If you’re reading this, chances are you’re dreaming about transforming your bathroom, pimping your powder room or adding an ensuite… with the BIG question hanging over your head:

“How much is this going to cost me?”

Let’s cut to the chase.

In 2026, a bathroom renovation in Australia can cost anywhere from $8,000 for a small cosmetic refresh right through to $35,000+ for a high-end, luxury bathroom - and sometimes a lot more if you’re going all out.

The truth is, bathroom renovations come with a huge range of price tags depending on size, scope, finishes and labour. But don’t worry because we’re breaking it all down so you can budget with confidence (and no nasty surprises).

The most recent industry data from the Housing Industry Association puts the average bathroom renovation cost in Australia at around $26,000, but actual projects can be lower or significantly higher depending on scope, materials and design choices.

BATHROOM RENOVATION COSTS IN 2026: HOW SIZE & SCOPE AFFECT YOUR BUDGET

First off, the size of your bathroom is a major player in determining the cost. Are we talking about a snug ensuite or a spacious family bathroom? Here’s a rough idea…

Hipages.com.au breaks down the cost of a bathroom renovation into three price brackets:

Budget cost: $8,000 - $15,000

Standard cost: $15,000 - $35,000

Premium cost: $35,000 +++

As a guideline, expect to spend in the region of:

$8,000 - $15,000 for a budget or cosmetic renovation of a smaller bathroom using budget materials and fittings.
$15,000 - $35,000 for an average-sized mid-range bathroom renovation using mid-range materials and fittings.
$35,000+ for a high-end, premium or luxury bathroom renovation using top-of-the-range materials and fittings.

WHAT IMPACTS BATHROOM RENOVATION COSTS? A FULL COST BREAKDOWN

Let’s break down where those dollars are headed:

BATHROOM TILE COSTS: HOW TILES IMPACT YOUR RENOVATION BUDGET

Tiles set the tone for your bathroom. Whether you’re into basic large-format porcelain tiles or more intricate marble features, your choice will impact the overall cost. The more layout patterns and cuts will also require more time from your tiler and in the reno game time equals money, honey!

BATHROOM FIXTURES & FITTINGS: HOW MUCH SHOULD YOU BUDGET?

Bathrooms are small spaces that require a large number of fittings and fixtures from a bath, shower screen, vanity, mirror, toilet, tapware… the list goes on! The style and quality of your fixtures can vary widely and this will affect your budget.

PLUMBING & ELECTRICAL COSTS IN A BATHROOM RENOVATION

Moving pipes and adding new lighting fixtures can add to the cost, but a well-lit, functional space is worth it!

LUXURY BATHROOM EXTRAS THAT INCREASE RENOVATION COSTS

If you’re after a luxurious bathroom, you might like to add these extras to your wishlist (and budget spreadsheet!): underfloor heating, heated towel rails, custom coloured tapware, custom joinery, designer lighting… The sky’s the limit but not without added cost!

BATHROOM RENOVATION LABOUR COSTS: BUILDERS & TRADES

Good tradies are like gold. We can’t stress enough the importance of finding the perfect Dream Team for your renovation and for a bathroom reno, there will be a lot of members on your team! You’ll most likely need a builder, plumber, electrician, tiler, waterproofer and painter. You can hire these trades yourself individually, or your builder could supply and manage them for you.

Labour costs can account for 40% - 50% of your total budget but we think that’s money well spent! Be sure to hire professionals who take pride in and certify their work.

DO YOU NEED COUNCIL APPROVAL FOR A BATHROOM RENOVATION IN AUSTRALIA?

If you’re only renovating a bathroom and no other rooms in the house, you may not need to obtain a permit from your local Council - but it’s better to be safe than sorry and it only takes a quick phone call to check!

If you’re simply replacing fixtures, like swapping out old taps, showerheads, or vanities re-tiling, painting or installing new fittings like shelves or mirrors, chances are you won’t need a permit. But if you’re making structural changes, like knocking down walls and adding windows, relocating plumbing works, adding electrical works and waterproofing your bathroom, you may find you do need permission.

In Australia, Council fees for building permits can range from $500-$1000 for a basic bathroom renovation, while more extensive renovation could run into the thousands.

BATHROOM RENOVATION BUDGET TIPS: WHY YOU NEED A CONTINGENCY FUND

No matter how small or big your renovation, we always recommend setting aside an extra 10% - 20% for those unexpected surprises. Trust us, they happen and you’ll be thankful for your contingency fund when they do!

IS A BATHROOM RENOVATION WORTH THE COST IN 2026?

There is no two ways about it, renovating a bathroom is a significant investment! But, it will add value to your home and enjoyment to your everyday routine, given it’s usually the first room you visit in the morning and the last you use at night.

From our experience in renovating over 50 bathrooms, we know there are SO many cost variables that the only way to accurately determine the cost for your bathroom is to get a detailed quote from a builder.

Three Birds Tips for a DREAM Bathroom TO FIT YOUR Budget

Knowledge is Power

You wouldn’t attempt a complex surgery without a medical degree so why start a renovation without any knowledge of the process? We'll teach you how to create your dream bathroom without the budget blowouts or the stress in our Bathroom Bootcamp. Brought to you by Three Birds Reno School, Bathroom Bootcamp is the ultimate online course for anyone wanting to learn the skills you need to design, plan and budget for your dream bathroom renovation in as little as 48 hours!

Mix Bougie with Budget

Champagne taste on a beer budget? That’s ok! There are many budget-friendly ways to get a luxe look without the hefty price tag. Even if your budget is teeny tiny. We share SO many of these in the articles on our blog and in Bathroom Bootcamp.

Shop Smarter With Dream Discounts For Your Dream Bathroom

You can cut hundreds (if not thousands!) off your bathroom reno budget with some savvy shopping. Sometimes your bathroom renovation timeline doesn’t align with the sales but with the Three Birds Dream Discount Card, you can save every day on every purchase for your home. Check out the savings you could make on tiles, fixtures and fittings for your bathroom renovation!