Planning to give your home a fresh coat of paint? Interior painting is one of the most effective ways to update the look and feel of your space. Whether you’re getting ready to sell or simply want a change, understanding the real cost of interior painting in Melbourne can help you plan your project smartly and avoid surprises.
In this 2025 cost guide, we’ll break down what Melbourne homeowners typically pay for interior painting, what factors affect the price, and how you can budget wisely—whether you’re tackling one room or the entire house.
What You’ll Learn
In this guide, you’ll discover:
- How much interior painting usually costs in Melbourne
- Common price ranges per room or square metre
- What influences painting costs (beyond just paint)
- Whether DIY or hiring a pro makes more sense for your situation
- Cost-saving tips to get the most from your budget
Let’s take a look at the numbers and details so you can plan with confidence.
Average Interior Painting Costs in Melbourne (2025)
Per Square Metre Estimates
On average, interior painting in Melbourne costs between $20 and $45 per square metre, depending on the level of prep work, finish quality, and whether ceilings, trims, and doors are included.
Typical Room and Home Prices
| Painting Area | Estimated Cost (2025) |
|---|---|
| Small bedroom (10 m²) | $300 – $700 |
| Medium bedroom (15–20 m²) | $700 – $1,500 |
| Large living room | $1,200 – $2,500 |
| Full 2-bedroom unit | $3,500 – $5,500 |
| 3-bedroom house (interior only) | $4,500 – $6,500 |
| 4-bedroom house (interior only) | $6,000 – $9,000 |
These estimates typically include two coats of quality paint, basic wall prep, and labour.
What Affects Interior House Painting Costs?
Size of the Project
Larger rooms and more total surface area naturally cost more. Open-plan spaces, high ceilings, and complex layouts can also increase the price.
Surface Preparation
Walls with cracks, peeling paint, stains, or damage will need extra prep before painting. This can include patching, sanding, filling, or priming—all of which add time and cost.
Type and Quality of Paint
Premium paints offer better coverage and durability, but they also cost more. Low-VOC or specialty paints (like mould-resistant options for bathrooms) can affect the final price.
Number of Colours and Finishes
A single colour throughout the home is more efficient and cost-effective. If you’re using multiple colours, feature walls, or gloss finishes, it can increase labour time and complexity.
Painting Ceilings, Doors, and Trims
Including ceilings, skirting boards, doors, and window frames in your project can raise costs. However, bundling these together is often more efficient than painting them separately later.
Accessibility
Hard-to-reach areas—like staircases, loft ceilings, or tight corners—can require special equipment or extra care, which will increase labour charges.
Interior Painting Costs by Room Type
Bedrooms
Small bedrooms cost between $300 and $700, while larger rooms range up to $1,500, depending on wall height and prep work.
Living and Dining Rooms
These often involve more detail work (like trims, cornices, and large windows) and range from $1,200 to $2,500+.
Kitchens and Bathrooms
Though smaller, these spaces often need moisture-resistant paints and more intricate cutting around tiles or cabinetry. Expect $400 to $1,000 per room.
Hallways and Entryways
These high-traffic areas see wear and tear and may need more durable paint. Prices range from $700 to $1,500, depending on size and wall condition.
DIY vs Professional Interior Painting
When DIY Might Make Sense
- You’re confident with tools and techniques
- The project is small (like one room)
- You have time to prep and paint properly
- Your budget is tight
DIY painting can save on labour costs, but keep in mind that mistakes or poor prep can lead to peeling paint, uneven finishes, or the need to repaint sooner.
When It’s Best to Hire a Pro
- You’re painting an entire home
- The walls need repairs or careful prep
- You want a flawless, long-lasting finish
- Your ceilings are high or difficult to reach
Professional painters bring experience, the right tools, and efficiency—plus they can help you choose finishes, colours, and ensure everything complies with safety standards.
How to Keep Painting Costs Down
1. Bundle Rooms Together
Painting multiple rooms at once reduces setup and clean-up time, making it more efficient for painters—and often cheaper overall.
2. Move Furniture Yourself
Preparing your home by moving furniture and covering surfaces can save painters time, which can reduce labour charges.
3. Choose Colours Strategically
Using one or two complementary colours throughout your home can speed up the job and save on paint costs.
4. Do Light Prep Work
Filling small holes, cleaning walls, and removing minor scuff marks yourself can reduce the amount of prep your painter needs to do.
5. Time It Right
Painting in the off-season (winter or colder months) can sometimes help you negotiate better rates, as demand is lower.
What to Expect from a Painting Quote
A professional quote should include:
- Area to be painted (in square metres or per room)
- Type of paint and finish
- Number of coats
- Prep work required
- Whether ceilings, doors, trims are included
- Labour costs and estimated time frame
- Cleanup and disposal
Getting 2–3 quotes is a smart move to compare services and make sure everything is covered.
FAQ: Interior Painting Costs in Melbourne
Interior house painting is one of the most impactful ways to refresh your home—and in Melbourne, it’s a smart investment. While costs vary based on size, prep, and quality, knowing what to expect can help you budget and plan with confidence.
Whether you’re considering a single room or a full-home transformation, take a moment to reflect on what’s most important to you: time, finish, or value. If you feel ready to explore the options, the Chumz Painting team is always here to help you think it through—no pressure, just good advice when you need it.