing
- Tiling, fixtures and fittings
- Labour costs and supervision
This helps you compare like for like between tradies and make informed decisions.
Check What Is Included (And What Is Not)
Check inclusions and exclusions carefully before you accept a quote so you understand the overall cost.
Look for clarity on:
- Permits and certifications
- Waste removal and cleaning
- Any provisional sums that could change later
Reading the fine print reduces surprises.
Be Upfront About Your Budget And Expectations
Being honest about how much you want to spend on a bathroom lets trades tailor their recommendations and avoid quoting work that is outside your realistic budget.
If you are clear on your expected budget, trades can suggest where to save, where to spend and how to stage the work if needed.
When To Hire A Bathroom Renovation Expert
Hiring a bathroom renovation expert is essential when your project involves waterproofing, plumbing, electrical work or structural changes.
Bathrooms have tight tolerances and serious consequences if things go wrong.
Jobs You Should Never DIY (Waterproofing, Electrics, Plumbing)
You should never DIY waterproofing, electrical work or plumbing in a bathroom because they are specialised tasks that must comply with Australian Standards.
These jobs require:
- Licensed plumbers for hot and cold water, drainage and toilet installations
- Licensed electricians for bathroom lighting, power points and heat lamps
- Qualified waterproofers for membranes and wet area detailing
Using professionals protects both your home and your insurance.
Benefits Of Using A Licensed Bathroom Renovator
Using a licensed bathroom renovator or working with trades found through a reputable directory like Trade Heroes increases the chances of a smooth, on budget renovation.
Benefits include:
- Experienced project sequencing
- Better quality control across trades
- Proper documentation and warranties
Researching and selecting the right tradespeople and suppliers is critical, and Trade Heroes exists to make that easier.
Bathroom Renovation Cost FAQs
How Long Does A Bathroom Renovation Take?
A full bathroom renovation takes around 3 to 4 weeks of actual build time, but planning can stretch anywhere from one to six months depending on the scope.
The renovation process involves several stages, including planning, demolition, installation and fitting fixtures. The planning phase alone can take up to 3 weeks or more as you refine designs, choose materials and gather quotes.
How Much Does It Cost To Renovate A Small Bathroom?
To renovate a small bathroom, expect to pay somewhere between $5,000 and $15,000, depending on whether you do a basic bathroom renovation or a more complete upgrade.
At the lower end you are likely just doing a bathroom makeover with paint, tapware and simple upgrades. At the higher end you may tackle tiling, waterproofing and new fixtures.
How Much Does A Full Bathroom Renovation Cost?
A full bathroom renovation in Australia usually costs between $15,000 and $40,000, with an average spend around $26,000.
This sort of full renovation includes demolition, rough ins, waterproofing, tiling and final fit off, plus materials and fittings. The overall cost will vary depending on bathroom size, materials and labour costs.
Can I Renovate A Bathroom For $10,000?
Yes, you can renovate a bathroom for around $10,000 if you focus on cosmetic updates, keep the layout and choose cost effective materials and fittings.
Combining some DIY labour with smart trade input lets you refresh an existing bathroom without the expense of a complete bathroom renovation.
Can I Renovate A Bathroom For $5,000?
A $5,000 bathroom renovation is possible when you keep work light and focus on simple cosmetic updates rather than structural changes.
For example, you might:
- Repaint walls and ceiling
- Update tapware and a shower head
- Replace a mirror and some bathroom lighting
This kind of work is more of a bathroom makeover than a full bathroom reno.
What Is The Most Expensive Part Of A Bathroom Renovation?
The wet area, including shower, bath and surrounding tiling and waterproofing, is usually the most expensive part of a bathroom renovation.
It involves high labour costs, detailed tiling, waterproofing, plumbing and often a higher standard of fixtures, all of which add to the total cost.
Is Redoing A Bathroom A Good Investment?
Yes, redoing a bathroom is widely considered a good investment because a well planned bathroom renovation can add twice its cost to the value of your home.
A bathroom renovation can significantly increase the value of your property, boost rental appeal and satisfy buyers who are looking for clean, tidy and functional bathrooms.
Can I Renovate A Bathroom Myself?
You can DIY some aspects of a bathroom renovation, but critical work like plumbing, waterproofing and electrical must be handled by licensed professionals.
Simple DIY tasks include painting, basic assembly and styling. For everything else, find and compare qualified trades through a directory like Trade Heroes to keep your project safe and compliant.
Ready To Get Quotes For Your Bathroom Renovation Cost?
Bathroom renovation costs in Australia range from around $5,000 for basic budget renovations to over $40,000 for high end and luxury bathroom renovation projects, with the average bathroom renovation cost sitting around $26,000.
Planning and design are key to controlling renovation costs and turning an old bathroom into a dream bathroom that works for daily life, resale and rental appeal. The renovation process usually includes demolition, rough ins, waterproofing, tiling and final fit off, and involves several trades. Setting a realistic budget, allowing a 10 to 20 percent contingency, and keeping existing plumbing where possible all help keep your renovation budget on track.
Trade Heroes is an independent directory that connects you with vetted plumbers, tilers, electricians, bathroom designers and renovators across Australia. Instead of guessing how much does a bathroom renovation cost with one quote, you can compare multiple itemised quotes, review previous work and choose the team that best fits your expected budget and renovation plans.
If you are ready to start your bathroom renovation project, use Trade Heroes today to compare quotes from local bathroom renovation experts, bathroom designers and licensed trades, and take the first step toward a new bathroom that fits your budget and your vision.

