💰 How Much Does It Cost to Renovate a Bathroom in Melbourne, Victoria?
Thinking about renovating your bathroom but not sure what the price tag will look like? You’re not alone. Whether you’re planning a simple refresh or a full-blown makeover, the most common question we get is: “How much does it cost to renovate a bathroom in Melbourne?”
The answer? It depends.
But don’t worry—we’re not here to give vague guesses. As licensed builders who specialise in full-service bathroom renovations across Melbourne and regional Victoria, we’re breaking it all down: what’s realistic, what to budget for, and what you can (and can’t) do with $10,000.
💡 Average Cost of a Bathroom Renovation in Melbourne (2025)
Let’s start with the numbers. Here’s a general breakdown of bathroom renovation costs in Melbourne, based on current market rates and builder data:
Level | Estimated Cost Range |
Budget Makeover | $10,000 – $15,000 |
Mid-Range Reno | $18,000 – $28,000 |
High-End Luxury | $30,000 – $50,000+ |
These numbers vary depending on:
- The size of your bathroom
- Whether you’re changing the layout or keeping the same plumbing
- The quality of materials (e.g. tiles, vanities, tapware)
- How much structural or carpentry work is required
Whether you’re using a full-service builder or managing trades yourself
❓Can I Renovate My Bathroom for $10,000?
Short answer: Yes, but with limitations.
With a budget of $10,000, you’re looking at a basic cosmetic upgrade, not a full-scale renovation.
What you can do with $10k:
- Replace tapware and fittings
- Install a new toilet or vanity (basic models)
- Refresh tiles or repaint walls
- Replace a shower screen
- Upgrade lighting
What you likely can’t do:
- Move plumbing or reconfigure the layout
- Install a freestanding tub
- Choose high-end stone benchtops or premium tiles
- Include full waterproofing or retiling floor-to-ceiling
🛠️ From a builder’s perspective: if you’re trying to stretch $10k for a full renovation, be prepared to compromise on materials, finish quality, or scope. We often recommend saving a little more to avoid shortcuts that cost more in the long run.
💎 What Is the Most Expensive Part of a Bathroom Renovation?
Here’s a breakdown of where your money tends to go:
- Labour & Trades – Around 40–50% of your budget
- Plumbers, electricians, tilers, waterproofers, carpenters
- Plumbers, electricians, tilers, waterproofers, carpenters
- Waterproofing & Tiling – 20–30%
- Especially with floor-to-ceiling tile layouts
- Especially with floor-to-ceiling tile layouts
- Custom Joinery & Fixtures – 10–20%
- Vanities, shaving cabinets, storage
- Vanities, shaving cabinets, storage
- Demolition & Rubbish Removal – 5–10%
- Don’t forget to factor this in!
- Don’t forget to factor this in!
🚿 Waterproofing and tiling are often the most labour-intensive parts. They require skilled hands, compliance certificates, and must be done right—so this is not an area to DIY or skimp on.
🏗 What’s the Minimum Cost to Renovate a Bathroom?
The bare minimum for a legally compliant bathroom renovation in Melbourne (done professionally) is around $15,000.
Why?
Because even a “simple” reno involves:
- Licensed plumber & electrician
- Demolition and disposal
- Waterproofing and compliance certificates
- Carpentry (framing, niches, etc.)
- Fit-off and finishing work
🧱 If you’re using a full-service builder like us, this base cost covers:
- Project management
- Trade coordination
- Quality control
- Clean-up and handover
It’s easy to find cheap quotes—but beware. If a quote seems too good to be true, it usually is. Cutting corners in waterproofing or structural prep could cost you thousands down the line.
💸 What Impacts the Price of a Bathroom Renovation?
Here’s what will push your budget up (or help you bring it down):
Price-Increasers:
- Moving plumbing or drainage
- Installing a freestanding tub
- Choosing high-end tiles or fixtures
- Full wall tiling
- Custom joinery or carpentry
Cost-Savers:
- Keeping plumbing in the same place
- Using standard-sized vanities and fittings
- Opting for feature tile walls instead of full tiling
- Mixing premium and budget-friendly finishes
💡 Our job as builders is to help you balance your vision with your budget. That means guiding you toward smart swaps, efficient layouts, and durable finishes that still look amazing.
🧰 Real-World Budget Examples (From Our Projects)
Small Ensuite Refresh
💰 Budget: $15,000
🔧 New vanity, toilet, waterproofing, partial re-tiling, painting
📅 Timeline: 2.5 weeks
Mid-Range Family Bathroom
💰 Budget: $24,000
🔧 Full demo, layout retained, new bath, vanity, custom shower niche, tiling
📅 Timeline: 4 weeks
Luxury Main Bathroom
💰 Budget: $39,000
🔧 Custom-built vanity, frameless shower screen, underfloor heating, floor-to-ceiling tile
📅 Timeline: 5–6 weeks
🧠 FAQs
Is it cheaper to renovate multiple bathrooms at once?
Yes, there can be some cost savings in labour and logistics if trades are already on-site—especially if you’re doing an ensuite + main bathroom at the same time.
Can I save money by doing some parts myself?
Painting and styling, sure. But anything involving plumbing, waterproofing, or electrical must be done by licensed professionals to meet Victorian building codes.
How do I get the most value from my bathroom renovation?
Focus on layout, lighting, and smart material choices. You don’t need all high-end fittings—but good planning and quality installation always pay off.
🧼 Final Word: Plan Smart, Build Right, and Avoid the Budget Blowouts
Renovating your bathroom is an investment—not just in your home’s value, but in your daily lifestyle. The key to keeping costs under control (and your sanity intact) is working with a builder who manages the process from start to finish.
At the end of the day, a $20k bathroom done well will serve you far better than a rushed $10k reno that needs rework in 12 months.
📩 Want a personalised quote or budget breakdown for your bathroom?
Let’s talk! We’ll walk you through the options, help you prioritise your goals, and create a renovation plan that works for your budget and your home.
