WHAT'S THE COST OF A SWIMMING POOL IN AUSTRALIA IN 2025?
You can almost feel it now... the sun on your skin, the cool water lapping around you, the sound of kids laughing (or the sweet serenity of having it all to yourself). A pool is the ultimate Aussie backyard upgrade, giving you a water view, even if you live nowhere near the ocean and turning hot summer days into mini holidays without leaving home.
But before you start ordering those aesthetic inflatable rings and planning your first pool party, let’s talk about the not-so-glam part - how much it actually costs to put in a pool in Australia.
Well, here’s the splash of reality:
LET’S START WITH A WATCH-OUT ON SWIMMING POOL PRICES
We don't want to drown your dreams before you even start planning, but it pays to be prepared! When you get that first pool quote, nine times out of ten it’s literally just the shell. That sparkling body of water you’re imagining is only part of the story. All the dreamy extras, like fancy waterline tiles, glass pool fencing, paving, heating, and lush landscaping, can add tens of thousands to your total budget. Plus, initial quotes often exclude hidden install costs, such as an estimate for excavation, which can often blow out and lead to a much higher final price than expected.
In many cases, once you include the full pool project (excavation, surrounds, fencing, and landscaping), the final price can be almost double the base pool cost.
HERE’S WHAT WE’LL COVER:
THE AVERAGE IN-GROUND POOL COST IN AUSTRALIA
Our most current industry knowledge shows that the average cost to install an in-ground pool in Australia in 2025 now sits between $60,000 and $80,000. Rising material and labour costs (hello, concrete, steel, and tradie wages!) have pushed prices up around 25–50% in recent years, but the final figure depends heavily on the type of swimming pool, its size, site conditions, and any extras you choose. While you can still find smaller fibreglass plunge pools from around $35,000–$45,000 in some regions, that’s the exception, not the rule. For most families in metro areas, a realistic budget starts at $60k+.
POOL TYPES: WHAT ARE YOUR OPTIONS?
When it comes to building a swimming pool, the first big decision is choosing the right pool type and materials for your backyard and lifestyle. The three most popular options in Australia are concrete and fibreglass pools - each with its own unique benefits and considerations.
Concrete pools are the go-to choice for those who want complete design freedom. You can customise the shape, depth, and size to fit any space or vision, making them perfect for tricky sites or statement pools. However, this flexibility comes at a price: concrete pools generally have higher initial costs and require more ongoing maintenance to keep the concrete surfaces looking their best.
That said, many people are opting for pre-fabricated concrete plunge pools, which are dropped in, much like fibreglass pools. These can't be customised, like a concrete pool that's poured on-site, but offer the look of concrete for those who want it at a cheaper price point.
Fibreglass pools are a favourite for their durability, smooth gelcoat surface, and low maintenance needs. These pools come in a range of pre-moulded shapes and sizes, making installation quicker and often more affordable than concrete. Innovations like Compass fibreglass ceramic pools offer even greater strength and longevity, making them a smart choice for many families looking for a new swimming pool that’s easy to care for.
Ultimately, your choice of pool type, whether it’s a concrete or fibreglass pool, will impact not just the initial price but also the maintenance, longevity, and overall enjoyment of your new swimming pool. Consider your budget, desired pool size, and ongoing maintenance costs before making your decision.
Cali Cool concrete pool
The fibreglass pool at Lana’s Forever Home
HOW MUCH DOES A NEW SWIMMING POOL COST?
Are you thinking of a petite plunge pool or a full-length lap pool? A fibreglass pool or a fully customised concrete pool? There is a wide variety of pools sold in Australia, each with its own associated costs.
Here’s a guide to what you’ll get for your splash of cash (remember, this is for the pool only and doesn’t include surrounds like fences or landscaping):
Budget: $30,000–$45,000
Entry-level fibreglass or above-ground pools with standard finishes and basic filtration. More common in regional areas or very compact sites.Standard: $45,000–$70,000
Mid-sized fibreglass or concrete pools covering an “average backyard” brief, with paving, fencing, and upgraded filtration.Premium: $70,000+
Fully customised concrete pools with luxe features like heating, spas, or architectural landscaping. High-end designs like infinity pools easily push into six figures.
When considering concrete pools, note that concrete pools start at similar price points to fibreglass pools but can increase significantly with custom features and design options.
WHERE DOES YOUR POOL BUDGET GO?
The Shell
Whether you choose fibreglass or concrete, the shell is typically supplied by a manufacturer or builder, and it’s your biggest upfront cost. The manufacturer’s pool shell technology can significantly impact both the cost and quality, with innovations like fibreglass ceramic layers offering enhanced durability and performance. Fibreglass pool manufacturers usually provide a range of shell options, each with different features, warranties, and installation timelines. Concrete pools are generally more expensive but give you endless design freedom when it comes to size, shape, and finish.
Popular Interior Finishes For Concrete Pools:
Pebblecrete incorporates small pebbles or stones into the plaster, creating a textured, slip-resistant surface. Pebblecrete offers a natural, organic look and is known for its durability.
Tiles offers an almost limitless range of design possibilities, with options including ceramic, porcelain, glass, and stone. It’s durable, easy to clean, and can be highly customised to suit your style.
Glass bead finishes create a sparkling, iridescent effect in the water. They’re smooth underfoot, resistant to staining, and can be mixed with other aggregates for unique colour and texture combinations.
💡 Tip: The interior finish you choose not only affects the look and feel of your pool but also impacts maintenance, lifespan, and cost - so factor all three into your decision.
Three Birds House 10 pool lined with pebblecrete
Three Birds House 17 pool with tiled swim-out and surrounds
Three Birds House 13 pool lined in glass bead
Excavation, Site Preparation & Pool Installation
Flat blocks are cheaper. Sloping or rocky sites can add thousands for rock removal, retaining walls, or tight access excavation.
If you like the sound of a fibreglass pool or a pre-fabricated concrete plunge pool, don't forget the costs associated with getting the pool off the truck and into position, which usually requires a crane, and sometimes a very large and expensive one!
Filtration & Plumbing
Every pool needs a pump, filter, and plumbing. Modern pools may include advanced operating systems, such as integrated filtration, circulation, and cleaning features. Popular choices include saltwater, chlorine, and mineral systems. High-quality operating systems can be a key benefit, reducing maintenance and improving water quality. For cleaning, robotic cleaners are the most popular option. If you're feeling fancy, in-floor cleaning systems are a hassle-free way to keep your pool looking pristine every day without thinking about it.
Heating & Covers
Heating can extend your swimming season but comes with extra upfront costs. Solar, gas, or heat pumps - choose based on your climate and usage (speak to your pool company for recommendations based on your location). Heat pumps are a popular and efficient choice for many pool owners.
In some states, including New South Wales, a compliant pool cover is a BASIX requirement for new pools to help reduce evaporation and improve energy efficiency, so be sure to factor this into your budget and design plans from the start. Even if it’s not mandatory where you live, a good-quality pool cover can save you money on heating, cleaning, and water top-ups over time.
Pool Fencing
It’s a legal must-have in Australia and, depending on the look of it, can be a decent chunk of your budget. Glass fencing is a popular choice for its sleek, unobtrusive look that lets your pool be the star of the show, but it does come with a higher price tag and extra cleaning to keep it crystal clear. Traditional aluminium fencing is the most budget-friendly option - it's functional, durable, and available in a range of powder-coated colours, while custom steel designs are the ultimate splurge, offering a bespoke look that can double as a design feature in your outdoor space.
| Fencing Type | Approx. Cost (per metre) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminium | $200 – $350 | Most budget-friendly, durable, low maintenance, variety of colours | Not as luxe, more visually obtrusive |
| Glass (frameless) | $450 – $650 | Sleek, modern, unobtrusive view of the pool | Higher cost, frequent cleaning to remove water spots |
| Custom Steel | $600 – $900+ | Bespoke designs, high-end aesthetic, can become a feature piece | Most expensive, longer lead times, requires ongoing maintenance |
💡 Tip: Mixing materials — like aluminium for less-visible sides and glass for the main poolside view — can save thousands without compromising style.
Surrounds & Landscaping
Paving, decking, lighting, and plants all finish the look of your pool area, and can make just as big an impact as the pool itself. Landscaping costs are a bit like asking “how long is a piece of string?” They can vary by tens of thousands depending on factors like the size of your outdoor space, the depth and style of garden beds, the type and maturity of plants, and whether you’re adding extras like a pool house, pergola, or outdoor kitchen.
💡 Tip: If your budget’s tight, invest in the hardscaping (paving, decking, retaining walls) first, and you can always add more plants and features over time.
Hedging beside the pool at House 17 ‘Cali Cool’
Erin’s established gardens around the pool at House 16
Luxury Extras
Built-in spas, swim-up bars, fancy water features, and in-floor cleaning systems - these luxury extras can take your pool from “nice” to next-level. Not only do they enhance your enjoyment (hello, instant holiday vibes), but they can also add serious value to your property. Just keep in mind, each dreamy extra comes with its own price tag and ongoing maintenance, so it’s worth prioritising the features you’ll actually use and love.
WHO YOU'LL NEED ON YOUR TRADIE TEAM
Installing a pool in Australia is a multi-tradie project. For that reason, many people go straight to a pool company that can coordinate everything you need - from design and pool installation to organising trades to get it hooked up and running, and even testing the water before your first swim. You can choose to coordinate this yourself but, if you're not experienced in construction project management, it can be an overwhelming task.
This dream team might include:
Licensed pool builder (essential for ensuring your pool is installed safely and meets all regulations)
Pool builder/installer
Excavator operator
Electrician
Plumber
Landscaper
Pool fencing contractor
Choosing a licensed pool builder is crucial, as they bring expertise and help avoid costly mistakes or safety issues. Professionally installed fibreglass pools offer greater safety, reliability, and value compared to DIY options.
Labour often accounts for 40–50% of your total cost but it's worth every dollar for safety, compliance, and longevity.
POOL PERMITS & SAFETY COMPLIANCE IN AUSTRALIA
Every swimming pool in Australia must meet strict safety standards. This means you’ll need:
Building permits (usually $500–$2,000+)
Fencing certification, including a compliant CPR sign (mandatory in all states and territories)
Inspections to ensure compliance with Australian Standards AS1926
Rules vary between states, so always check your local Council’s website.
ONGOING POOL MAINTENANCE & COSTS
Owning a swimming pool is all about fun and relaxation but it’s important to budget for the ongoing costs that come with keeping your pool sparkling and safe. The type of pool you choose will play a big role in how much time and money you’ll spend on maintenance.
Concrete pools are known for their strength and customisability, but their porous concrete pool surfaces can attract algae and require more frequent cleaning and chemical balancing. Regular brushing the concrete floor and sides and attention to correct chlorine levels are a must to keep your concrete pool looking its best.
Fibreglass pools are a low-maintenance dream thanks to their smooth gelcoat surface, which helps prevent algae and bacteria from taking hold. This means less scrubbing, fewer chemicals, and more time enjoying your pool. Many homeowners find that fibreglass pools minimise ongoing costs compared to other pool types.
Other factors that affect ongoing costs include pool size (bigger pools need more chemicals and energy), the type of filtration and cleaning equipment you choose (robotic cleaners can save time but cost more upfront), and whether you opt for extras like pool heating or hands-free pool care systems.
By understanding the ongoing costs associated with your chosen pool type, you can plan and keep your swimming pool in top condition for years to come.
DON'T FORGET A BUDGET BUFFER!
Just like with any renovation, set aside an extra 10–20% for surprises - anything from unexpected excavation costs to upgrading to a quieter pump. It sounds like a lot - but chances are you'll need it!
REAL LIFE RENO: A CONCRETE POOL IN BRISBANE
When Reno Schooler, Amy, moved from a newly renovated house in Sydney to sunny Queensland, the first priority in renovating her new home was to install a pool - crucial for the climate. Having installed a self-cleaning fibreglass pool in Sydney, she was keen to do it again. Her family loved the soft feel underfoot for little feet, the ease of installation, and she loved nothing more than looking out from the kitchen to a sparkling clean pool, thanks to the in-floor cleaning system.
But a $17,000 quote for a crane to lift a fibreglass pool over her Queenslander house, on a narrow side street that would have to be closed by Council for the duration of the lift (multiple powerlines didn’t help the estimate!), quickly put an end to her fibreglass pool dreams.
When a concrete pool became the only option, she set about designing it to maximise the space available (previously an unused courtyard for the washing line):
Size: 7.6m x 3.3m in-ground concrete
Depth: Shallow end – 1.2m / Deep end – 1.8m
Seating bench: 3.3m x 1m
Interior lining: Premium grade 1–2mm white pebble finish
Waterline tiles: Coconut Ice Glass Mosaics from The Pool Tile Company
Lighting: Multi-coloured underwater pool lights
Filtration: MagnaPool® magnesium mineral pool system
Cleaner: Dolphin M400 robotic cleaner
Paving: Marble pavers from Amber (discontinued)
Heating: Electric heat pump
Fencing: Two sides PVC privacy fence, two sides weatherboard house exterior with white powder-coated aluminium gates
And here’s what the quote looked like:
Actual Quote - Brisbane, 2022
This wasn’t Amy’s first reno rodeo, and while she used a pool company to supply and manage the trades (except for the electrician, which she was required to provide), she was living on site and able to manage the project. Even so, the project blew out to a little over $10k more than the original quote - thank goodness for the contingency budget, which came to the rescue (and was spent in its entirety).
What blew the budget? The excavation came in at more than double the provisional allowance. The quote hadn’t included the cost of dumping clean fill, which added extra trips to the tip and additional tip fees. The allowances for the waterline tiling and paving products were also only estimates, and Amy couldn’t source any that aligned with her vision while still falling within the allocated budget.
💡 Brisbane spotlight: the River City is actually one of the cheaper east-coast capitals for pools, but even there, expect to spend $60k–$80k for a basic new pool project in 2025.
A QUICK REALITY CHECK
So, if you’ve had a pool quote sitting in your top drawer from 2022, brace yourself: the same pool today could cost you an extra $15,000-$25,000. Prices have been climbing steadily with no signs of dropping, so it pays to plan a buffer into your budget and get multiple quotes before you dive in.
WILL A POOL ADD VALUE TO YOUR PROPERTY?
Installing a pool in Australia is a major investment, but it can transform your lifestyle and add value to your property.
Whether you’re dreaming of a compact plunge pool or a sprawling resort-style oasis, the only way to get an accurate price for your home is to get detailed quotes. If you’re ready to start the process of designing your own pool, Three Birds Reno School is here to guide you every step of the way. And don’t start without your Three Birds Dream Discount Card - we’ve got discounts on everything that could save you thousands, from pools to tiles and everything you’ll need to style your new pool area.
