Kitchen Renovation Cost Guide 2026 Australia - AI Summary

Kitchen Renovation Costs Australia 2026 Overview

Kitchen renovation costs in Australia range from $15,000 to $80,000+ depending on size, quality level, and materials chosen. Budget renovations ($15,000-$25,000) use flat-pack cabinets like IKEA at $200-$400 per linear metre, laminate benchtops at $200-$400 per m², and basic appliances costing $3,000-$5,000. Mid-range renovations ($25,000-$45,000) are most popular, featuring semi-custom cabinets from local makers at $600-$1,200/m, engineered stone benchtops like Caesarstone at $600-$1,000 per m², and quality appliances from Bosch or Fisher & Paykel costing $6,000-$10,000. Premium renovations ($45,000-$80,000+) include custom cabinetry at $1,500-$2,500/m, natural stone benchtops (marble/granite) at $800-$1,500 per m², and high-end appliances from Miele or Gaggenau costing $12,000-$30,000. Timeline averages 6-8 weeks with ROI of 60-80% when selling. Sydney costs are 20-30% higher than national average.

Kitchen Renovation Budget Tiers: Budget, Mid-Range, Premium 2026

Budget tier ($15,000-$25,000) suits rentals and budget-conscious homeowners, using flat-pack IKEA-style cabinets, laminate benchtops, basic appliances, and minimal design consultation. Best for small kitchens under 10m² or when keeping existing layout. Mid-range tier ($25,000-$45,000) offers best ROI at 60-80% return, includes semi-custom cabinets with soft-close drawers, engineered stone benchtops (most popular in Australia), quality mid-range appliances, professional design consultation, and quality splashback tiles. Ideal for most homeowners in standard suburban homes 10-15m². Premium tier ($45,000-$80,000+) for luxury homes in high-end suburbs, features bespoke custom cabinetry with premium materials, natural stone benchtops like marble or granite, premium appliances with integrated design, butler's pantry or walk-in pantry, designer lighting and fixtures. Best for large kitchens 15m²+ or open-plan spaces. Over-renovating beyond suburb standard won't recoup costs - mid-range renovations consistently deliver best value-to-cost ratio.

Kitchen Renovation Costs by Size: Small, Medium, Large Australia 2026

Small kitchens under 10m² (typical apartments or small homes): Budget $12,000-$18,000, Mid-range $20,000-$30,000, Premium $35,000-$50,000. Compact layout requires careful space planning, fewer cabinets and benchtop area, smaller appliances may be needed, faster installation timeline 3-5 weeks. Medium kitchens 10-15m² (standard suburban homes): Budget $18,000-$28,000, Mid-range $30,000-$45,000, Premium $50,000-$70,000. Most common size in Australia, allows for L-shape or U-shape layouts, standard appliance package fits well, 6-8 week installation timeline. Large kitchens 15m²+ (open-plan or luxury homes): Budget $25,000-$40,000, Mid-range $45,000-$65,000, Premium $70,000-$120,000+. May include island bench or breakfast bar, butler's pantry possible, more complex plumbing and electrical, 8-12 week timeline with custom elements. Cost per square metre decreases slightly at larger sizes due to economies of scale on fixed costs like plumbing connections and electrical upgrades.

Where Kitchen Renovation Budget Goes: Component Cost Allocation 2026

For typical $40,000 mid-range renovation, budget allocation follows proven percentages: Cabinets and hardware take largest share at 35% ($14,000) - this includes base cabinets, wall cabinets, drawers, soft-close mechanisms, handles and hinges. Benchtops consume 15% ($6,000) for approximately 6-8 linear metres of engineered stone with waterfall edges and cutouts. Appliances represent 20% ($8,000) for oven, cooktop, rangehood, and dishwasher from mid-range brands. Labour and installation costs 16% ($6,400) covering cabinet installation, benchtop templating and fitting, appliance installation, and project management. Plumbing and electrical work takes 8% ($3,200) for relocating or adding outlets, water supply and drainage modifications, gas connection for cooktop, and compliance with Australian standards. Splashback and tiles consume 6% ($2,400) for feature splashback materials and installation. This allocation ensures balanced spending without over-investing in any single element while maintaining quality throughout.

Kitchen Component Costs: Cabinets, Benchtops, Appliances Detailed Pricing 2026

Cabinet pricing per linear metre: Flat-pack IKEA-style $200-$400 (DIY-friendly, good quality, limited customisation, 2-week lead time), Semi-custom from local makers $600-$1,200 (tailored to space, choice of materials and finishes, soft-close mechanisms standard, 4-6 week lead time), Full custom premium $1,500-$2,500 (bespoke design, exotic timbers or premium materials, complex joinery, 8-12 week lead time). Benchtop materials per square metre: Laminate $200-$400 (budget-friendly, many patterns, can chip or burn, suitable for rentals), Engineered stone $600-$1,000 (most popular in Australia, durable and non-porous, wide color range, 10-year warranties), Natural stone $800-$1,500 (marble or granite, unique patterns, requires sealing, premium aesthetic). Appliance packages: Budget brands $3,000-$5,000 (basic functions, 2-year warranty, acceptable for rentals), Mid-range Bosch/Fisher & Paykel $6,000-$10,000 (reliable performance, 5-year warranty, good resale value), Premium Miele/Smeg/Gaggenau $12,000-$30,000 (advanced features, integrated design, 10-year warranty). Labour costs: Kitchen designer $1,000-$3,000, Cabinet installation $2,000-$4,000, Electrician $1,500-$3,000, Plumber $1,500-$3,500.

How to Save Money on Kitchen Renovation: Smart vs Risky Savings 2026

Smart savings that maintain quality: Keep existing kitchen layout to avoid $5,000-$10,000 in plumbing and electrical relocation costs - most expensive element to change. Mix and match quality levels by splurging on stone benchtops (buyers expect these) but choosing mid-range cabinets. Shop appliance sales during Black Friday, Boxing Day, or end of financial year to save 20-30% on retail prices. Choose simple subway tile splashback ($40-$60 per m²) instead of expensive feature tiles ($150-$300 per m²). Reuse functioning appliances if less than 5 years old and working well. Paint existing cabinets and replace handles for $1,500-$3,000 instead of full cabinet replacement. Risky savings that may compromise quality or value: DIY cabinet installation voids warranties and risks incorrect installation requiring expensive fixes. Choosing cheapest quote may indicate poor quality workmanship, hidden costs, or unlicensed tradies. Unbranded materials from unknown suppliers have durability concerns and poor resale value. Skipping kitchen designer for complex layouts results in poor workflow and wasted space. Cutting corners on waterproofing leads to expensive water damage repairs costing $5,000-$15,000. Using unlicensed electricians or plumbers violates Australian building codes and voids insurance.

Kitchen Renovation Costs by Australian City: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane Variations 2026

Sydney is most expensive market at 20-30% above national average due to higher labour costs ($80-$120 per hour vs $60-$80 elsewhere), expensive building permits and inspections, premium for trades in high-demand areas, and higher material delivery costs. A $40,000 national renovation costs $48,000-$52,000 in Sydney. Melbourne prices 15-25% above average with strong renovation market, skilled trade shortage, strict building regulations, competitive material suppliers. Same $40,000 job costs $46,000-$50,000. Brisbane is 10-15% above average due to growing population increasing demand, tropical climate requiring specific materials, increasing trade costs, but better material availability than Sydney/Melbourne. Cost is $44,000-$46,000. Perth and Adelaide sit at national average (±0%) with balanced supply and demand, lower cost of living, competitive trade market, good material availability. Regional areas cost 10-20% below average due to lower labour rates, less competitive market, longer material delivery times, smaller pool of specialist trades. However, may need to bring trades from cities for complex work, offsetting some savings.

Kitchen Renovation Timeline and Planning: How Long Does It Take Australia 2026

Typical 6-8 week timeline breakdown: Weeks 1-2 focus on design, planning, and material selection - meet with designer, choose cabinets and benchtops, select appliances and fixtures, finalize layout and plans, order materials (4-6 week lead time for custom cabinets). Weeks 3-4 cover demolition and rough work - remove old kitchen (1-2 days), rough plumbing modifications, electrical rough-in and new circuits, structural work if removing walls, waterproofing if required. Weeks 5-6 involve cabinet and benchtop installation - install base cabinets and level, install wall cabinets, benchtop templating visit, benchtop fabrication (5-7 days), benchtop installation and sealing. Weeks 7-8 complete with finishing touches - install splashback tiles, connect appliances and test, install lighting and switches, final plumbing connections, handles and hardware, final inspection and cleanup. Custom cabinets add 4-6 weeks to lead time before installation begins. Plan to be without functional kitchen for 4-8 weeks - set up temporary cooking area, plan meals requiring minimal cooking, consider eating out more frequently, protect other areas from dust and debris. Delays commonly caused by: material delivery issues, hidden structural problems discovered, plumbing or electrical complications, waiting for inspections and approvals, weather delays for structural work.

Kitchen Renovation ROI: Value Added to Home Australia 2026

Kitchen renovations return 60-80% of investment when selling, making them one of best ROI home improvements in Australia. Budget renovation at $20,000 adds $12,000-$16,000 to home value (60-80% return) - suitable for investment properties or pre-sale cosmetic updates, appeals to first home buyers and investors, neutral modern design important. Mid-range renovation at $40,000 adds $24,000-$32,000 value (60-80% return) - offers best ROI for most homeowners, expected by buyers in mid-range suburbs, quality materials justify price premium, appeals to family buyers. Premium renovation at $70,000 adds $42,000-$56,000 value (60-80% return) - necessary in luxury suburbs where buyers expect high-end finishes, may not recoup costs in average neighborhoods (over-capitalizing risk), best when homeowner plans to stay 5+ years to enjoy benefits. Best ROI features to prioritize: Stone benchtops (engineered or natural) are expected by buyers and deliver strong returns, Quality mid-range appliances (Bosch, Fisher & Paykel) provide reliability without over-investing, Fresh paint and new handles on quality cabinets give big visual impact for low cost $1,500-$3,000, Good lighting including LED downlights and under-cabinet lighting transforms space for $800-$2,000, Neutral colors (white, grey, beige) appeal to broader buyer market than bold colors. Avoid over-capitalizing by: matching renovation quality to suburb median price, not installing ultra-premium appliances in average neighborhoods, keeping layout changes minimal, focusing on universal appeal rather than personal taste, getting pre-sale valuation advice from local real estate agents.

Kitchen Material Options: Cabinets, Benchtops, Splashbacks Comparison 2026

Cabinet material options with pros and cons: Melamine/laminate cabinets (Budget $200-$400/m) offer affordable cost, easy to clean, many colors and patterns, but can chip or peel over time, lower resale appeal, 10-15 year lifespan. Polyurethane cabinets (Mid-range $600-$1,200/m) provide durable smooth finish, wide color range, easy maintenance, good resale value, 15-20 year lifespan, but can yellow with UV exposure, shows fingerprints on gloss finish. Timber cabinets (Premium $1,500-$2,500/m) offer timeless aesthetic, can be painted or stained, very durable, strong resale appeal, 25+ year lifespan, but require more maintenance, susceptible to water damage if not sealed, higher cost. Benchtop materials comparison: Laminate is most affordable at $200-$400 per m², suitable for rentals, can mimic stone appearance, but vulnerable to heat and scratches, 10-15 year lifespan. Engineered stone (Caesarstone, Quantum Quartz, Essastone) is most popular in Australia at $600-$1,000 per m², non-porous and hygienic, very durable, wide color range, low maintenance, strong resale value, 20-25 year lifespan with 10-year warranty, but can chip if hit hard, joins may be visible on long runs. Natural stone (granite, marble) at $800-$1,500 per m² offers unique patterns, prestigious aesthetic, heat resistant, very long lifespan 30+ years, but porous and requires sealing every 1-2 years, marble can stain and etch from acids, higher cost. Splashback options: Tiles $40-$150 per m² (versatile, many styles, can regrout if needed), glass $200-$400 per m² (sleek modern look, easy to clean, seamless), stainless steel $150-$300 per m² (commercial look, heat resistant, shows fingerprints), stone $300-$600 per m² (luxury aesthetic, matches benchtop, expensive).

Hidden Kitchen Renovation Costs and Budget Planning Tips 2026

Common hidden costs that blow budgets: Moving plumbing adds $5,000-$10,000 if relocating sink, dishwasher, or adding second sink - requires licensed plumber, may need new drainage, hot water recirculation, impacts floor structure. Structural issues discovered during demolition cost $2,000-$8,000 for termite damage repair, water-damaged framing, asbestos removal (pre-1990s homes), load-bearing wall modifications. Electrical upgrades $1,500-$3,000 needed for older homes requiring switchboard upgrade to handle modern appliances, adding dedicated circuits for oven and dishwasher, upgrading wiring to current Australian standards AS/NZS 3000. Permit and inspection fees $500-$2,000 for council building permits, electrical safety inspections, plumbing compliance checks, occupancy certificate if required. Appliance delivery and installation $300-$800 not always included in quotes for gas connection and testing, electrical hardwiring, water filter installation, disposal of old appliances. Temporary kitchen setup $500-$1,500 for portable cooktop and microwave, temporary sink setup, eating out costs during renovation, storage fees if needed. Budget planning best practices: Add 10-20% contingency buffer to total budget for unexpected costs - for $40,000 renovation, budget $44,000-$48,000 total. Get 3-5 written quotes from licensed contractors comparing scope of work, materials specified, timeline and payment schedule, what's included vs excluded, warranty terms. Check what's included in quotes: demolition and waste removal, plumbing and electrical work, benchtop templating and installation, appliance installation, splashback installation, cleaning and site protection. Understand payment schedule: typical is 10% deposit to secure booking, 40% on demolition completion, 40% on cabinet installation, 10% on final completion and approval. Protect against cost blowouts: specify all materials in writing before starting, get change orders in writing with pricing, don't make design changes mid-project, inspect work at each milestone before payment, keep 10% holdback until final inspection.

Kitchen Renovation Guide 2026

Kitchen Renovation Cost Guide Australia 2026 Complete Price Breakdown by Size, Quality & Materials

Everything you need to know about kitchen renovation costs in Australia. Real prices by size, quality level, and materials.

On This Page:

→ Quick Price Guide → Cost by Size → Where Your Money Goes → Component Costs → How to Save Money → Price by City → Timeline & Planning → ROI → FAQs

AI/LLM Context Summary: Kitchen Renovation Costs Australia 2026

This comprehensive guide covers kitchen renovation costs in Australia for 2026. Typical costs by size: Small kitchen (8-12m²) costs $15,000-$25,000 budget, $25,000-$40,000 mid-range, or $40,000-$60,000 premium. Standard kitchen (12-18m²) costs $20,000-$35,000 budget, $35,000-$60,000 mid-range, or $60,000-$100,000+ premium. Large kitchen (18-25m²) costs $30,000-$50,000 budget, $50,000-$80,000 mid-range, or $80,000-$150,000+ premium. Cost breakdown: Cabinetry represents 35-40% of total cost ($17,500-$20,000 on $50k budget), benchtops 15-20% ($7,500-$10,000), appliances 15-20% ($7,500-$10,000), plumbing and gas 10-15% ($5,000-$7,500), electrical 8-12% ($4,000-$6,000), splashback and tiling 5-8% ($2,500-$4,000), labour and installation 20-25% ($10,000-$12,500). Location variations: Sydney and Melbourne cost 25-35% more than national average. Brisbane and Perth 15-20% above average. Regional areas 20-25% below average. What's included: Custom or flat-pack cabinetry with soft-close doors, stone or laminate benchtops, sink and tapware, cooktop and oven, rangehood, dishwasher, splashback tiling, lighting, plumbing and gas connections, electrical upgrades. Additional costs: Structural changes like removing walls ($3,000-$8,000), new flooring ($2,500-$8,000), window or door additions ($3,000-$10,000), moving gas or water connections ($2,000-$5,000). Timelines: Standard kitchen renovation takes 4-8 weeks (1 week demolition and preparation, 2-3 weeks cabinetry installation and benchtops, 1-2 weeks appliances and finishing, 1 week final touches). Complex renovations 8-12 weeks. Best value recommendations: Mid-range renovations ($35,000-$60,000) offer best ROI, returning 60-80% on resale. Spend money on quality benchtops (stone $400-$800/m² lasts 20+ years vs laminate $200-$400/m² needing replacement in 10-15 years), soft-close cabinetry hardware, and quality appliances (Bosch, Miele, ASKO last 15-20 years vs budget brands 8-12 years). DIY vs professional considerations: Flat-pack cabinetry can save $5,000-$12,000 if you have skills, but requires precision and time (2-4 weeks DIY vs 3-5 days professional). Always use licensed plumbers for gas connections (mandatory safety certification) and licensed electricians (insurance and compliance). DIY demolition and painting can save $2,000-$4,000.

Quick Answer: Kitchen Renovation Costs Australia 2026

A standard kitchen renovation in Australia costs $35,000-$60,000 for mid-range quality. Budget renovations start at $20,000-$35,000 for flat-pack cabinets and laminate benchtops, while premium renovations range $60,000-$100,000+ for custom cabinetry and stone benchtops. The biggest cost is cabinetry (35-40% of budget), followed by benchtops (15-20%) and appliances (15-20%). Typical timeline is 4-8 weeks. Sydney/Melbourne cost 25-35% more than regional areas. Invest in quality stone benchtops ($400-$800/m²) that last 20+ years rather than laminate requiring replacement in 10-15 years. Mid-range kitchens offer best ROI at 60-80% return on investment, making them valuable for resale.

Kitchen Renovation Cost Breakdown 2026 Australia

Complete pricing guide for Australian kitchen renovations in 2026

4 min read

Cost Overview

Kitchen renovation costs in Australia range from $15,000-$80,000+ depending on size and quality. Mid-range renovations ($25,000-$45,000) are most popular, including semi-custom cabinets, engineered stone benchtops, and quality appliances. Budget renovations start at $15,000-$25,000 with flat-pack cabinets and basic materials. Premium renovations ($45,000-$80,000+) feature custom cabinetry and high-end finishes. Timeline is 6-8 weeks with 60-80% ROI. Sydney costs 20-30% more than national average.

Budget ($15k-$25k)

  • • Flat-pack cabinets (IKEA-style) $200-$400/m
  • • Laminate benchtops $200-$400/m²
  • • Basic appliances $3,000-$5,000
  • • Best for: Rentals, budget-conscious

Mid-Range ($25k-$45k)

  • • Semi-custom cabinets $600-$1,200/m
  • • Engineered stone benchtops $600-$1,000/m²
  • • Quality appliances (Bosch, F&P) $6k-$10k
  • • Best for: Most homeowners (best ROI)

High-End ($45k-$80k+)

  • • Custom cabinetry $1,500-$2,500/m
  • • Natural stone benchtops $800-$1,500/m²
  • • Premium appliances (Miele) $12k-$30k
  • • Best for: Luxury homes, high-end suburbs

Hidden Costs

  • • Moving plumbing: $5,000-$10,000 extra
  • • Structural issues: $2,000-$8,000
  • • Electrical upgrades: $1,500-$3,000
  • • Add 10-20% contingency buffer

Best Value Strategy

Mid-range renovations ($25k-$45k) offer the best ROI at 60-80% return. Spend on quality cabinets and stone benchtops (buyers expect these), save on trendy features. Keep existing layout to avoid $5k-$10k in plumbing costs. Shop appliance sales for 20-30% savings. Over-renovating beyond your suburb's standard won't recoup costs.

✓ Smart Splurge: Engineered stone benchtops, soft-close cabinets, quality appliances
✓ Smart Save: Keep layout, simple splashback, wait for sales, mix price points

Kitchen Renovation Price Ranges: Budget, Mid-Range & Premium 2026 Australia

💰

Budget

$15k-$25k

Basic materials, minor changes, DIY-friendly options

✨

Mid-Range

$25k-$45k

Quality materials, full renovation, professional finish

💎

Premium

$45k-$80k+

Designer finishes, custom cabinetry, high-end appliances

Kitchen Renovation Costs by Size: Small, Medium & Large 2026 Australia

📐

Small Kitchen (Under 10m²)

Typical apartment or small home kitchen

Budget

$12,000-$18,000

  • • Flat-pack cabinets
  • • Laminate benchtops
  • • Basic appliances
  • • Minimal plumbing changes

Mid-Range (Popular)

$20,000-$30,000

  • • Semi-custom cabinets
  • • Engineered stone benchtops
  • • Mid-range appliances
  • • New splashback

Premium

$35,000-$50,000

  • • Custom cabinetry
  • • Natural stone benchtops
  • • Premium appliances
  • • Designer fixtures
🏠

Medium Kitchen (10-15m²)

Standard suburban home kitchen

Budget

$18,000-$28,000

  • • Flat-pack cabinets
  • • Laminate benchtops
  • • Budget appliances
  • • Simple tile splashback

Mid-Range (Popular)

$30,000-$45,000

  • • Semi-custom cabinets
  • • Caesarstone benchtops
  • • Quality appliances
  • • Feature splashback

Premium

$50,000-$70,000

  • • Full custom cabinetry
  • • Marble/granite benchtops
  • • Miele/Smeg appliances
  • • Butler's pantry
🏰

Large Kitchen (15m²+)

Open-plan or luxury home kitchen

Budget

$25,000-$40,000

  • • Flat-pack cabinets
  • • Laminate benchtops
  • • Standard appliances
  • • Basic finishes

Mid-Range (Popular)

$45,000-$65,000

  • • Semi-custom cabinets
  • • Stone benchtops
  • • Quality appliances
  • • Island bench

Premium

$70,000-$120,000+

  • • Bespoke cabinetry
  • • Premium stone benchtops
  • • High-end appliances
  • • Walk-in pantry

Kitchen Renovation Budget Breakdown: Where Your Money Goes Australia

Typical breakdown for a $40,000 mid-range kitchen renovation:

Cabinets & Hardware $14,000 (35%)
Benchtops $6,000 (15%)
Appliances $8,000 (20%)
Labour (Installation) $6,400 (16%)
Plumbing & Electrical $3,200 (8%)
Splashback & Tiles $2,400 (6%)

Individual Kitchen Component Costs: Cabinets, Benchtops & Appliances 2026 Australia

Cabinets

Flat-pack (IKEA-style) $200-$400/m
Semi-custom (local cabinet maker) $600-$1,200/m
Full custom (premium materials) $1,500-$2,500/m

Benchtops

Laminate $200-$400/m
Engineered stone (Caesarstone) $600-$1,000/m
Natural stone (marble/granite) $800-$1,500/m

Appliances (Package)

Budget brands $3,000-$5,000
Mid-range (Bosch, Fisher & Paykel) $6,000-$10,000
Premium (Miele, Smeg, Gaggenau) $12,000-$30,000

Labour Costs

Kitchen designer/consultant $1,000-$3,000
Cabinet installation $2,000-$4,000
Electrician $1,500-$3,000
Plumber $1,500-$3,500

Money Saving Strategies: Kitchen Renovation on a Budget Australia

Smart Savings (Maintain Quality)

  • • Keep the layout: Saves $5,000-$10,000 on plumbing/electrical
  • • Mix and match: Premium benchtops with mid-range cabinets
  • • Shop sales: Wait for appliance sales (save 20-30%)
  • • Simple splashback: Subway tiles vs. expensive feature tiles
  • • Reuse what works: Keep existing appliances if functioning

Risky Savings (May Compromise)

  • • DIY installation: Risk of mistakes, voids warranties
  • • Cheapest quote: May indicate poor quality/hidden costs
  • • Unbranded materials: Durability and resale concerns
  • • Skip designer: May result in poor layout/functionality
  • • Cut corners on waterproofing: Expensive future repairs

Kitchen Renovation Costs by City: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane 2026 Australia

Kitchen renovation costs vary significantly by location. Here's how major cities compare to the national average:

Sydney Most expensive
+20-30%
Melbourne Above average
+15-25%
Brisbane Slightly above average
+10-15%
Perth / Adelaide Average pricing
±0%
Regional Areas Below average
-10-20%

Kitchen Renovation Timeline & Planning Australia

Typical Timeline:

Weeks 1-2:
Design, planning, and material selection
Weeks 3-4:
Demolition, rough plumbing/electrical
Weeks 5-6:
Cabinet installation, benchtop templating
Weeks 7-8:
Benchtops, splashback, appliances, finishing

Note: Custom cabinets add 4-6 weeks to lead time. Plan to be without a functional kitchen for 4-8 weeks.

Kitchen Renovation ROI: Value Added Australia

Value Added

Kitchen renovations typically return 60-80% of investment when selling.

Budget renovation ($20k) $12k-$16k value
Mid-range renovation ($40k) $24k-$32k value
Premium renovation ($70k) $42k-$56k value

Best ROI Features

  • 1. Stone benchtops: Expected by buyers, great return
  • 2. Quality appliances: Mid-range brands (Bosch, F&P)
  • 3. Fresh paint/new handles: Low cost, big visual impact
  • 4. Good lighting: LED downlights and under-cabinet lights
  • 5. Neutral colors: Appeals to broader buyer market
Modern kitchen renovation in Australia
Verified
Local Pros
Ready to Get Started?

Get Your Free Kitchen Renovation Quotes Today

Compare quotes from up to 3 licensed contractors and save on your renovation. Our verified professionals are ready to bring your dream kitchen to life.

Fast Response
Verified Professionals
No Obligation
100% Free Service
Compare Free Quotes
Takes 30 seconds
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions about this topic

1

How much does a kitchen renovation cost in Australia in 2026?

The average kitchen renovation costs between $25,000 and $45,000 for a mid-range renovation in Australia. Budget renovations start at $15,000-$25,000, while premium renovations can range from $45,000 to $80,000+. Costs vary based on kitchen size, quality of materials, and location, with Sydney kitchens costing 20-30% more than the national average.
2

How long does a kitchen renovation take?

Most kitchen renovations take 4-8 weeks from start to finish. This includes 2 weeks for planning and design, 2-4 weeks for demolition and installation, and 2 weeks for finishing touches. Custom cabinets can add 4-6 weeks to the lead time. Plan to be without a functional kitchen for the majority of this period.
3

What's the biggest cost in a kitchen renovation?

Cabinets and hardware typically represent 35% of the total cost, making them the single largest expense in a kitchen renovation. For a $40,000 renovation, expect to spend around $14,000 on cabinets. Benchtops (15%) and appliances (20%) are the next largest expenses.
4

Can I save money by keeping the kitchen layout the same?

Yes, keeping the existing kitchen layout can save $5,000-$10,000 on plumbing and electrical work. Moving sinks, dishwashers, or electrical outlets requires licensed tradies and can significantly increase costs. This is one of the smartest ways to reduce renovation costs without compromising quality.
5

Do I need council approval for a kitchen renovation?

Most kitchen renovations don't require council approval if you're working within the existing footprint and not making structural changes. However, you may need approval if you're removing walls, expanding the kitchen, or changing plumbing/drainage significantly. Always check with your local council before starting major work.
6

What's the ROI on a kitchen renovation?

Kitchen renovations typically return 60-80% of the investment when selling your home. A $40,000 mid-range renovation can add $24,000-$32,000 to your home's value. Mid-range renovations offer the best value-to-cost ratio, while over-capitalizing with ultra-premium materials may not provide good returns in average neighborhoods.
7

Should I choose IKEA cabinets or custom cabinets?

IKEA flat-pack cabinets cost $200-$400 per linear meter and are great for budget renovations, offering good quality at low prices. Semi-custom cabinets from local cabinet makers cost $600-$1,200/m and offer better customisation. Full custom cabinets at $1,500-$2,500/m are best for unique spaces or luxury renovations. For most homeowners, semi-custom offers the best balance of quality and value.
8

How much do kitchen benchtops cost?

Benchtop costs vary by material: Laminate $200-$400 per m², engineered stone (Caesarstone) $600-$1,000 per m², and natural stone (marble/granite) $800-$1,500 per m². Engineered stone is the most popular choice in Australia, offering durability, low maintenance, and good resale value.
9

Are kitchen appliances included in renovation quotes?

It depends on the quote. Some renovation quotes include allowances for appliances, while others price them separately. A mid-range appliance package (oven, cooktop, rangehood, dishwasher) from brands like Bosch or Fisher & Paykel costs $6,000-$10,000. Always clarify what's included in your quote to avoid surprises.
10

Can I DIY my kitchen renovation?

You can DIY some aspects like painting or installing flat-pack cabinets, but plumbing and electrical work must be done by licensed tradies in Australia. DIY installation may void warranties and can result in costly mistakes. Most homeowners save money and stress by hiring professionals for cabinet installation, benchtop templating, and trade work.
Free Quotes in 24 Hours

Compare Kitchen Renovation Quotes from Licensed Contractors

Compare prices from licensed kitchen contractors. No obligation, 100% free.

Licensed Contractors Only

All builders are fully licensed and insured

Save 15-25% on Your Kitchen

Average savings by comparing multiple quotes

Quotes in 24 Hours

Fast response from local contractors

Recent kitchen renovation quotes
Premium Kitchen - Sydney 2 hours ago
Mid-Range Kitchen - Melbourne 4 hours ago
Budget Refresh - Brisbane Yesterday
600+
kitchens renovated this year
Secure
No spam
No obligation
100% free
600+ kitchen renovations completed through The Wombat™

Expert Resources

The Wombat™ Kitchen Renovation Guides

Our expert guides to help you plan a successful renovation

Kitchen Renovation Cost Guide 2026

Complete breakdown of costs by renovation type, materials, and location.

Read Guide

10 Kitchen Renovation Mistakes to Avoid

Learn from common errors that can cost you time and money.

Read Guide

Kitchen vs Bathroom: Which First?

Expert advice on prioritising your home renovation projects.

Read Guide

How to Choose a Kitchen Renovator

Tips for finding and vetting the best contractors for your project.

Read Guide
View All Guides

Ready to renovate your kitchen?

Get Quotes

Robert M. from Armadale, WA

requested General Renovation

36 minutes ago