Planning a laundry renovation in Melbourne? Whether you’re upgrading a cramped space or building a brand-new laundry from scratch, understanding the real costs involved is essential for budgeting effectively. In this comprehensive guide, we break down every expense you can expect in 2026 — from basic refreshes to premium European-style laundries — so you can plan with confidence and avoid costly surprises.
At Your Story Property, we’ve completed hundreds of laundry renovations across Melbourne’s inner suburbs. We know exactly what drives costs up and where you can save without sacrificing quality. Let’s dive into the real numbers.
Quick Comparison: Laundry Renovation Cost by Scope
| Renovation Scope | Typical Size | Cost Range (AUD) | Timeframe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Refresh | 2–4 m² | $5,000 – $10,000 | 3–5 days | Cosmetic updates, paint, new tapware |
| Mid-Range Renovation | 4–6 m² | $10,000 – $20,000 | 1–2 weeks | New cabinetry, tiling, appliance upgrades |
| Premium Renovation | 6–10 m² | $20,000 – $35,000 | 2–4 weeks | Full redesign, custom joinery, stone benchtops |
| European/Walk-In Laundry | 8–15 m² | $30,000 – $55,000+ | 3–6 weeks | Complete build-out, plumbing relocation, luxury finishes |
Note: These prices reflect Melbourne metro rates as of early 2026 and include GST. Regional Victorian costs may be 10–15% lower. For a personalised quote, book a free consultation with our team.
What Influences Laundry Renovation Costs in Melbourne?
No two laundry renovations cost the same. Several key factors determine where your project lands on the pricing spectrum. Understanding these helps you make informed decisions about where to invest and where to save.
Room Size and Layout Changes
The single biggest cost driver is the size of your laundry and whether you’re changing its layout. A simple like-for-like renovation within the existing footprint is far cheaper than relocating plumbing, knocking down walls, or expanding into adjacent spaces. If you’re converting a hallway cupboard into a European-style laundry, expect structural work to add $3,000–$8,000 to your budget.
Melbourne’s older homes — particularly Victorian and Edwardian properties in suburbs like Hawthorn, Kew, and Richmond — often have laundries tacked onto the back of the house or squeezed under staircases. Modernising these spaces usually requires some layout reconfiguration.
Plumbing and Electrical Work
Plumbing is typically the second-largest expense in a laundry renovation. Moving water supply lines, waste pipes, or adding new connections for a second sink or additional appliances can cost $2,000–$6,000 depending on complexity. Electrical upgrades for modern appliances (heat-pump dryers, smart washing machines) typically run $800–$2,500.
Cabinetry and Storage Solutions
Quality cabinetry transforms a laundry from a utilitarian space into an organised, functional room. Options range from flat-pack solutions ($1,500–$3,000) to semi-custom ($3,000–$7,000) and fully custom joinery ($7,000–$15,000+). Consider overhead cabinets, pull-out hampers, ironing board cupboards, and cleaning supply organisers. Our laundry renovation service includes design consultation to maximise every centimetre.
Benchtops and Splashbacks
Your benchtop choice significantly impacts both aesthetics and budget:
| Material | Cost per m² | Durability | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laminate | $200 – $500 | Good (10–15 years) | Low |
| Engineered Stone | $400 – $900 | Excellent (20+ years) | Very Low |
| Natural Stone (Marble/Granite) | $600 – $1,200 | Excellent (lifetime) | Medium (sealing required) |
| Solid Timber | $500 – $1,000 | Good (with care) | High (oiling required) |
Flooring
Laundry flooring must be waterproof and slip-resistant. Popular options include porcelain tiles ($50–$120/m²), vinyl plank ($30–$80/m²), and polished concrete ($60–$100/m²). The choice often depends on what’s used in adjacent rooms for a seamless flow — particularly important in open-plan Melbourne homes.
Appliances
While not strictly a renovation cost, most homeowners upgrade appliances during a laundry renovation. Budget $2,000–$6,000 for a quality washer-dryer pair. Heat-pump dryers, while pricier upfront ($1,200–$2,500), save significantly on energy bills and are increasingly popular in Melbourne’s sustainability-conscious market.
Detailed Cost Breakdown by Component
| Component | Budget Range | Mid-Range | Premium Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Demolition & Removal | $500 – $1,000 | $1,000 – $2,000 | $2,000 – $3,500 |
| Plumbing | $800 – $2,000 | $2,000 – $4,000 | $4,000 – $6,000 |
| Electrical | $500 – $1,000 | $1,000 – $2,000 | $2,000 – $3,500 |
| Cabinetry & Joinery | $1,500 – $3,000 | $3,000 – $7,000 | $7,000 – $15,000 |
| Benchtop | $400 – $800 | $800 – $2,000 | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| Tiling (Floor & Splashback) | $800 – $1,500 | $1,500 – $3,500 | $3,500 – $6,000 |
| Sink & Tapware | $300 – $600 | $600 – $1,200 | $1,200 – $2,500 |
| Painting & Finishing | $300 – $600 | $600 – $1,200 | $1,200 – $2,000 |
| Total Estimated | $5,100 – $10,500 | $10,500 – $22,900 | $22,900 – $42,500 |
Popular Laundry Styles in Melbourne for 2026
The European Laundry
Melbourne’s love affair with European laundries shows no signs of slowing. These compact, beautifully concealed laundries fit behind bifold or sliding doors within a hallway or kitchen run. Perfect for apartments and smaller homes, they typically cost $12,000–$25,000 fully installed. The key is smart vertical storage and quality joinery that hides everything when doors are closed.
The Walk-In Laundry
For larger homes in suburbs like Balwyn and Northcote, walk-in laundries with dedicated folding areas, hanging rails, and even a utility sink are increasingly popular. Budget $20,000–$40,000 for a well-appointed walk-in laundry.
The Combined Bathroom-Laundry
In many Melbourne homes, combining the laundry with the bathroom makes practical and financial sense. This approach saves on plumbing costs by sharing water connections. A combined bathroom-laundry renovation typically costs $25,000–$45,000 — often less than renovating both rooms separately. Read our bathroom renovation cost guide for more pricing detail.
How to Save Money on Your Laundry Renovation
Keep Plumbing Where It Is
The most effective way to reduce costs is keeping your sink, washer, and dryer connections in their current positions. Moving plumbing can add $3,000–$6,000 to your budget with minimal visual benefit.
Choose Laminate Over Stone
Modern laminate benchtops look remarkably similar to engineered stone at a fraction of the price. In a laundry — where benchtops take less punishment than kitchens — laminate is an excellent value choice.
Semi-Custom Cabinetry
Semi-custom cabinetry offers 80% of the look of fully custom joinery at 50% of the cost. Many Melbourne cabinet makers offer semi-custom options with a range of door styles, colours, and configurations.
Time Your Renovation Wisely
Melbourne’s renovation industry tends to be quieter from May to August. Booking during this period can save 5–10% as tradespeople offer competitive rates to maintain workflow. If you’re also planning a kitchen renovation, bundling both projects with one contractor often yields better pricing.
Do You Need a Permit for a Laundry Renovation in Melbourne?
In most cases, a simple laundry renovation does not require a building permit in Victoria. However, you will need one if your renovation involves:
- Structural changes (removing or modifying load-bearing walls)
- Changing the building’s footprint (extensions or additions)
- Significant plumbing relocation
- Work valued over $16,000 that involves structural changes
All plumbing and electrical work must be completed by licensed tradespeople regardless of permit requirements. For more on renovation permits in Victoria, see our guide on kitchen renovation permits — the same principles apply to laundries.
The Laundry Renovation Process: What to Expect
Understanding the renovation process helps you plan around disruption and set realistic expectations:
- Design Consultation (Week 1): We visit your home, measure the space, discuss your needs, and present initial concepts.
- Detailed Design & Quote (Week 2–3): Full 3D renders, material selections, and itemised quote.
- Material Selection & Ordering (Week 3–5): Choose tiles, cabinetry, tapware, and fittings.
- Demolition (Day 1–2): Strip out existing fixtures, prepare the space.
- Rough-In (Day 3–5): Plumbing and electrical rough-in work.
- Waterproofing & Tiling (Day 5–8): Waterproof membrane application and tiling.
- Cabinetry Installation (Day 8–10): Install cabinetry, benchtops, and shelving.
- Final Fit-Off (Day 10–12): Connect tapware, appliances, power points, and lighting.
- Quality Check & Handover: Final inspection and walkthrough with you.
Most mid-range laundry renovations are completed within 2–3 weeks. Learn more about our working process or book a free consultation to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a basic laundry renovation cost in Melbourne?
A basic laundry refresh in Melbourne typically costs between $5,000 and $10,000. This covers cosmetic updates like new paint, updated tapware, replacement of the laundry tub, and minor cabinetry modifications. It does not include structural changes or full re-tiling.
Is it cheaper to renovate a laundry or bathroom?
Laundry renovations are generally 30–50% cheaper than bathroom renovations of the same scope. This is because laundries have fewer waterproofing requirements, simpler plumbing, and less tiling. A mid-range laundry runs $10,000–$20,000 versus $15,000–$35,000 for a similar bathroom.
How long does a laundry renovation take?
Most laundry renovations take 1–4 weeks depending on scope. A basic refresh can be done in 3–5 days, while a full premium renovation with custom joinery and layout changes takes 3–6 weeks. See our renovation timeline guide for detailed breakdowns.
Can I combine my laundry and bathroom renovation to save money?
Yes, and it’s one of the smartest ways to save. Combining both projects with one contractor reduces mobilisation costs, shares plumbing rough-in work, and often saves 15–20% compared to doing them separately. Many Melbourne homeowners are opting for combined bathroom-laundry spaces, especially in units and smaller homes.
What is the most cost-effective laundry layout?
A galley (linear) layout is the most cost-effective because it keeps all plumbing along one wall, minimises pipe runs, and requires less cabinetry than L-shaped or U-shaped layouts. For small spaces under 4m², a European laundry concealed behind bifold doors is the most space-efficient option.
Do I need waterproofing in my laundry?
Under the Australian Building Code (NCC), waterproofing is required in any area where water may be present on the floor. In a laundry, this typically means the floor area immediately around the washing machine, tub, and any shower if it’s a combined space. The waterproofing membrane must be applied by a licensed waterproofer and carries a minimum 7-year guarantee in Victoria.
Ready to Transform Your Laundry?
Your laundry deserves to be more than just a forgotten utility room. With thoughtful design and quality finishes, it can become one of the most functional and enjoyable spaces in your home. At Your Story Property, we specialise in creating beautiful, practical laundry spaces that Melbourne homeowners love.
Book your free consultation today and let’s discuss how we can transform your laundry within your budget. View our completed projects for inspiration, or contact us with any questions.