How Much Does It Cost to Paint a House in Melbourne?

If you are planning to repaint your home, one of the first questions you will probably ask is, how much does it cost to paint a house in Melbourne?

The honest answer is that it depends on the size of your home, the condition of the walls, whether you are painting the interior, exterior or both, and how much preparation is needed before the first coat goes on.

As a general guide, painting a house in Melbourne can cost anywhere from a few thousand dollars for a smaller interior repaint through to $20,000 or more for a full interior and exterior repaint on a larger or more detailed home.

That might sound like a wide range, but there is a good reason for it. A freshly built apartment with smooth plasterboard walls is a very different job from a Victorian home with high ceilings, decorative cornices, cracked plaster and detailed timber trims.

At Alleviate Plaster & Paint, we look at the full surface before quoting. That means the paint finish is not just about colour. It is about preparation, plaster repair, product choice and the right process for the home.

Average Cost to Paint a House in Melbourne

Every home is different, but these rough ranges can help you start planning your budget.

These figures are only a guide. The final cost depends on the condition of your surfaces, the amount of detail, the paint system used and the access required.

For example, a modern three-bedroom home with clean walls and standard ceiling heights will usually sit at the lower end of the range. An older Melbourne home with cracked plaster, peeling paint, water damage, high ceilings and decorative trims will cost more because the preparation takes longer.

If you want a more accurate figure for your home, it is best to book a site assessment with a professional house painting team.

How Much Does Interior House Painting Cost in Melbourne?

Interior painting is often priced based on the size of the home, the number of rooms, the condition of the walls and whether you are painting ceilings, doors, skirting boards, architraves and trims.

As a rough guide, interior painting in Melbourne may cost:

Interior painting costs can increase if the home has:

• High ceilings
• Cracked plaster
• Water stains
• Peeling or flaking paint
• Dark colours being painted over
• Detailed trims and doors
• Decorative cornices
• Poor previous paintwork
• Furniture that needs to be moved and protected

Many homeowners compare painting quotes by price alone, but the scope matters more. One quote may only include walls, while another may include ceilings, trims, doors, patching and multiple coats.

For a cleaner result, it is worth making sure your quote clearly states what is included. If you are repainting the inside of your home, you can learn more about our interior painting services.

How Much Does Exterior House Painting Cost in Melbourne?

Exterior painting usually costs more than interior painting because it involves more preparation, more durable paint systems and more access requirements.

As a general guide, exterior house painting in Melbourne can range from $8,000 to $20,000+ for a single storey home and $15,000 to $30,000+ for a double storey home.

Exterior painting costs are affected by:

• Whether the home is single or double storey
• Access around the property
• Whether scaffolding or elevated work platforms are needed
• The condition of the existing paint
• Cracks, gaps or damaged surfaces
• Timber, render, brick or weatherboard surfaces
• Fascias, eaves, windows and trims
• The number of coats required
• Weather delays

Melbourne’s weather can also make exterior painting more complex. A professional painter needs to consider temperature, rain, wind and drying time. The aim is not just to get paint on the wall. The aim is to apply it in the right conditions so it bonds properly and lasts.

If your exterior paint is faded, peeling or no longer protecting the surface underneath, it may be time to look at professional exterior painting.

Why House Painting Prices Vary So Much

It is common for homeowners to get several painting quotes and wonder why the prices are so different.

Usually, the difference comes down to preparation, inclusions and quality.

A cheaper quote may not include much surface preparation. It may only allow for a quick sand, one coat in some areas, lower grade paint or minimal patching. That might look acceptable at first, but poor preparation often shows up later through peeling, cracking, patchy coverage or visible defects.

A more complete quote usually allows time for:

• Protecting floors, fixtures and furniture
• Washing or cleaning surfaces
• Scraping loose paint
• Sanding rough areas
• Filling gaps and cracks
• Repairing damaged plaster
• Sealing stains
• Applying primer where needed
• Using the right paint for each surface
• Applying the correct number of coats
• Cleaning up properly at the end

Painting is one of those jobs where the final finish depends heavily on what happens before the paint goes on.

The Biggest Cost Factor: Wall and Plaster Condition

One of the most overlooked factors in house painting cost is the condition of the walls.

If your plaster is already smooth, straight and damage-free, the painting process is more straightforward. If your walls have dents, cracks, old patch repairs, water damage or movement cracks, they need to be fixed first.

Common plaster issues that can affect painting costs include:

• Settlement cracks
• Nail pops
• Ceiling cracks
• Cornice cracks
• Water damaged plasterboard
• Poor previous patching
• Uneven joins
• Holes from old fixtures
• Peeling paint caused by moisture
• Sagging or damaged sections

This is where Alleviate Plaster & Paint is different from a standard painting contractor. Because we handle both plastering and painting, we can properly prepare the surface before finishing it.

If your walls need work before painting, it may be worth looking at plaster repair before booking a repaint. For larger repairs or new surfaces, our plastering services can help get the walls ready for a better finish.

Cost to Paint a House by Size

The size of your home has a major impact on cost, but it is not just about the number of bedrooms. A large open-plan living area, long hallway, high ceilings or extra trims can add more painting time than a simple bedroom.

Here is a rough guide.

1 Bedroom Unit or Apartment

A one-bedroom unit may cost around $2,500 to $5,000+ for an interior repaint, depending on the condition and inclusions.

The lower end usually applies when the walls are in good condition and only need a straightforward repaint. The higher end may apply if ceilings, doors, trims, plaster repairs or detailed preparation are included.

2 Bedroom Home or Apartment

A two-bedroom property may cost around $3,500 to $7,000+ for interior painting.

Costs may rise if the home has older plaster, high ceilings, detailed architraves or multiple colours.

3 Bedroom House

A three-bedroom house in Melbourne may cost around $5,000 to $10,000+ for interior painting.

The final cost will depend on whether the quote includes walls only, or walls, ceilings, trims, doors and preparation.

Larger Family Home

Larger homes can range from $10,000 to $20,000+ for the interior alone.

This is especially true for homes with multiple living areas, stairwells, high ceilings, detailed trims or significant plaster repairs.

Cost to Paint a House by Surface Type

Different surfaces require different products and preparation.

Plasterboard Walls

Plasterboard is common in modern Melbourne homes. If the walls are in good condition, they are usually easier to paint. If there are dents, joins, cracks or old patch marks, they need to be repaired first.

Rendered Exterior Walls

Rendered surfaces may need washing, crack repair, sealing and a suitable exterior coating. If the render is cracked or chalky, extra preparation may be required.

Weatherboard Homes

Weatherboard homes can take more time because each board needs proper preparation. Peeling paint, gaps, timber movement and weather exposure can all affect the price.

Brick Surfaces

Painted brick needs the right preparation and breathable coatings. If the wrong paint is used, moisture issues can occur.

Timber Trims and Windows

Timber windows, skirting boards, doors and trims usually take longer than flat walls because they require sanding, undercoating and careful brushwork.

What Is Included in a Professional House Painting Quote?

A proper painting quote should make the scope clear. This helps you compare quotes properly and avoid surprises.

A good quote should include:

• The areas being painted
• Whether walls, ceilings, trims and doors are included
• Surface preparation details
• Plaster repairs, if included
• Number of coats
• Paint brand or product range
• Access requirements
• Estimated timeframe
• Clean-up expectations
• Warranty details, if applicable

If a quote is vague, ask for more detail. A line that simply says “paint house” does not tell you much. You want to know what is included, what is excluded and how the painter plans to prepare the surfaces.

Interior vs Exterior Painting: Which Costs More?

Exterior painting often costs more because it involves more preparation, tougher paint systems and more safety considerations.

Interior painting is usually more controlled. The surfaces are protected from weather, access is easier and drying conditions are more predictable.

Exterior painting has more variables, including:

• Weather exposure
• UV damage
• Moisture
• Height access
• Scaffolding
• Surface movement
• Dirt, mould and chalking
• Peeling paint
• Timber or render repairs

That said, interior painting can still become expensive if there is a lot of detail or repair work involved.

For example, painting a simple modern exterior may be more straightforward than repainting the interior of an older home with high ceilings, decorative cornices and damaged plaster.

Does Paint Quality Affect the Cost?

Yes. Paint quality affects both the upfront cost and the long-term result.

Cheaper paint may reduce the quote slightly, but it can require more coats, mark more easily or fail sooner. Higher quality paints usually provide better coverage, better washability and stronger durability.

The right paint also depends on the area being painted.

For example:

• Bedrooms and living areas may need washable low-sheen paint
• Bathrooms and laundries need moisture-resistant paint
• Kitchens need durable, easy-clean finishes
• Exteriors need UV and weather-resistant coatings
• Doors and trims often need a tougher enamel or water-based trim paint

A professional painter should recommend products based on the surface, not just the colour.

Can You Save Money by Doing Some Preparation Yourself?

Sometimes, yes. There are simple things you can do before painters arrive that may help reduce labour time.

You can:

• Move small furniture out of rooms
• Remove wall hooks or small fixtures
• Clear access around exterior walls
• Trim plants away from the house
• Decide on colours early
• Make sure pets and children are kept away from work areas
• Let the painter know about known leaks or moisture issues

However, be careful with DIY patching, sanding or painting over problem areas. Poor preparation can make the final job harder and may cost more to fix.

If the wall has cracks, water damage or uneven plaster, it is usually better to have it repaired properly before painting.

Is It Worth Painting Before Selling a House?

In many cases, yes.

Fresh paint can make a home feel cleaner, brighter and better maintained. It can also help buyers see the property as move-in ready.

If you are painting before selling, neutral colours are usually the safest option. The goal is to make the home feel fresh and appealing without choosing colours that may divide buyers.

The most important areas to focus on are:

• Entryways
• Living areas
• Kitchens
• Hallways
• Main bedrooms
• Exterior street-facing areas
• Areas with visible cracks, marks or peeling paint

If there are visible plaster cracks or water stains, fixing those before painting can make a big difference. Buyers often notice wall and ceiling defects, even if the paint colour is new.

DIY vs Hiring Professional Painters

DIY painting can look cheaper at first, especially for a small room. But it is easy to underestimate the time, tools and preparation involved.

For a full house repaint, DIY can take several weekends or longer. You will also need to buy brushes, rollers, trays, drop sheets, tape, sandpaper, filler, ladders and paint.

The main risks with DIY painting are:

• Uneven coverage
• Roller marks
• Paint bleeding under tape
• Poor cutting-in
• Drips on floors or fixtures
• Missed preparation
• Wrong paint selection
• Visible plaster defects
• Peeling or cracking later

Professional painters bring the right process, tools and experience. They can also spot issues that may affect the finish before work starts.

If you are only repainting a small bedroom, DIY may be fine. If you are painting a whole home, preparing for sale or dealing with damaged plaster, hiring a professional is usually the better option.

How to Compare Painting Quotes in Melbourne

When comparing quotes, do not just look at the final number. Look at what each painter has allowed for.

Ask these questions:

1. Are walls, ceilings, trims and doors included?
2. How many coats are included?
3. Is plaster repair included?
4. What paint products will be used?
5. Is surface preparation included?
6. Are access costs included?
7. How long will the job take?
8. Will furniture and flooring be protected?
9. Is clean-up included?
10. Is there a workmanship warranty?

The cheapest quote is not always the best value. A better-prepared paint job will usually last longer and look better.

Why Choose Alleviate Plaster & Paint?

Alleviate Plaster & Paint provides professional painting and plastering services across Melbourne.

Because we handle both trades, we can take care of the full process from wall repair to final coat. That means you do not need to organise a plasterer first and a painter later. We can assess the surface, repair what is needed and finish it properly.

Our services include:

• House painting
• Interior painting
• Exterior painting
• Commercial painting
• Plaster repair
• General plastering
• Painters Melbourne

We work across a range of Melbourne suburbs, including areas such as Ivanhoe, Heidelberg, Eltham, Greensborough, Richmond, Southbank, Port Melbourne, Prahran, Moonee Ponds, Essendon, Glen Iris, Balwyn, Doncaster, Toorak, South Yarra, Brighton, Malvern, Kew, Hawthorn, Camberwell, Brunswick, Northcote and Fitzroy.

So, How Much Does It Cost to Paint a House in Melbourne?

As a simple guide, a smaller interior repaint may start from a few thousand dollars, while a larger full house repaint can cost $20,000 or more.

The final price depends on:

• Home size
• Interior vs exterior painting
• Wall and plaster condition
• Number of rooms
• Ceiling height
• Surface type
• Paint quality
• Access
• Detail work
• Preparation required

The best way to get an accurate price is to have your home inspected. That way, the quote can be based on the actual condition of your walls, ceilings, trims and exterior surfaces.

If you are planning to repaint your home, Alleviate Plaster & Paint can help you understand what is needed, what it will cost and how to get the best finish for your budget.

Contact Alleviate Plaster & Paint to request a house painting quote in Melbourne.

FAQs

How much does it cost to paint a 3 bedroom house in Melbourne?

As a rough guide, painting the interior of a 3 bedroom house in Melbourne may cost around $5,000 to $10,000+, depending on the condition of the walls, ceilings, trims and doors. Exterior painting or major preparation work will increase the cost.

How much does it cost to paint the exterior of a house in Melbourne?

Exterior painting in Melbourne can range from around $8,000 to $20,000+ for a single storey home and $15,000 to $30,000+ for a double storey home. Access, scaffolding, surface condition and paint system all affect the final price.

Why is house painting so expensive?

Most of the cost is labour and preparation. A quality paint job includes cleaning, sanding, filling, plaster repairs, priming, caulking, cutting in and multiple coats. The better the preparation, the better and longer-lasting the finish.

Do I need plaster repairs before painting?

If your walls have cracks, dents, water damage, uneven joins or old patch marks, plaster repairs may be needed before painting. Painting over damaged plaster can make defects more noticeable.

Is it cheaper to paint a house yourself?

DIY painting can be cheaper for small rooms, but a full house repaint takes time, tools and skill. If the surface needs repairs or you want a high-quality finish, hiring a professional painter is usually better value.

How long does it take to paint a house?

A standard interior repaint may take several days to a week, depending on the size and condition of the home. Exterior painting can take longer because of weather, access and drying times.

What is the best time of year to paint a house in Melbourne?

Interior painting can be done throughout the year. Exterior painting is best done when weather conditions are dry and mild. Melbourne’s weather can change quickly, so your painter will plan around suitable conditions.

Should I paint before selling my home?

In many cases, yes. Fresh paint can make a home feel cleaner, brighter and better maintained. If there are cracks or damaged plaster, repairing those areas before painting can also improve presentation.