How Much Does a New Roof Cost in Australia?

Generally, homeowners spend more than $20,000 to $40,000 for a complete replacement, but the standard three-bedroom home costs from, $15000 to $30,000 in Australia with new Colorbond roofing. The specific cost depends on many factors, like the size and condition of the roof and the materials.

Replacing a roof is one of the biggest home improvement projects most homeowners face. If you're wondering how much a new roof painting costs in Australia. Roof replacement isn’t just about looks—it’s a big investment in your home’s safety and value. Whether you're budgeting for the cost to replace a 1700 sq ft roof or curious about the roof replacement cost per square foot in 2025, it's important to understand all the factors involved. From materials like metal and shingles to the labor cost to replace a roof per hour, every detail affects your final quote. Let’s break down everything so you know exactly what to expect before you commit.

Replacing a 1,500-square-foot roof costs homeowners an average of $9,313, but prices can range from $7,251–$11,084. See which factors can impact your total cost.

Average Cost of a New Roof in 2025.

In Australia, the average cost of a new roof in 2025 ranges from $10,000 to $25,000 for most homes. This is for a complete replacement, including removal of the old roof. If you're installing a simple asphalt shingle roof on a small home, expect the lower end of that range. A complex, tiled roof on a double-storey home can cost much more.

Prices vary by state and city. Sydney and Melbourne tend to be more expensive than Perth or Adelaide. The roof permit cost by the city or council also adds to the final bill. In most areas, you will need a building permit, which may cost between $200, $800, depending on your local rules. Always check with your local council.

New Roof Cost by Size (Per Square Foot or Meter).

Roofing prices are often given in roofing squares, which equals 10x10 feet or 100 square feet. In Australia, however, we also use square metres. A 170m² roof (about 1,830 sq ft) could cost $15,000 to $22,000, depending on material. The cost to replace a 1700 sq ft roof would fall within that range.

To explain better, here’s a table showing average costs:

Roof Size	Cost (Asphalt Shingles)	Cost (Metal Roofing)
100m²	$9,000	$13,000
150m²	$13,500	$19,500
200m²	$18,000	$26,000

The average roofing square size explained helps you estimate. Always measure your roof accurately and consider any slopes or overhangs. Roofs are rarely flat, and that affects the final price.

Roof Replacement Cost by Material Type.

Your choice of material makes a huge difference. Asphalt shingle roof cost by size is often the cheapest option. A basic asphalt roof can cost $90 to $120 per m². Architectural shingles, which last longer, may raise that cost slightly. Wondering what the average lifespan of architectural shingles is? It’s around 30 years.

Metal roofs, including Colorbond, are more expensive but last 40–50 years. Slate, tile, and cedar wood shingle roof prices in 2025 are even higher, not only because of materials but also the extra labor. Heavier roofs require more framing support. That’s where the structural load for a tile roof comes into play.

Material	Cost per m²	Lifespan
Asphalt	$90–$120	20–30 years
Metal	$130–$180	40–50 years
Tile	$150–$220	50+ years
Slate	$250+	75+ years

Labor Cost for Roof Installation.

Labor is often 60% of your total roofing cost. The labor cost to replace a roof per hour in Australia ranges from $65 to $120 per hour. The more complex your roof shape, the higher the price. Double-storey homes, steep angles, and hard-to-access roofs take more time.

Contractors with experience charge more, but they get the job done faster and better. You also need to pay for extra tasks like drip edge roof replacement cost, roof flashing and pipe boot cost, or ice and water barrier installation cost. These aren’t always listed in base quotes, so ask upfront.

Other Factors That Affect the Cost of a New Roof.

Besides material and labor, other elements can drive up your cost. If your home has old or rotted decking, you'll need to pay the cost to replace the roof underlayment. This layer is essential for stopping water leaks.

Extra items like drip edges, vents, flashing, and pipe boots all add up. So do disposal charges—how much does roof debris disposal cost? On average, between $500, $1,000. If your old gutters are removed, the gutter reinstall cost with roofing may add another $1,000 or more.

Should You Repair or Replace Your Roof?

Sometimes, full replacement isn’t necessary. If your roof is fairly new, a good contractor will tell you when a repair is enough. But if the roof is too old or has major issues, replacement is the safer choice.

Signs You Should Repair Your Roof.

When your roof is less than 10–15 years old, and damage is limited to a small area, repairs can work. Missing shingles or minor leaks caused by a storm can usually be fixed quickly.

Signs You Should Replace Your Roof.

If your roof is over 20 years old or you see signs like sagging, mold, or widespread leaks, it’s time for a full replacement. Delaying it can lead to worse damage inside your home.

What’s the Cost of a Metal vs Shingle Roof?

A common question is, "Is a metal roof cheaper than tile or slate?" The answer is yes, but it's pricier than asphalt shingles. While shingles are easy to install and affordable, they don’t last as long. Metal roofs cost more upfront but save money over time.

If you live near the ocean, aluminum or Colorbond roofing resists corrosion better than wood or tile. Your home’s shape and budget will help decide which one offers the best value.

How Much Does a New Roof Cost in Australia?

Let’s look at prices in key cities. In Sydney, expect to pay the highest—$20,000 to $30,000 for a medium-sized roof. Melbourne and Brisbane are slightly less. Perth usually offers better rates, around $14,000 to $22,000.

City	Average Roof Cost
Sydney	$20,000–$30,000
Melbourne	$17,000–$25,000
Brisbane	$15,000–$24,000
Perth	$14,000–$22,000

Regional areas can have lower costs, but also limited access to specialist roofers. Always get multiple quotes and ask about what's the difference between roofing squares and square feet. to ensure you're comparing fairly.

How to Choose the Right Roofing Contractor.

Picking the right contractor matters more than you think. Ask how long they’ve been in business and whether they’re licensed. Always request referrals, read reviews, and check if they include warranties on their work.

A quality roofer will answer your questions clearly, explain the contract, and tell you upfront Should I replace flashing during roof replacement? and other key items. Never go for the cheapest quote blindly—look for experience and value.

Tips to Save on Roof Replacement Costs.

You can save big if you’re smart. First, can I claim roof replacement on home insurance? Yes—if the damage was caused by storms, trees, or fire. Always take photos and call your insurer before starting any work.

Explore Homeowners Insurance Claims

Most policies won’t cover age-related wear, but they do cover damage. Use their list of approved contractors and follow the claims process strictly to avoid delays.

Negotiate Contractor Quotes

It’s okay to ask for discounts. Learn how to negotiate roof replacement quotes by comparing multiple quotes and pointing out where others offer better pricing. Many roofers are open to price matching.

Bundle Roof Work with Other Services.

If you also need guttering or insulation, bundle it in. Contractors often give better rates for bigger jobs. Just be sure to get everything in writing.

Best Time of Year to Get a Roof Installed.

What time of year is cheapest to get a roof replaced? Winter or late autumn, when demand is low. Roofers offer better deals in the off-season to stay busy.

FAQs About Roof Costs.

How long does roof installation take on average?

 Most homes take 3 to 5 days, depending on weather and complexity. Bigger homes or steep roofs can take longer.

What is the difference between shingles and shakes?

 Shingles are flat and uniform, while shakes are hand-split and rougher in appearance. Shakes cost more and are harder to install.

Does a new roof increase home value? 

Absolutely. A new roof boosts curb appeal, buyer confidence, and often returns over 60–70% of its cost in resale value.

Want to get a more accurate estimate for your home? Contact licensed contractors in your area and ask them for a detailed quote including materials, labor, and hidden costs. A smart investment today can save you thousands in repairs tomorrow.