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Plasterer Job Guide

Plasterer: Patch Plaster Walls and Ceilings

Patching holes and cracks usually involves filling, sanding and possible re-skim work, with access, substrate and finish needs shaping the job scope.

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Estimated range

inc GST

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$154 to $264

$154$1,381

Guide price only, quotes will vary.

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Patch Plaster Walls and Ceilings

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Pricing guide

Costs for patch repairs are driven by call-out fees, hourly labour and materials. Small, surface repairs on a sound substrate during normal hours are typically much less involved than ceiling work, repairs where the substrate is unsound, or jobs requiring extra skim coats and protection. If elevated access or specialist hire is needed, or you request a paint-ready finish, the scope and time usually increase.

  • Extent of damage

    Larger areas, multiple holes or widespread cracking usually require more labour and materials than a single small patch.

  • Substrate condition

    If the underlying plasterboard or substrate is delaminated, rotten or unstable, replacement or extra preparation is often needed.

  • Location and access height

    Ceiling repairs and other high-access locations typically take longer due to awkward posture and additional setup time.

  • Finish requirement (paint-ready)

    A request for a paint-ready or seamless finish usually requires extra sanding, additional skim coats and drying time.

  • Site protection and access hire

    Extra masking, floor protection and any scaffold/EWP hire commonly add setup time and widen the job scope.

See the full plasterer cost guide

Patch Plaster Walls and Ceilings

Estimated range

$154 – $264

How many holes or cracks need patching? 1

What moves this estimate

  • Extent of damage: Larger areas, multiple holes or widespread cracking usually require more labour and materials than a single small patch.
  • Substrate condition: If the underlying plasterboard or substrate is delaminated, rotten or unstable, replacement or extra preparation is often needed.
  • Location and access height: Ceiling repairs and other high-access locations typically take longer due to awkward posture and additional setup time.
  • Finish requirement (paint-ready): A request for a paint-ready or seamless finish usually requires extra sanding, additional skim coats and drying time.

Local results

Active providers

1,966

Average rating

4.7

  • “Amazing work! Charlie and Mac were fantastic. Skilled craftsmen, great communicators, punctual and very polite. So happy with the work they did in two days, highly recommend them…”

    Deb Evans

  • “John was the best! I thought I was just getting a plasterer, but instead got a coordinated team who transformed my living room into a truly beautiful space. Check out the before a…”

    Fiona Upward

  • “Sami and his team were amazing. We had a ceiling collapse in our living area and kitchen and they came to our rescue. They helped us through a very difficult time. They also fixed…”

    Michelle Drew

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Frequently asked questions

How long will a typical repair take?
Small surface patches are usually completed in a single visit and can take a few hours. Larger areas, ceiling work or repairs needing multiple skim coats typically require more time and sometimes a short follow-up for drying and finishing.
When is plasterboard replacement needed?
Replacement is generally needed if the substrate is delaminated, rotten or structurally unsound. For straightforward cracks or small holes, filling and sanding is usually sufficient, but your tradesperson can confirm after inspection.
Will the plasterer handle painting after repairs?
Painting is commonly arranged separately unless you request a paint-ready finish. A paint-ready result usually involves extra sanding and skim coats, so it's worth specifying this when requesting quotes.
Do plasterers need to be registered?
This trade generally requires registration, so it's advisable to confirm the plasterer holds appropriate registration and relevant insurance. Registered tradespeople are usually better placed to advise on required permits or compliance matters for larger repairs.
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.

Popular Services

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See ballpark pricing for popular plasterer jobs before you speak to a tradie.

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$2,104 – $7,667

Replace Plasterboard

$1,382 – $4,430

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$245 – $561

Plasterer General Help

$303 – $842

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