Get instant cost estimates for your Colorbond fencing project in Melbourne & the Mornington Peninsula. Calculate supply-only or installed prices with gates, plinths, terrain factors and more.
Item | Ex-GST | Incl-GST |
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In 2025, expect to pay $120–$180 per metre for supply-only Colorbond fencing materials (1.8m height, standard finish), and $180–$260 per metre installed in Melbourne and the Mornington Peninsula. Prices vary based on height, profile type (plinths, lattice), coastal exposure requiring premium finishes, and terrain complexity. Gate additions, old fence removal, and difficult access can add $12–$50 per metre to the base cost.
Our calculator provides transparent pricing that reflects real 2025 Victorian market rates, including marine-grade fixings for coastal properties, GST-inclusive totals, and optional extras like plinths ($42–$84 per bay) and gates ($310–$620 supply-only). Always request an on-site quote to confirm final pricing based on your property's specific conditions, soil type, and council requirements.
Choosing the right fence height depends on your privacy needs, council regulations, and budget. Here's how Colorbond fence heights compare for a typical 20-metre fence in Melbourne:
Height | Best For | Supply Cost (20m) | Installed Cost (20m) |
---|---|---|---|
1.5m | Front boundaries, low-privacy areas, budget projects | $2,160–$2,880 | $3,240–$4,320 |
1.8m | Standard residential (most common), rear/side boundaries | $2,400–$3,200 | $3,600–$4,800 |
2.1m | Enhanced privacy, screening overlooking, taller homes | $2,880–$3,840 | $4,320–$5,760 |
2.4m | Maximum privacy, commercial, pool compliance (check local codes) | $3,240–$4,320 | $4,860–$6,480 |
Council height limits in Victoria: Most councils permit 2.0m fences on rear/side boundaries without a permit, and 1.2m–1.5m on front boundaries. Always check your local council regulations before selecting fence height. Taller fences may require engineer certification for wind loading, especially in coastal areas like the Mornington Peninsula.
Bunnings and hardware stores sell Colorbond fence panel kits for $90–$140 per 2.4m panel (supply-only), which seems cheaper than professional installation at $180–$260 per metre. However, DIY Colorbond fencing requires significant skill, tools (post hole digger, spirit level, drill, concrete mixer), and time—expect 2–3 full weekends for a 20-metre fence.
Professional installation includes accurate measurement, laser-level alignment, compliant post depth (600–900mm in VIC), marine-grade fixings for coastal areas, warranty coverage, and council-ready workmanship. DIY mistakes—uneven posts, incorrect spacing, or weak footings—can cost more to fix than the original savings. For complex terrain, sloped blocks, or properties near the coast, professional installation delivers better long-term value and peace of mind.
When DIY makes sense: Flat, accessible sites with simple straight runs, if you have fencing experience and own the necessary tools. When to hire a pro: Sloped terrain, coastal exposure, corners/gates, pool fencing compliance, or when you value time and warranty protection.
Properties within 5km of the coast (common across the Mornington Peninsula, Frankston, and bayside Melbourne) face accelerated corrosion from salt spray. Upgrade to premium Colorbond finishes (Ultra or Marine-grade steel) and mandate 316 stainless steel fixings (not standard zinc-plated screws). Premium finishes add 10% to material costs but extend fence life from 20–25 years to 35–40+ years in coastal conditions.
Bushfire-prone areas (BAL zones in Victoria) require non-combustible fencing materials. Colorbond steel fencing meets bushfire compliance for BAL-12.5 to BAL-40 zones, unlike timber. Confirm BAL rating requirements with your local council and ensure installers use ember-resistant seals at ground level and post interfaces. Some councils mandate specific post types (steel vs timber) for bushfire zones—check before purchasing materials.
Gates: Single Colorbond gates (1m wide) cost $310–$450 supply-only, plus $130–$180 installation. Double gates (2.4m+ wide) run $620–$850 supply-only, plus $220–$300 installation. Include self-closing hinges ($40–$80) for pool compliance, and D-latches or lockable handles.
Plinths: Decorative concrete or steel plinths (100–200mm high) add $42 per bay for single-row designs, $84 per bay for double-row (stacked). Plinths protect fence panels from ground moisture, enhance visual appeal, and suit sloped blocks. Popular in Hampton-style and modern estates.
Lattice tops: Add 300–600mm of decorative lattice above solid panels for airflow and aesthetics—costs $75 per bay supply-only. Reduces wind load and softens the fence's visual mass.
Retaining wall interfaces: Fencing on top of retaining walls (sleeper, concrete, or engineered systems) requires custom post mounting brackets and engineer certification if the combined height exceeds 2.4m. Expect $150–$300 extra per post for bracket installation and compliance checks.
Lead times: Standard Colorbond fencing materials are typically in stock, with 1–2 week lead times in Melbourne. Custom colors (beyond the popular Monument, Basalt, Woodland Grey) or premium Ultra finishes may add 2–4 weeks. Installation scheduling depends on contractor availability—book 3–6 weeks ahead in peak season (September–March).
Council permits: In Victoria, fencing on rear/side boundaries up to 2.0m height generally doesn't require a planning permit, but front fences over 1.2m–1.5m (varies by council) do. Boundary fencing disputes fall under the Fences Act 1968—notify adjoining owners in writing before commencing work. Pool fencing must comply with AS1926.1-2012 regardless of council permits.
Typical project timeline: Site inspection and quote (1–3 days), material ordering (1–2 weeks), installation for 20m fence (1–2 days). Add 1–2 weeks if old fence removal, terrain leveling, or permit applications are required.
Our calculator provides estimates, but every property is unique. Contact us for a free on-site inspection and detailed quote tailored to your project in Melbourne or the Mornington Peninsula.