Cost Guide
Plasterer Costs in Australia
Understand typical plasterer costs, key price drivers, and after-hours pricing before you request quotes.
Know what you should be paying
Describe your job and get an instant estimate — then compare quotes from local plasterers.
Hourly rate
$70/hr
Call-out fee
$95
After-hours
1.5x – 2.0x
Price Ranges
Common plasterer jobs & costs
Prices based on Australia market data. Most jobs are quoted as fixed price rather than hourly.
Ceiling Repair$766 – $2,629
Repair area and sizeNumber and distribution of patchesSubstrate condition and hazardsFinish quality requiredAccess, equipment and timing
Cornice Install or Repair$461 – $2,562
Repair vs full replacementCornice style and complexityLength and number of roomsAccess and scaffold requirementsRemoval and hazardous-material handling
New Plaster Lining$1,913 – $6,970
Board material and ratingWork location: ceiling versus wallRequired finish levelSite access and scaffold hireRemoval and substrate repairs
Patch Holes & Cracks$230 – $530
Extent of damageSubstrate conditionLocation and access heightFinish requirement (paint-ready)Site protection and access hire
General & other plastering jobs$275 – $765
Damage size and complexityBoard replacement versus patchingCallout fee and labour timeHidden substrate and hazardous materialsWaste disposal and make-good work
Replace Plasterboard$1,256 – $4,028
Area and repair sizeCeiling height and overhead workCombined walls and ceilings scopeAccess and equipment needsCondition of framing and services
Prices are indicative and based on typical jobs in the Australia area. Your actual quote may differ based on specific job requirements. Get a personalised estimate for your job, then matched tradies can reach out to quote.
Licensing & Compliance
Plasterer licensing requirements
Plasterer may require registration in Australia. Requirements vary by state. Here's what to know before hiring.
What to look for
- Valid state building or trade licence displayed on quotes and advertising
- ABN with active GST registration
- Public liability insurance ($5M minimum)
- HIA or Master Builders membership
- AWCI ANZ membership (Association of Wall and Ceiling Industries)
Requirements by state
New South Wales — Required for jobs over residential building work over 5000 · Verify
Victoria — Required for jobs over domestic building work over threshold · Verify
Queensland — Required for jobs over building work over 3300 · Verify
Western Australia — Required for jobs over building work over 20000 · Verify
South Australia — Required for jobs over building work over 20000 · Verify
Tasmania — Required for jobs over building work requiring licence · Verify
Northern Territory — Required for jobs over prescribed building work · Verify
Australian Capital Territory — Required for jobs over building work requiring licence · Verify
Common Questions
Plasterer pricing FAQ
How much do plasterers typically charge?
Plastering costs vary widely depending on the type of job, its size, access and the finish level required. This page shows live pricing for local jobs to help you compare. Plasterers commonly charge a call‑out component plus labour and materials, and after‑hours work usually attracts higher rates.
Do plasterers charge call-out fees?
Yes — call‑out fees are common and generally cover travel and the initial assessment. These fees are usually separate from hourly labour and materials, and may increase for after‑hours or urgent attendance. It's worth confirming any call‑out or minimum charge when requesting a quote.
When do plasterers need a licence?
Plasterers often need to be registered or hold a trade licence for larger or regulated building work, though small repairs may not require registration. Specific triggers and requirements vary by state and territory, so check the relevant state building authority. Many plasterers display a valid state trade licence on quotes and advertising, which can help confirm their credentials.
How accurate is the instant estimate?
Our estimates are built from research across thousands of local jobs and real pricing data. Use them as a guide when speaking to plasterers — your actual quote will depend on your specific job.
How many quotes will I get?
We'll match you with up to 3 plasterers initially. If you'd like more options, you can request additional matches.
Do I pay anything to get quotes?
No — the service is 100% free for homeowners.
Why do you need photos?
Clear photos cut surprises and price blowouts, saving you money.
Get a personalised estimate for your job
These are general ranges. Describe your job, get a tailored estimate in seconds — then matched local plasterers reach out to quote.