If you are planning a new driveway, path, patio, slab or other concrete project, knowing the concrete cost per m² in Melbourne can make it much easier to set a realistic budget.

In 2026, Melbourne concreting prices vary considerably depending on the type of concrete, finish, site access, preparation and size of the project. Current Melbourne pricing data puts standard plain concrete at approximately $79 to $160 per m², with an average of around $115 per m². Decorative finishes such as exposed aggregate can range from approximately $125 to $210 per m².

These figures are useful as a starting point, but the price you receive from a concreter can be different once the site is inspected.

How Much Does Concrete Cost Per m² in Melbourne?

The following figures provide a general guide for residential concreting in Melbourne in 2026.

Pricing varies according to the project and the level of preparation required. These figures are based on current Melbourne market information and should be treated as a guide rather than a fixed price list.

For comparison, another Melbourne concreting provider currently lists plain concrete at around $85 to $120 per m², coloured concrete at $110 to $150, exposed aggregate at $130 to $180, and honed or polished aggregate at approximately $160 to $220 per m².

Why Does Concrete Cost So Much Per Square Metre?

It is easy to assume that the concrete itself makes up most of the price. In reality, a concreting project involves much more than supplying concrete.

Your quotation may include excavation, ground preparation, compacting the base, formwork, reinforcement, concrete delivery, placing, levelling, finishing, control joints and site cleanup.

Labour and equipment also need to be considered. If the site is difficult to access, additional labour or concrete pumping equipment may be necessary.

This is why two Melbourne properties with exactly the same sized driveway can receive very different quotations.

Plain Concrete Is Usually the Most Affordable Option

If keeping the budget under control is your priority, plain concrete is generally the simplest choice.

A standard grey concrete surface can provide a clean and durable finish for driveways, paths, patios, shed slabs and other residential applications.

Current Melbourne pricing places plain concrete around $79 to $160 per m², although straightforward projects with good access may fall towards the lower end of the range.

Plain concrete can also be finished in different ways, including broom and trowel finishes, depending on the appearance and level of grip required.

Exposed Aggregate Costs More

Exposed aggregate is one of the most popular decorative concrete finishes for Melbourne homes.

It works by exposing the natural stones within the concrete surface, creating a textured appearance that can complement landscaping, brickwork and modern home designs.

Because the process requires additional finishing work and selected aggregate materials, exposed aggregate generally costs more than standard concrete.

Current 2026 pricing guides place exposed aggregate at approximately $100 to $180 per m², with Melbourne projects commonly falling within a wider range depending on the aggregate and site conditions.

For homeowners wanting better street appeal without using individual pavers, exposed aggregate can be an attractive option.

Concrete Size Affects the Overall Price

The cost per square metre is useful, but the total project size is just as important.

For example, if a concrete area measures 40 m² and the installed rate is $115 per m², the basic calculation is:

40 m² × $115 = $4,600

At $150 per m², the same 40 m² area would cost approximately $6,000.

This is why measuring the area accurately before requesting quotes is worthwhile.

Keep in mind that small projects do not always work out cheaper on a strict per square metre basis. A concreter still needs to organise delivery, labour, equipment and preparation for a small job.

What Can Increase Your Concrete Cost?

Several site conditions can push the price above the standard Melbourne concrete cost per m².

Removing Existing Concrete

Replacing an old driveway or path requires demolition and disposal before the new concrete can be installed. Current Melbourne estimates put concrete removal at approximately $32 to $84 per m², depending on the job.

Difficult Site Access

Narrow side passages, steep blocks and restricted access can increase labour and equipment costs. Concrete may need to be moved by wheelbarrow over a significant distance or pumped into position.

Ground Preparation

Soft ground, unsuitable fill, tree roots and reactive soil can require additional excavation and base preparation.

Good preparation is important because the concrete relies on a stable foundation. Cutting corners during preparation can increase the risk of movement and cracking later.

Drainage

Driveways, patios and other external areas need suitable falls so water does not collect against the house or across the concrete surface.

Additional drainage work can increase the overall project cost, particularly where existing drainage needs to be modified.

Decorative Finishes

Coloured, exposed aggregate, stamped and other decorative finishes generally cost more than plain concrete because of additional materials and finishing work.

How Much Should You Budget for Concrete in Melbourne?

For a straightforward residential project, $100 to $150 per m² is a useful starting point when preparing a 2026 Melbourne budget.

However, do not base your decision on the square metre rate alone.

Ask each concreter for an itemised quotation that explains what is included. Check whether the price covers excavation, base preparation, reinforcement, formwork, concrete supply, finishing, joints, cleanup and removal of existing material.

A very low price may leave out important work that appears later as an additional cost.

Get an Accurate Concrete Price for Your Melbourne Property

There is no single concrete cost per m² that applies to every Melbourne property. The condition of the site, size of the project, chosen finish and access can all have a significant effect on the final price.

As a general 2026 guide, Melbourne homeowners can expect plain concrete to start around $79 per m², with many standard projects sitting closer to the $100 to $150 per m² range. Premium decorative finishes can reach $200 per m² or more.

The most reliable way to know what your project will cost is to have the area measured and inspected by an experienced local concreter. A proper site assessment allows the contractor to account for preparation, drainage, access, reinforcement and finish before providing a detailed quotation.