Are you planning a new driveway, patio, or concrete slab—but feeling unsure about how much it’s all going to cost?
You’re not alone. Many Australian homeowners and small business owners start concreting projects without a clear idea of the pricing—and end up facing unexpected costs or delays. From material types to local labour rates, there’s a lot that can affect your final quote.
The good news? With the right information, you can avoid budget blowouts and make smart decisions for your property.
In this guide, we’ll break down how much concreting costs in Hobart and across Australia, based on real market data and customer questions. Whether you’re concreting a small slab or a full driveway, this post will help you estimate your costs and understand exactly what you’re paying for.
Average Cost of Concreting in Australia
Concrete is generally priced per square metre, with costs varying by type. A standard concrete slab typically ranges from $65 to $90 per m². Exposed aggregate—known for its decorative, textured finish—costs around $100 to $150 per m². For decorative or stamped concrete, which offers custom patterns and colours, expect to pay between $100 and $180 per m². Prices may vary slightly in regions like Hobart due to local labour and site conditions.
Cost Range by Project Size
| Project Size | Estimated Cost (Standard Concrete) |
| Small patio (10 m²) | $650 – $900 |
| Driveway (30 m²) | $1,950 – $2,700 |
| Shed slab (50 m²) | $3,250 – $4,500 |
| Large area (100 m²) | $6,500 – $9,000 |
Cost Breakdown by Concrete Type
1. Concrete Driveway
Cost: $70 – $120 per m²
Often thicker and reinforced for vehicle traffic
Sloped or curved driveways may increase cost
2. Concrete Slab
Cost: $65 – $100 per m²
Costs depend on thickness (usually 100–150 mm) and reinforcement
Additional costs for plumbing or formwork setup
3. Exposed Aggregate Concrete
Cost: $100 – $150 per m²
Decorative finish where pebbles are visible on the surface
Slip-resistant and popular for driveways and outdoor areas
4. Decorative or Stamped Concrete
Cost: $100 – $180 per m²
Mimics the look of brick, stone, or tiles
Higher labour cost due to moulds and staining
Factors Affecting the Cost of Concreting
Prices can fluctuate based on multiple variables. Here are some key factors that affect how much concreting costs:
Site Preparation
Before pouring concrete, the site often needs clearing, levelling, or removal of old materials. This preparation is essential for a stable base and can add $10 to $25 per m², depending on how complex the job is. Sloped blocks or overgrown areas may require more work and equipment.
Concrete Thickness and Strength
The thickness of your slab plays a major role in both cost and performance. Standard concrete slabs are usually 100 mm thick, while driveways—which need to support vehicle weight—are typically 125 to 150 mm. Using higher-strength concrete mixes for added durability may increase the overall cost.
Labour and Equipment
Labour is generally included in the per-square-metre price, but certain jobs may need additional equipment. For example, tight-access areas or large pours may require concrete pumps or smaller machinery, which can add $500 to $1,000 to your total cost.
Access to Site
If your site is difficult to access—like a backyard with narrow pathways or no side entry—it can raise labour time and equipment needs. These conditions often lead to higher labour costs or the need for pumping, which adds to the final price.
Finishes and Reinforcements
Upgrading to polished, coloured, or stamped finishes will naturally increase your budget, as these are more labour-intensive and require specialised materials. Additionally, using reinforcement mesh or steel rebar improves the strength and longevity of the concrete, but adds to the material cost.
Concrete vs. Other Paving Alternatives
Concrete is a popular choice for driveways, patios, and outdoor areas because of its durability, low maintenance, and long-term value. However, it’s not the only option. If you’re considering alternatives like pavers, asphalt, or gravel, it’s important to understand how each compares in terms of cost, durability, and upkeep.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common paving materials:
Concrete
- Cost: $65 – $120 per m²
- Durability: High – long-lasting and resistant to weather and wear
- Maintenance: Low – minimal upkeep if properly sealed
- Best for: Long-term use, driveways, and structural surfaces
Pavers
- Cost: $90 – $150 per m²
- Durability: Moderate – can crack or shift over time
- Maintenance: Moderate – may require weed removal and re-levelling
- Best for: Decorative outdoor areas, walkways, or patios
Asphalt
- Cost: $45 – $80 per m²
- Durability: Moderate – prone to softening in heat and cracking over time
- Maintenance: Medium to high – requires periodic sealing and patching
- Best for: Driveways and commercial areas with budget constraints
Gravel
- Cost: $40 – $70 per m²
- Durability: Low to moderate – easily displaced and affected by weather
- Maintenance: High – frequent raking and refilling needed
- Best for: Rural properties, temporary driveways, or budget-friendly paths
While pavers allow more design flexibility, they often shift without proper foundations. Concrete, on the other hand, provides a stronger, more stable surface, especially when reinforced and correctly installed.
Ready to Get a Quote?
If you’re planning a concreting project in Hobart or greater Tasmania, get in touch with Hobart Concrete Contractors for a free site inspection and detailed quote. Whether you’re installing a driveway, patio, or shed slab, having a clear estimate helps you budget smarter and avoid hidden surprises.
Conclusion
So, how much does concreting cost in Hobart or across Australia? The answer depends on your project size, finish type, and site conditions—but expect to pay between $65 to $180 per square metre. For most homeowners and small business owners, concreting is a durable investment that pays off in low maintenance and long life.
FAQs
Why is concrete so expensive now?
Concrete prices have increased due to a combination of factors including rising material, energy, and transportation costs, as well as supply chain disruptions and increased demand. These factors have impacted the cost of producing and delivering concrete, making it more expensive than in the past.
Is it cheaper to DIY?
For smaller projects, DIY concrete mixing can be more cost-effective, but for larger or complex projects, ready-mix concrete might be a better choice due to convenience, consistency, and potential time savings.
How to estimate cost for 1000 sq ft (~93 m²)?
To estimate the cost of building a 1000 sq ft house, you need to determine the construction cost per square foot in your area and then multiply that by the total area. This cost will vary significantly based on location, material quality, and project complexity. For a rough estimate, you can use average costs from similar projects in your area or utilize online construction cost calculators.
