How Much Does a Concrete Driveway Cost in Melbourne?

If you’re planning a new driveway, cost is probably your first question. The honest answer depends on the size, finish, site conditions, and preparation. This guide explains typical price ranges and what drives them, so you can compare quotes with confidence. To see what’s possible, browse our concrete driveways service page.

Typical cost ranges

As a rough guide, a plain broom-finish concrete driveway in Melbourne often costs about $80 to $160 per square metre, supplied and laid. For a standard 40 m² driveway, that’s roughly $2,600 to $6,300. Decorative finishes cost more because they need extra materials and labour. Exposed aggregate is commonly quoted at around $120 to $210 per square metre, so a 40 m² driveway can cost roughly $4,800 to $9,000.

What affects the price?

Size. Larger pours usually have a lower per-square-metre rate, because setup costs are spread over more area. A small 10 m² slab can cost more per square metre than a 50 m² driveway.

Finish. Plain concrete is the most economical. Coloured, exposed aggregate, and stamped finishes add to the cost, but they can lift curb appeal and are often chosen for the visible front driveway.

Site preparation. Excavation, levelling, fill, compaction, and drainage all take time. If your site is sloped, expect to pay somewhat more, with some guides suggesting around $10 extra per square metre.

Removing old concrete. Breaking out and disposing of an existing driveway commonly adds around $30 to $80 per square metre, depending on thickness, reinforcement, and access.

Thickness and reinforcement. A residential driveway is commonly poured at around 100 mm minimum, with more thickness or steel reinforcement for heavier vehicles. Better base preparation and reinforcement can help reduce cracking, especially on Melbourne’s reactive clay soils.

Access. Tight access, limited truck access, or the need to pump concrete can raise labour costs.

Sealing. Sealing a finished surface typically adds around $8 to $15 per square metre, and it can help protect coloured and exposed aggregate surfaces.

Don’t forget the extras

A driveway quote may not include everything. Ask whether the price covers:

• Council approval and fees for a crossover (the section between the footpath and the road)
• Edging, expansion joints, and control joints
• Drainage, such as grates or channel drains
• Removal and disposal of old concrete and soil
• Sealing and any colour or additives
• Making good gardens, fences, or lawn afterwards

Crossover rules and fees vary by council, so check with your local council before you start.

Ways to manage your budget

• Choose finishes strategically. Use a decorative finish at the front and plain concrete for side paths.
• Bundle jobs. Combining a driveway, path, and patio can improve the overall rate.
• Compare quotes properly. Look at what’s included, not just the total. A cheaper quote may leave out prep, drainage, or removal.
• Plan for the long term. Good preparation can reduce future repairs, which matters more than saving a little upfront.

How to get an accurate price

The only reliable way to know what your driveway will cost is a site inspection. A contractor can measure the area, check the slope and access, look at the existing surface, and discuss finishes. Have a rough idea of your budget, your preferred finish, and any council requirements ready.

Ready to talk through your project? Request a free quote and our team can discuss options that suit your property and budget.

FAQs

1. What is the average cost of a concrete driveway in Melbourne?
   A standard plain concrete driveway of about 40 m² often costs roughly $2,600 to $6,300, depending on the contractor, site preparation, and extras. Decorative finishes cost more.
2. Is exposed aggregate more expensive than plain concrete?
   Usually, yes. It needs extra materials, labour, and finishing steps. Many homeowners find it worthwhile for the look and grip, particularly at the front of the house.
3. Does removing an old driveway cost extra?
   Typically, yes. Breaking out and disposing of old concrete often adds around $30 to $80 per square metre, depending on thickness and access.
4. Do I need council approval for a new driveway?
   If your driveway involves a crossover, you’ll usually need council approval and may pay a fee. Requirements differ between councils, so contact yours before work begins.
5. How long does a concrete driveway take to install?
   Many residential driveways are poured in a day once preparation is done, but the whole project takes longer. Concrete then needs time to cure before it can handle vehicle traffic, so your contractor will advise how long to wait.