How much does paving cost in Sydney?
Paving is priced by the stone you pick plus the labour to lay it. In Sydney the laying alone runs $75 to $140 per square metre, and the pavers on top of that range from budget concrete to premium sandstone. Expect $120 to $340 per square metre for most finished patios and paths.
What it costs
| Job | Typical Sydney range | What it covers |
|---|---|---|
| Paver laying (labour) | $75 to $140 per m2 | Excavate, base, sand, lay and joint |
| Travertine pavers (supply) | $45 to $90 per m2 | Popular pool surround stone |
| Concrete / stone pavers (supply) | $60 to $140 per m2 | Wide budget range |
| Natural sandstone pavers (supply) | $80 to $200 per m2 | Premium Sydney look, crazy paving included |
| Exposed-aggregate concrete | $80 to $120 per m2 | Supplied and poured, a paving alternative |
What affects the price
- Stone choice. Travertine and concrete sit at the bottom; natural sandstone and porcelain sit at the top.
- Cuts and pattern. Crazy paving, herringbone and lots of edge cuts add labour.
- Base. A patio over soft ground needs a deeper compacted base than one over an existing slab.
- Drainage and falls. Paving near the house must be laid to fall away, which can mean extra excavation.
Common questions
How much does paving cost per square metre in Sydney?
Laying is $75 to $140 per square metre and the pavers add $45 to $200 per square metre depending on the stone, so most finished Sydney paving is $120 to $340 per square metre.
What is the cheapest way to pave a backyard?
Exposed-aggregate concrete at $80 to $120 per square metre or budget concrete pavers are the most affordable hard surfaces. Natural sandstone is the premium end.
Do I need council approval to pave?
Small paths and patios are usually exempt, but large areas of new hard surface can affect stormwater and may need approval. A local landscaper will tell you what applies to your block.