Concrete
Concrete Driveway Cost Calculator
Estimate your driveway cost by area and finish, from plain to exposed aggregate.
Cost figures are typical Australian prices as at July 2026 and are a guide only. Site conditions change prices, so get local quotes before budgeting.
How this calculator works
Enter your driveway area, or a length and width and the calculator works out the area for you. Pick a finish and the calculator multiplies your area by a typical Australian rate for that finish, supply and lay included.
The rates come from published contractor pricing as at July 2026: plain grey at $65 to $90 per square metre, coloured at $75 to $100, exposed aggregate at $100 to $150 and stamped or stencilled at $120 to $160.
The calculator also shows how much concrete the slab needs at your chosen thickness, with 10 percent waste included, so you can sanity check quotes or price a DIY pour with the concrete calculator.
| Finish | Typical rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Plain grey | $65 to $90 per m² | The budget option, still very durable |
| Coloured | $75 to $100 per m² | Oxide through the mix or dry shake topping |
| Exposed aggregate | $100 to $150 per m² | Decorative stone finish, very popular |
| Stamped or stencilled | $120 to $160 per m² | Patterned to mimic pavers or stone |
Supply and lay on a prepared base. Excavation, removal of an old driveway, steep sites and tight access cost extra.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a concrete driveway cost in Australia?
Most single driveways land between $2,500 and $10,000 depending on size and finish. As a rate per square metre, expect $65 to $90 for plain grey, $75 to $100 for coloured, $100 to $150 for exposed aggregate and $120 to $160 for stamped finishes as at July 2026.
What thickness should a driveway slab be?
For cars, 100mm to 125mm with reinforcing mesh is standard. If trucks, vans or caravans will use the driveway, go to 150mm or more. Thickness matters more than surface finish for long term durability.
Is exposed aggregate worth the extra cost?
Exposed aggregate costs roughly 50 percent more than plain grey but adds kerb appeal, hides dirt well and gives better grip on slopes. It is the most requested decorative finish for Australian driveways.
What adds cost to a driveway job?
Excavation and site prep, removing an old driveway, steep or sloping blocks, tight access that stops trucks getting close, extra reinforcement for heavy vehicles and council crossover requirements can all add meaningful cost. Ask for itemised quotes so you can compare like with like.
How long before I can drive on new concrete?
Keep cars off for at least 7 days. Concrete keeps gaining strength for around 28 days, so keep heavy vehicles off for a month if you can.
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