Whether your old fence just blew over in a storm or you're building new, the first question is always the same: how much per metre?
Fencing quotes in Melbourne can vary by hundreds of dollars per metre depending on the material, your block, and who you hire. Here's what to expect in 2026.
Fencing Cost Per Metre — Melbourne 2026
| Fence Type | Supply Only (per metre) | Installed (per metre) |
|---|---|---|
| Timber paling (treated pine, 1.8m) | $50 – $80 | $150 – $180 |
| Hardwood timber | $80 – $150 | $180 – $300 |
| Merbau | $150 – $250 | $250 – $400+ |
| Colorbond (standard, 1.8m) | $70 – $120 | $170 – $220 |
| Colorbond (premium/lattice top) | $100 – $180 | $200 – $280 |
| Aluminium slat | $120 – $200 | $250 – $450 |
| Picket fence | $80 – $150 | $150 – $350 |
For a typical 20–30 metre backyard fence in Melbourne, most homeowners spend between $3,000 and $7,500 fully installed.
Colorbond vs. Timber: Which Is Cheaper?
Upfront: Timber paling is usually cheaper to install, especially treated pine.
Long-term: Colorbond wins. Timber needs regular painting, staining, and treatment to prevent rot and termite damage. Colorbond needs a hose-down every six months and lasts 20–30 years with zero maintenance.
If you're planning to stay in the property, Colorbond is almost always the better value over time. If you're doing a quick cosmetic upgrade before selling, timber paling gets the job done cheaply.
What Affects Your Fencing Quote?
Fence length and height: Standard is 1.8m. Anything taller costs more per metre and may require a council permit (usually needed above 2.0m on boundary fences).
Terrain: Sloped blocks are significantly more expensive because each panel needs to be stepped or raked. Rocky soil or clay (common in Melbourne's eastern suburbs) also adds to post hole digging time and cost.
Access: If the installer can't get machinery to the fence line, everything has to be done by hand. Tight access between houses is common in inner Melbourne and adds labour costs.
Old fence removal: Expect $12–$20 per metre for removing an existing fence. Concrete post removal adds $30–$60 per post if they're deep.
Gates: A standard timber gate runs $150–$500. Colorbond gates cost $310–$620 supply-only. Automated or ornamental gates can exceed $5,000.
Retaining walls: If your fence sits on a slope and needs a retaining wall, add $250–$450+ per metre.
Labour Rates for Fencing in Melbourne
Melbourne fencing contractors generally charge $60–$90 per hour. Most quote by the metre rather than hourly, which makes it easier to compare.
Installation on flat, clear land is the cheapest. Add slope, rock, or restricted access and labour costs climb fast.
Do I Need Council Approval?
In most Melbourne councils:
- Boundary fences up to 2.0m — no permit required
- Front fences over 1.5m — permit usually required
- Fences in bushfire zones (BAL-rated areas) — must be non-combustible (Colorbond meets this requirement; timber doesn't)
Check with your local council before starting. Some heritage overlay zones have specific requirements for fence materials and colours.
Neighbour Contribution
Under the Fences Act 1968 (Vic), your neighbour is generally required to share the cost of a standard boundary fence. "Standard" means adequate for the purpose — not the most expensive option.
If you want premium Merbau and they only want to split the cost of basic paling, you'll likely need to cover the difference yourself.
How to Get the Best Price
- Get 3–4 quotes minimum. Prices vary significantly between Melbourne fencing contractors.
- Buy materials yourself if you're handy — some installers charge labour-only rates.
- Bundle jobs. If you need front and back done, combining them reduces mobilisation costs.
- Time it right. Winter is generally quieter for fencers — you may get better rates.
Is Your Fencing Quote Fair?
Fencing is one of those trades where quotes can differ by 50% or more for the exact same job.
Upload your fencing quote to TradieTruth and we'll compare it against real Melbourne pricing data. Free instant verdict — know if you're paying too much before you commit.
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