Updated [month 2026] · Independent guide
Bathroom & kitchen renovations: costs, materials and planning
What a new bathroom or kitchen really costs in Australia, which benchtops and surfaces last, and the steps to plan a reno without blowouts.
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What does your kitchen or bathroom need?
Our pick
Porcelain slab or laminate
Both handle knocks and spills well. Laminate is far cheaper; porcelain is tougher and heat resistant.
Porcelain slab or laminate
Both handle knocks and spills well. Laminate is far cheaper; porcelain is tougher and heat resistant.
Six benchtop and surface materials, side by side
| Material | Heat resistance | Scratch resistance | Installed, per lineal m | Best for | Guide |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Porcelain slabMatch | [$ – $] | Kitchens and vanities, premium look | Guide → | ||
| Natural stoneMatch | [$ – $] | Granite or marble feature kitchens | Guide → | ||
| LaminateMatch | [$ – $] | Budget kitchens, laundries, rentals | Guide → | ||
| Solid timberMatch | [$ – $] | Warm look, islands, butcher block | Guide → | ||
| Stainless steelMatch | [$ – $] | Heavy cooking, modern kitchens | Guide → | ||
| Solid surfaceMatch | [$ – $] | Vanities with seamless basins | Guide → |
Ratings out of 5 are draft, to be confirmed in each guide. Engineered stone is no longer sold in Australia (banned from 1 July 2024).
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Enter the floor or wall size. We add extra for cuts and breakages, so you buy enough tiles from the same batch.
Area0 m²
Plus 10%0 m²
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BoxesAdd the box size
Measure each wall separately and take out windows and doors. Keep a spare box from the same batch.
[Photo: renovated bathroom]
Start hereHow much does a bathroom renovation cost?Typical costs by city, what drives the price and where you can save.
ComparisonKitchen renovation cost
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