How Much Does a Front Fence Cost in Melbourne (2025 Guide)
- Luu Vinh
- 12 minutes ago
- 6 min read
If you’re planning to build a new front fence in Melbourne, you’ve probably noticed prices can vary. Sometimes, even between neighbours on the same street, there is a big difference. In 2025, materials, designs, and labour demand continue to shape the front fence cost Melbourne. Understanding the cost factors up-front helps you budget with confidence.
At Latitude Fencing & Gate, we help homeowners navigate all these variables. Because we design, manufacture, and install our fences and gates in-house, we can tailor solutions to suit your property, budget, and suburb-specific requirements.
And while we can provide guidance, this guide is for general information only; always double-check with your installers and local council before building.
Average Front Fence Cost Melbourne (2025 Pricing)
There are the baseline costs for different materials and the typical installation. However, Melbourne's fencing market is diverse. 2025 pricing reflects material quality, labour demand, and the push for modern, low-maintenance designs.
Here’s what Melbourne homeowners can expect to pay this year.
Price Ranges by Material
Different materials have different strengths, maintenance levels, and aesthetic appeal, and those differences directly influence price.
Timber remains one of Melbourne’s most popular front-fence options thanks to its natural look and versatility.
Typical cost: $220–$450 per metre
Premium hardwoods like spotted gum sit at the higher end, while treated pine pickets are more budget-friendly. Building styles in inner suburbs often call for custom-shaped pickets or heritage patterns, which can increase the total.
Colorbond is a durable, low-maintenance choice, especially for homeowners prioritising privacy.
Typical cost: $180–$320 per metre
Front-fence Colorbond prices tend to be slightly higher than side or rear boundaries due to taller panels, decorative steel frames, or integrated gates.
Modern, sleek, and highly customisable, aluminium slat fencing suits contemporary homes throughout Melbourne.
Typical cost: $300–$650 per metre
Orientation (vertical vs horizontal), slat spacing, and powder-coat colours all influence final pricing.
Tubular steel, including wrought iron styles, is popular for period homes and properties prioritising security and visibility.
Typical cost: $280–$700 per metre
More intricate patterns or custom decorative tops can raise costs.
Brick or Masonry Fences
Brick piers with infills or full masonry walls are among the highest-value options.
Typical cost: $1,000–$2,500 per metre
Higher material and labour requirements, especially in heritage suburbs, explain the substantial investment.
PVC offers the look of painted timber without the ongoing maintenance.
Typical cost: $250–$450 per metre
White is most common, but modern greys are gaining popularity. PVC’s longevity makes it appealing to homeowners looking for set-and-forget fencing.
Typical Installation Costs
Material costs are only one part of the picture. Installation, access challenges, and preparation work can significantly affect the final front fence cost Melbourne.
Labour Rates
In Melbourne, fencing labour generally costs $70–$110 per hour or is quoted on a per-metre rate for standard installations.
Removal of Old Fencing
If an existing front fence needs to be removed, expect an additional charge of $40–$90 per metre, depending on the material and disposal fees.
Additional Charges for Sloping Driveways or Tight Access
Steep gradients, retaining requirements, garden obstacles, or limited access can increase labour time. Most homeowners pay an extra 10–20% for challenging sites.
Key Factors That Influence Front Fence Costs
While material type is the biggest driver of cost, several other factors can change your final front fence cost Melbourne. Knowing these helps you avoid surprises and choose the most value-driven option for your home.
Fence Height and Length
Fence height is one of the quickest ways to increase material and labour costs.
A 1.2m timber picket fence might sit around $230 per metre, but the same design at 1.5m or 1.8m will cost noticeably more.
And of course, longer frontages, common in Melbourne’s west and outer suburbs, increase total metreage.
Material Quality and Construction Method
Thicker steel, premium hardwoods, custom powder-coat finishes, or reinforced posts add to durability and appearance, but they also raise the final cost.
In 2025, many Melbourne homeowners are choosing higher-grade materials to reduce long-term maintenance.
Gate Add-Ons and Automation
Front fences often include gates, which can significantly shift the budget.
Pedestrian Gate
Expect $350–$950, depending on material and hardware.
Driveway Gate Extensions
Driveway gates vary widely: Manual sliding or swing gates: $1,400–$4,500; Custom architectural gates: $4,000–$10,000+
Automation Motors (Sliding or Swing)
Gate automation adds convenience and security. Typical cost: $1,100–$2,500 including motor, safety sensors, and installation.
Custom Designs vs Standard Panels
Customisation is where Melbourne’s design preferences really influence cost.
Decorative Screens
Laser-cut or architectural screens can add: $250–$800 per panel, depending on thickness and pattern.
Custom Fabrication by Latitude
Latitude Fencing & Gate specialises in bespoke designs tailored to unique blocks, heritage requirements, and architectural styles. Custom fabrication generally increases front fence cost Melbourne, but provides a perfect fit and standout street appeal.
Cost Breakdown by Popular Melbourne Suburbs
Fence pricing often varies by suburb due to design expectations, labour availability, council controls, and property types. Here's what homeowners in key regions can expect.
Inner-East (Hawthorn, Kew, Camberwell)
The Inner-East is known for its period homes, leafy streets, and strict heritage controls. Premium materials such as hardwood, wrought iron, and brick piers are common, pushing prices higher than in most areas.
Increased demand for bespoke designs
Custom pickets, ornate tops, and heritage styling
Heritage overlays often require permits and design documentation
Front fences here typically sit 10–25% above Melbourne’s average.
South-East (Bentleigh, Carnegie, Oakleigh)
This region balances modern homes with post-war properties, creating strong demand for mid-range, stylish fencing.
Popular choices: aluminium slats, Colorbond, steel
Reliable contractor availability helps keep costs moderate
Many homeowners choose automated driveway gates for convenience
Expect mid-range pricing, with custom elements depending on street appeal goals.
North & Inner-North (Northcote, Brunswick, Preston)
The Inner-North continues to embrace contemporary architectural designs.
Recycled timber, steel slats, and minimalist designs trending
Narrow terrace blocks often require custom fabrication
Access constraints can slightly increase labour costs
Pricing tends to vary widely due to the mix of old and new homes.
Western Suburbs (Footscray, Yarraville, Altona)
The west has a diverse mix of Victorian homes, new townhouse developments, and large frontage blocks.
Strong demand for durable Colorbond and tubular steel
Wider blocks increase metreage, influencing total cost
Modern aluminium slat fences becoming more common in new estates
Many homeowners here prioritise affordability and resilience, keeping material choices practical.
Do You Need a Council Permit for a Front Fence in Melbourne?
Before starting any front-fence project, it’s essential to know whether a permit is required. In Victoria, council rules can vary significantly, so having a clear understanding early on avoids delays and unexpected costs.
General Victorian Rules
As a guideline:
Front fences above 1.2–1.5m may require a permit
Corner blocks often have sight-line restrictions to ensure traffic visibility
Brick and masonry fences sometimes require structural documentation
Each council interprets the Victorian Planning Provisions differently, so requirements can shift slightly.
Suburb-Specific Considerations
Some suburbs have additional restrictions that affect fence design and cost.
Heritage zones in Boroondara, Yarra, and Stonnington require special approval
Bushfire overlay areas in outer suburbs, especially along the urban fringe, may impose material and height limits
Coastal councils may control colours and reflective materials
Disclaimer
Council rules change regularly, and this guide provides general information only. Always confirm the exact requirements with your local council before building your fence.
Choosing the Right Front Fence for Your Home
A front fence should do more than mark your boundary; it should complement your home’s character, secure your property, and enhance your street presence. Here are the key considerations when choosing the best option for your Melbourne home.
Matching Your Home Style
Contemporary homes: aluminium slats, minimalist steel, masonry
Period homes: timber pickets, wrought iron, custom steel
Coastal properties: PVC, aluminium, light powder-coat colours
Urban townhouses: Colorbond, steel, recycled timber elements
Choosing a fence that aligns with your home style instantly boosts kerb appeal.
Privacy vs Street Appeal
Some homeowners prioritise privacy, choosing solid materials like Colorbond or close-slatted aluminium. Others prefer visibility and openness, opting for tubular steel or picket fences. Consider whether your fence’s main role is privacy, aesthetics, or security, or a mix of all three.
Maintenance Levels & Long-Term Value
Timber looks beautiful but needs periodic upkeep. Aluminium and steel offer durability with minimal maintenance. Brick and masonry provide the longest lifespan but come with the highest upfront cost. PVC also offers long-term value without repainting.
Why Melbourne Homeowners Choose Latitude Fencing & Gate
At Latitude Fencing & Gate, we specialise in custom front fences and gates designed specifically for Melbourne’s diverse suburbs and property styles. We provide:
Custom manufacturing for a perfect fit
High-quality, long-lasting materials across timber, steel, aluminium, PVC, and masonry
Seamless installation and automation options for sliding and swing gates
Support with council regulations and compliant designs
Local expertise across both heritage suburbs and modern new estates
Our team handles everything, from design and fabrication to installation and gate automation, ensuring your fence is built to last and tailored to your home.
Conclusion: Getting Your Front Fence Right in 2025
The front fence cost Melbourne varies widely based on material choice, suburb, and design complexity. In 2025, homeowners can expect to pay anywhere from budget-friendly timber and Colorbond options to premium steel, aluminium, and masonry installations.
In addition, choosing the right fence is about more than cost. It’s about matching the design to your home, maximising privacy and security, and ensuring your investment lasts for years to come.
If you’re ready to get started or want an accurate, personalised quote for your property, contact Latitude Fencing & Gate and get a free on-site measure. Our team is here to help you build a front fence that looks great, stands strong for years, and fits your budget.
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