What Does Concreting Cost in Brisbane in 2026?
Whether you are planning a new driveway, extending your patio, building a retaining wall, or pouring a shed slab, the first question is always the same: how much is this going to cost?
This guide brings together real pricing data from hundreds of Brisbane concreting projects completed in 2025-2026. We cover every major concrete service, explain what drives the price up or down, and link to detailed cost breakdowns for each service type.
The short answer: most residential concreting in Brisbane costs between $65 and $170 per square metre installed, depending on the finish, site conditions, and project complexity. But the real answer depends on exactly what you need — so let us break it down.
Brisbane Concreting Prices at a Glance (2026)
| Service | Price Range (per m²) | Typical Project Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plain concrete (broom finish) | $65 – $90 | $3,250 – $4,500 | Shed slabs, side paths, utility areas |
| Coloured concrete | $75 – $110 | $3,750 – $5,500 | Driveways, patios, pool surrounds |
| Exposed aggregate | $100 – $160 | $5,000 – $8,000 | Driveways, entertaining areas, pool surrounds |
| Honed or polished concrete | $100 – $150 | $5,000 – $7,500 | Indoor floors, feature patios |
| Stencilled or stamped concrete | $90 – $140 | $4,500 – $7,000 | Driveways, patios, pathways |
| Concrete retaining walls | $350 – $750 per lineal metre | $3,500 – $15,000+ | Sloped blocks, garden beds, boundary walls |
| Excavation | $50 – $90 per m³ | $1,500 – $5,000+ | Site preparation for any concrete work |
| Concrete patios | $70 – $150 | $1,750 – $6,000 | Entertaining areas, outdoor living |
| Pool surrounds | $80 – $160 | $3,300 – $8,000 | Pool areas, slip-resistant finishes |
| Shed slabs | $65 – $130 | $1,950 – $7,800 | Sheds, garages, granny flats |
| Driveway crossovers | $70 – $150 | $2,100 – $6,000 | Vehicle crossings, council-compliant |
All prices include GST and are based on standard residential projects in the Brisbane metropolitan area. Actual costs vary based on site access, soil conditions, reinforcement requirements, and project complexity.
Concrete Driveway Cost Brisbane
A concrete driveway is the most common residential concreting project in Brisbane. Prices depend primarily on the finish you choose and the size of your driveway.
| Driveway Type | Cost per m² | 50m² Driveway | 80m² Driveway |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plain concrete (broom finish) | $65 – $90 | $3,250 – $4,500 | $5,200 – $7,200 |
| Coloured concrete | $80 – $110 | $4,000 – $5,500 | $6,400 – $8,800 |
| Exposed aggregate (standard) | $100 – $140 | $5,000 – $7,000 | $8,000 – $11,200 |
| Exposed aggregate (premium) | $130 – $170 | $6,500 – $8,500 | $10,400 – $13,600 |
| Stencilled / stamped | $90 – $130 | $4,500 – $6,500 | $7,200 – $10,400 |
Most Brisbane driveways are between 40m² and 80m², with the average project costing $5,000 to $9,000 for a quality exposed aggregate finish.
What affects the price: Demolition of existing driveway (+$15-30/m²), excavation depth, slope of the block, distance from truck access, reinforcement type (mesh vs rebar), and whether you need council crossover permits.
👉 Read the full guide: Concrete Driveway vs Pavers: Which Is Better Value?
Exposed Aggregate Cost Brisbane
Exposed aggregate is Brisbane's most popular decorative finish. The stone blend you choose is the biggest factor in pricing.
| Stone Blend | Cost per m² | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard blend (Canberra, Goulburn) | $100 – $140 | Most popular choice |
| Premium blend (custom colours) | $130 – $170 | Imported or specialty stones |
| Designer blend (rare aggregates) | $150 – $200+ | Unique finishes, limited availability |
The total project cost for exposed aggregate depends on the area size. A typical 50m² driveway in standard exposed aggregate costs $5,000 to $7,000 fully installed including formwork, reinforcement, concrete, finishing, and initial sealer application.
What affects the price: Stone blend selection, border treatments (coloured concrete borders add $10-20/m²), sealer type, and whether the project includes curves or complex shapes.
👉 Read the full guide: How Much Does Exposed Aggregate Cost in Brisbane?
Concrete Retaining Wall Cost Brisbane
Retaining walls are priced per lineal metre rather than per square metre, and the cost increases significantly with wall height due to engineering requirements.
| Wall Height | Cost per Lineal Metre | 10m Wall Total |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 600mm | $350 – $500 | $3,500 – $5,000 |
| 600mm – 1m | $500 – $750 | $5,000 – $7,500 |
| 1m – 1.5m | $750 – $1,200 | $7,500 – $12,000 |
| Over 1.5m | $1,200 – $2,000+ | $12,000 – $20,000+ |
Walls over 1 metre typically require engineering certification, which adds $800-$1,500 to the project. Brisbane City Council requires a building application for retaining walls over 1 metre high, adding another $500-$1,000 in fees and processing time.
What affects the price: Wall height (biggest factor), soil type, drainage requirements, engineering certification, council approvals, and whether the wall is stepped or continuous.
👉 Read the full guide: How Much Does a Concrete Retaining Wall Cost in Brisbane?
Excavation Cost Brisbane
Almost every concreting project requires some excavation. Understanding excavation costs helps you budget accurately for the total project.
| Excavation Type | Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Machine excavation (per m³) | $50 – $90 | Standard residential |
| Hand excavation (per m³) | $80 – $150 | Restricted access areas |
| Rock excavation (per m³) | $120 – $250+ | Rock hammer or breaker required |
| Tip fees (per m³) | $30 – $80 | Clean fill vs contaminated soil |
A typical driveway excavation (50m² × 150mm deep = 7.5m³) costs $375 to $675 plus tip fees. However, if you hit rock or need hand excavation due to limited access, costs can double or triple.
What affects the price: Soil type (clay vs rock), access for machinery, depth required, disposal distance to tip, and whether the material is clean fill or contaminated.
👉 Read the full guide: Excavation Cost Brisbane 2026
Concrete Slab Cost Brisbane
Concrete slabs for sheds, garages, granny flats, and house extensions are priced based on thickness, reinforcement, and site preparation.
| Slab Type | Cost per m² | 30m² Slab | 60m² Slab |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shed slab (100mm, mesh) | $65 – $85 | $1,950 – $2,550 | $3,900 – $5,100 |
| Garage slab (100mm, rebar) | $75 – $95 | $2,250 – $2,850 | $4,500 – $5,700 |
| House slab (waffle pod) | $90 – $130 | $2,700 – $3,900 | $5,400 – $7,800 |
| Thickened edge slab | $85 – $110 | $2,550 – $3,300 | $5,100 – $6,600 |
What affects the price: Slab thickness, reinforcement type (mesh vs rebar vs post-tensioned), edge beam requirements, site preparation, and whether plumbing or electrical conduits need to be cast in.
👉 Read the full guide: Concrete Shed Slab Cost Brisbane 2026
👉 Learn more: Concrete Slabs Brisbane
Concrete Patio Cost Brisbane
Outdoor entertaining areas are one of the best investments Brisbane homeowners can make. A quality concrete patio adds usable living space and increases property value.
| Patio Finish | Cost per m² | 25m² Patio | 40m² Patio |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plain concrete | $70 – $90 | $1,750 – $2,250 | $2,800 – $3,600 |
| Coloured concrete | $85 – $110 | $2,125 – $2,750 | $3,400 – $4,400 |
| Exposed aggregate | $110 – $150 | $2,750 – $3,750 | $4,400 – $6,000 |
| Stencilled / stamped | $95 – $130 | $2,375 – $3,250 | $3,800 – $5,200 |
What affects the price: Finish type, integration with existing structures, step-downs or level changes, drainage requirements, and whether demolition of existing surfaces is needed.
👉 Read the full guide: Concrete Patio Cost Brisbane 2026
👉 Learn more: Concrete Patios Brisbane
Pool Surround Cost Brisbane
Pool surrounds require specific considerations for slip resistance, heat reflection, and chemical resistance.
| Surround Type | Cost per m² | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Exposed aggregate | $110 – $160 | Most popular for pools — excellent grip |
| Honed concrete | $100 – $140 | Smooth but still slip-resistant |
| Coloured concrete (broom) | $80 – $110 | Budget-friendly option |
| Stamped / stencilled | $100 – $140 | Decorative patterns available |
A typical pool surround (30-50m²) costs $3,300 to $8,000 depending on the finish and complexity. Light-coloured stone blends are recommended around pools as they stay cooler underfoot in Brisbane's summer heat.
👉 Read the full guide: Concrete Pool Surround Cost Brisbane 2026
👉 Learn more: Pool Surrounds Brisbane
Driveway Crossover Cost Brisbane
A driveway crossover (vehicle crossing) connects your driveway to the street. In Brisbane, crossovers require a BCC permit and must meet council specifications.
| Crossover Type | Cost per m² | Typical Project Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Plain concrete crossover | $70 – $100 | $2,100 – $4,000 |
| Coloured concrete crossover | $85 – $120 | $2,550 – $4,800 |
| Exposed aggregate crossover | $110 – $150 | $3,300 – $6,000 |
| Heavy-duty crossover (commercial) | $120 – $180 | $3,600 – $7,200 |
Most residential crossovers are 15-30m². BCC permit fees add $300-$600 to the total cost. If you are replacing an existing crossover, demolition adds $15-30/m².
What affects the price: Crossover width, finish type, council permit requirements, demolition of existing crossover, and whether kerb modifications are needed.
👉 Read the full guide: Driveway Crossover Cost Brisbane 2026
What Factors Affect Concreting Costs in Brisbane?
Understanding what drives pricing helps you make informed decisions and avoid surprises on your quote.
1. Site Access
If a concrete truck cannot get within 3 metres of the pour site, concrete must be pumped or wheelbarrowed in. Concrete pumping adds $800 to $1,500 to a typical residential project. Poor access is the single most common reason quotes come in higher than expected.
2. Demolition and Removal
Removing an existing concrete driveway or slab adds $15 to $30 per square metre to the project. This includes breaking, loading, and disposing of the old concrete at an approved tip.
3. Soil Conditions
Brisbane's soil varies dramatically by suburb. Clay-heavy areas (like parts of Logan and Springfield) may require deeper excavation and better drainage. Rocky areas (like parts of The Gap and Kenmore) may need rock hammering at premium rates.
4. Slope and Levels
Sloped blocks require more formwork, more concrete (thicker at the low end), and potentially retaining walls. A significant slope can add 20-40% to the base cost of a flat-site project.
5. Reinforcement Requirements
Standard mesh reinforcement is included in most quotes. However, heavy vehicle loads (driveways for caravans or boats), expansive soils, or council requirements may necessitate rebar reinforcement, adding $8 to $15 per square metre.
6. Finish Selection
The finish you choose has the biggest impact on per-square-metre pricing. Plain broom-finished concrete is the most affordable, while premium exposed aggregate with custom stone blends sits at the top of the range.
7. Project Size
Larger projects have a lower per-square-metre cost due to economies of scale. A 20m² path will cost more per square metre than a 100m² driveway because setup, formwork, and mobilisation costs are spread over a smaller area.
How to Get the Best Value on Your Concreting Project
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Get 2-3 quotes — but compare like for like. Make sure each quote includes the same finish, reinforcement, and scope of work.
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Ask about inclusions — a cheaper quote that excludes excavation, tip fees, or sealing is not actually cheaper.
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Consider the long-term cost — exposed aggregate at $120/m² that lasts 30+ years with minimal maintenance is better value than pavers at $100/m² that need re-levelling and re-sanding every few years.
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Check credentials — ensure your concreter holds a current QBCC licence, has adequate insurance, and can provide references from recent Brisbane projects.
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Time your project — Brisbane's dry season (April to October) is peak concreting season. You may find slightly better availability and pricing in the quieter summer months, though rain delays are more common.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does concreting cost per square metre in Brisbane?
Most residential concreting in Brisbane costs between $65 and $170 per square metre in 2026. Plain concrete starts from $65/m², coloured concrete from $75/m², and exposed aggregate from $100/m². These prices include labour, materials, formwork, reinforcement, and finishing. Excavation and demolition are usually quoted separately.
What is the cheapest type of concrete finish?
Plain broom-finished concrete is the most affordable option at $65 to $90 per square metre. It is durable, low-maintenance, and suitable for shed slabs, side paths, laundry areas, and utility spaces. For a more attractive finish on a budget, coloured concrete ($75-$110/m²) adds visual appeal without a large price jump.
How much does a concrete driveway cost in Brisbane?
A standard two-car concrete driveway (50-60m²) in Brisbane costs between $3,250 and $10,200 depending on the finish. Plain concrete driveways start from around $3,250, while exposed aggregate driveways typically cost $5,000 to $8,500. The final price depends on demolition requirements, excavation depth, site access, and the finish you choose.
Is exposed aggregate worth the extra cost?
For driveways and outdoor entertaining areas, exposed aggregate is generally considered excellent value. It costs 30-50% more than plain concrete upfront but offers superior aesthetics, better slip resistance, lower heat retention, and a 30+ year lifespan with minimal maintenance. Most Brisbane homeowners who choose exposed aggregate report high satisfaction with their investment.
Do I need council approval for concreting?
Standard residential concreting (driveways, patios, slabs) generally does not require council approval in Brisbane. However, you will need approval for: retaining walls over 1 metre high, new crossovers (driveway connections to the street), and any work that changes stormwater drainage patterns. Your concreter should advise you on permit requirements for your specific project.
How long does a concrete driveway last?
A properly installed and maintained concrete driveway in Brisbane should last 30 to 50 years. The key to longevity is correct sub-base preparation, adequate reinforcement, proper curing, and regular sealing (every 2-5 years depending on the finish). Exposed aggregate and plain concrete both have similar lifespans when properly maintained.
Get a Free Quote for Your Brisbane Concreting Project
Every project is different, and the best way to get an accurate price is with a free on-site quote. At Concrete Concepts Group, we provide detailed written quotes within 24 hours of your site visit — no hidden costs, no surprises.
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Concrete Concepts Group
QBCC Licensed (#15299707) concreting professionals serving Brisbane and all surrounding areas. Over 100 projects completed with a 5-star reputation.
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