Accurate material estimates save time and budget. Below are essential formulas and references for common building materials. For precise results, use our dedicated calculators (linked in each section).
All our trade calculators use Australian standards (AS/NZS) and metric units.
Each state manages its own licensing. Operating without the correct licence can lead to fines or legal action. Below is a quick reference — always verify with the local authority.
| State | Builder licence | Electrician | Plumber | Authority website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NSW | Contractor licence (class 2,3 etc) | Electrical licence (Fair Trading) | Plumber licence (Fair Trading) | fairtrading.nsw.gov.au |
| VIC | Domestic builder (DB-U) or commercial | Registered electrical contractor (ESV) | Plumbing registration (VBA) | vba.vic.gov.au |
| QLD | Builder licence (QBCC) | Electrical licence (BSA) | Plumbing licence (QBCC) | qbcc.qld.gov.au |
| WA | Building practitioner (DMIRS) | Electrical contractor (Building and Energy) | Plumbing contractor (Plumbers Board) | dmirs.wa.gov.au |
| SA | Building work contractor (CBS) | Electrical worker (CBS) | Plumbing worker (CBS) | cbs.sa.gov.au |
| TAS | Builder licence (CBOS) | Electrical licence (CBOS) | Plumbing licence (CBOS) | cbos.tas.gov.au |
💡 Tip: most licences require proof of qualifications, insurance (public liability), and sometimes a business name registration.
Work Health and Safety (WHS) is paramount. Recent 2026 updates include stricter silica dust control and high‑risk work licences. Key areas:
Refer to Safe Work Australia for model codes and your state regulator for enforcement.
Typical costs (2026, national average ex‑GST). Use these as a starting point; regional variations apply.
| Item | Unit | Low range ($) | High range ($) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Concrete (ready‑mix N25) | per m³ | 240 | 320 |
| Reinforcing mesh (SL72) | per sheet | 95 | 130 |
| Timber framing (MGP10) | per linear m | 4.50 | 8.00 |
| Bricks (standard clay) | per 1000 | 850 | 1200 |
| Gyprock (10mm standard) | per sheet | 45 | 65 |
| Plasterer labour | per hour | 60 | 90 |
| Electrician (call‑out + labour) | per hour | 85 | 130 |
| Plumber (labour) | per hour | 80 | 120 |
For detailed project estimates (e.g., cost to build a house, renovation per m²) check our Building Cost Calculator.
Material rates and licence rules sourced from state regulators and trade associations.
Includes latest WHS silica bans, licence fee changes, and cost indexes.
Mobile‑friendly tables and calculators — use them from the truck or the roof.