Plastering Prices
Worldwide · Updated March 2026 · 12 service types · 5 countries
$25\u2013$55/m\u00B2 for walls · $1,200\u2013$3,000 per room
Walls from $25/m\u00B2 · Ceilings $30\u2013$65/m\u00B2 · Repairs from $100 · Skim coat $20\u2013$45/m\u00B2
How we get these prices: we review 200+ plastering price points across wall plastering, ceiling plastering, skim coating, plaster repairs, plasterboard installation, cornices, and decorative finishes, then adjust for room size, wall condition, ceiling height, access, and location so the totals stay comparable.
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Select a country to see detailed plastering pricing by city
Australia
plastering
From $12
12 services · 7 cities with data
8 regions covered
View Australia prices →
United Kingdom
plastering
From £8
12 services · 4 cities with data
4 regions covered
View United Kingdom prices →
United States
drywall/plastering
From $8
12 services · 4 cities with data
12 regions covered
View United States prices →
Canada
plastering
From C$14
12 services · 4 cities with data
6 regions covered
View Canada prices →
New Zealand
plastering
From NZ$14
12 services · 4 cities with data
5 regions covered
View New Zealand prices →
Plastering Prices by Service Type — Australia
National average prices — including labour and GST
| Service | Unit | From | Average | Up to |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wall Plastering | /m² | $25 | $38 | $55 |
| Ceiling Plastering | /m² | $30 | $45 | $65 |
| Cornices & Cornice Replacement | /m | $12 | $20 | $30 |
| Plaster Repair (small patch) | /patch | $100 | $165 | $250 |
| Plaster Repair (large area) | /area | $250 | $400 | $600 |
| Skim Coat / Plaster Skim | /m² | $20 | $30 | $45 |
| Feature Wall / Venetian Plaster | /m² | $80 | $130 | $200 |
| Plasterboard Install | /m² | $25 | $35 | $50 |
| Plasterboard Supply & Install | /m² | $40 | $55 | $75 |
| Ceiling Rose Install | /each | $80 | $130 | $200 |
| Textured Ceiling Removal | /m² | $30 | $42 | $60 |
| Full Room Plaster (walls + ceiling, avg room) | /room | $1,200 | $2,000 | $3,000 |
Based on verified quotes from plastering providers. All prices AUD including GST. Last updated March 2026.
Common Plastering Jobs and What They Cost
Real project costs based on complete scope — including callout, labour, materials, and cleanup.
| Job | Typical scope | Typical price | Timeframe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Patch and repair a hole in a plasterboard wall | Cut out damaged section, install backing support, apply new plasterboard patch, tape, joint compound, sand, and finish ready for painting | $100–$250 | 1–2 hours |
| Skim coat a bedroom (walls and ceiling) | Prepare existing surfaces, apply thin plaster skim coat to walls and ceiling, sand smooth, ready for painting | $800–$1,500 | 1–2 days |
| Replace cornices in a living room | Remove old cornices, prepare wall-ceiling junction, install new cornice moulding with mitred corners, fill and sand joins | $300–$700 | 4–8 hours |
| Plasterboard and finish a new garage conversion | Supply and install plasterboard to walls and ceiling, tape and joint, skim coat, install cornices, finish ready for painting | $2,500–$5,000 | 3–5 days |
| Remove popcorn ceiling and skim smooth in a master bedroom | Scrape textured ceiling finish, repair underlying surface, apply skim coat, sand smooth, ready for painting | $600–$1,200 | 1–2 days |
| Venetian plaster feature wall in a dining room | Prepare wall surface, apply multiple coats of Venetian plaster, burnish and polish, apply sealer for protection | $800–$2,000 | 2–3 days |
What Affects the Price of Plastering?
Room size and total area
The total area to be plastered is the primary cost driver. Larger rooms offer better value per square metre because setup and travel costs are spread across more area. Small jobs often attract a minimum callout fee.
Wall and ceiling condition
Walls in good condition that only need a skim coat are cheaper than walls requiring full preparation, crack filling, or removal of old plaster. Water-damaged or crumbling plaster increases costs significantly.
Ceiling height
Standard 2.4m ceilings are straightforward. High ceilings (3m+) require scaffolding or stilts, increasing both time and cost. Heritage properties with 3.5m+ ceilings attract premium rates.
Access and furniture
Empty rooms with clear access are cheapest. Rooms with furniture require additional time for covering and protection. Tight hallways and stairwells are more difficult to work in and cost more per square metre.
Plaster type and finish
Standard gypsum plaster and plasterboard finishes are the most affordable. Venetian plaster, polished plaster, and decorative finishes require specialist skills and multiple coats, costing 3–5x more per square metre.
Location and demand
Capital city rates are 15–30% higher than regional areas. Sydney and Melbourne are the most expensive in Australia. Seasonal demand affects availability and pricing — renovation season (spring/summer) is busiest.
What's Included vs What Costs Extra
Usually Included
Surface preparation and cleaning
Removing loose plaster, dusting, and priming surfaces before application
Plaster application (base and finish coats)
Labour for applying plaster or joint compound to specified areas
Sanding and finishing
Smoothing to a paint-ready finish including any minor touch-ups
Basic materials for standard finishes
Gypsum plaster, joint compound, tape, and corner beads for standard work
Floor and fixture protection
Drop sheets and masking to protect floors, fixtures, and adjacent areas
Often Costs Extra
Removal of old or damaged plaster
Stripping existing plaster back to brick or framing — $15–$30/m² additional
Scaffolding for high ceilings
Required for ceilings above 3m — $200–$500 per room depending on height
Waste disposal and skip bin
Removal of old plaster and debris — $150–$400 depending on volume
Painting after plastering
Not usually included — allow 1–2 weeks drying time before painting. Budget $15–$35/m² for painting
Asbestos testing and removal
Required for textured ceilings in pre-1990 homes — testing $50–$150, removal $25–$60/m²
Structural repairs behind plaster
Fixing damaged framing, noggins, or lath before replastering — quoted separately
DIY vs Hiring a Plasterer
When to save money doing it yourself — and when to call a professional
| Task | DIY difficulty | Pro cost | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small hole patch (fist-sized) | Easy — patch kits available at hardware stores for $15–$30 | $100–$250 | DIY is cost-effective for small patches if you have patience for sanding |
| Skim coat a single wall | Hard — requires skill to achieve a smooth, even finish | $20–$45/m² | Professional recommended — poor DIY skim coating is very visible after painting |
| Install plasterboard | Moderate — heavy sheets, requires correct fixing and taping | $25–$50/m² | DIY possible for small areas if you have a helper; professional for full rooms |
| Ceiling plastering | Very hard — overhead work, gravity works against you | $30–$65/m² | Professional strongly recommended — ceiling work is physically demanding and skill-intensive |
| Cornice installation | Moderate — cutting mitres accurately is the main challenge | $12–$30/m | DIY viable with a mitre box for simple profiles; professional for ornate designs |
| Venetian plaster feature wall | Not practical — requires specialist tools, materials, and years of experience | $80–$200/m² | Professional only — decorative plastering cannot be effectively DIY’d |
| Textured ceiling removal | Moderate — messy but achievable with scraper and water | $30–$60/m² | DIY viable if tested negative for asbestos — very messy job, allow a full day |
Warning Signs You Need a Plasterer
Small problems that become expensive if ignored
Cracks appearing in walls or ceilings
Small hairline cracks are cosmetic, but widening cracks (over 3mm) may indicate structural movement that should be assessed before replastering
Plaster bulging or separating from the wall
Delaminating plaster will eventually fall — refix or replace before it drops on furniture, flooring, or people below
Water stains or damp patches on plaster
Moisture behind plaster causes mould growth and structural decay — fix the water source before replastering or the problem will recur
Hollow or drummy-sounding plaster when tapped
Plaster that has lost its key (bond to the wall) will crack and fall over time — re-fixing or replacement is needed
Mould growth on plaster surfaces
Surface mould indicates moisture problems — address ventilation and waterproofing before cosmetic plaster repairs
Popcorn or textured ceiling in a pre-1990 home
Textured coatings applied before 1990 may contain asbestos — test before any scraping, sanding, or removal work
What to Expect: The Plastering Process
A step-by-step guide to what happens from first quote to paint-ready walls
Initial inspection and quote
The plasterer inspects the surfaces to be worked on, checks wall condition, ceiling height, and access. They discuss the finish you want (smooth, textured, decorative) and identify any preparation work needed. For renovation work, they check for asbestos in pre-1990 textured coatings.
Typical duration: 30–60 min on-site
Surface preparation
Old plaster is scraped, loose material removed, cracks opened and filled, and surfaces cleaned. For new plasterboard work, sheets are measured, cut, and fixed to studs. All joints are taped and first-coat filled. Drop sheets are laid and adjacent surfaces masked.
Typical duration: 2–4 hours per room
Base coat application
The first coat of plaster is applied to build up the surface to the required thickness. For plasterboard, this means filling all screw holes, joints, and internal corners. For solid wall plastering, a scratch coat is applied and keyed for the finish coat to bond to.
Typical duration: 1–2 hours per room
Finish coat and smoothing
The final plaster coat is applied and trowelled smooth. For skim coating, this is a thin 2–3mm layer worked to a glass-like finish. For Venetian plaster, multiple thin coats are applied and burnished between coats. The plasterer uses hawk, trowel, and float to achieve the desired texture.
Typical duration: 2–4 hours per room
Sanding and finishing
Once dry (24–48 hours for standard plaster), joints and surfaces are sanded smooth using fine-grit sandpaper or a pole sander. Any imperfections are spot-filled and re-sanded. The surface is dusted clean and inspected under side-lighting to check for defects.
Typical duration: 1–2 hours per room
Final inspection and cleanup
Walk through the completed work with the plasterer. Check all surfaces under side-lighting — imperfections are most visible at this stage. The plasterer removes drop sheets, cleans up dust and debris, and confirms drying time before painting (typically 1–2 weeks for full cure).
Typical duration: 30 min
How to Save Money on Plastering
Practical tips from plasterers and renovation project managers
Do all rooms at once, not one at a time
Plasterers charge a callout/setup fee ($80–$150). Batching multiple rooms into one visit spreads this cost. A 3-room job is typically 15–20% cheaper per room than three separate callouts.
Clear the room completely before the plasterer arrives
Moving and covering furniture adds time to every job. An empty room is faster to work in, produces a better result (no obstacles to work around), and saves you $50–$100 in additional labour.
Choose skim coating over full replastering when possible
If existing walls are structurally sound but just rough or marked, a skim coat ($20–$45/m²) is significantly cheaper than full replastering ($25–$55/m²) and achieves a paint-ready finish with less material and time.
Get 3 quotes and check their recent work
Quality variation among plasterers is high, especially for skim coating and decorative finishes. Ask to see recent photos or visit a completed job. The cheapest quote may mean visible joints and a poor finish that costs more to fix than doing it right the first time.
Book during quieter months (May–August)
Plastering demand peaks in spring and summer when renovations ramp up. Winter months offer better availability and sometimes lower rates. Indoor plastering is unaffected by weather, making it ideal winter work.
Supply your own plasterboard if buying in bulk
For large jobs (garage conversions, extensions), buying plasterboard directly from a building supplier can save 10–15% vs the plasterer’s markup. Confirm the type and thickness with your plasterer first — standard residential is 10mm or 13mm.
Best Time of Year for Plastering
When to book for the best price, availability, and drying conditions
| Season | Demand | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Sep–Nov) | High | Renovation season begins. New builds ramp up and homeowners start indoor projects. Plasterers are busy — book 2–3 weeks ahead. Good drying conditions with moderate humidity and rising temperatures. |
| Summer (Dec–Feb) | Very High | Peak demand from new construction and holiday renovation projects. Longest wait times for quotes. High temperatures speed drying but can cause plaster to dry too quickly in extreme heat, requiring careful technique. Christmas shutdown reduces availability in late December/January. |
| Autumn (Mar–May) | Moderate | Good window for plastering work. Demand eases, availability improves, and conditions are ideal — moderate temperatures and humidity produce the best curing conditions for plaster. Smart time for renovation plastering. |
| Winter (Jun–Aug) | Low | Quietest period. Best availability and potentially better rates. Indoor plastering is unaffected by cold weather, but drying times are longer (2–3 weeks vs 1–2 weeks in summer). Ensure adequate ventilation and heating to prevent damp curing. |
Plastering Price Trends (2024–2026)
Year-over-year average cost comparison for common plastering services
| Service | 2024 Avg | 2025 Avg | 2026 Avg | 2-Year Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wall Plastering | $35/m² | $37/m² | $38/m² | +8.6% |
| Ceiling Plastering | $41/m² | $43/m² | $45/m² | +9.8% |
| Skim Coat | $27/m² | $28/m² | $30/m² | +11.1% |
| Plaster Repair (patch) | $150/patch | $158/patch | $165/patch | +10.0% |
| Cornice Install | $17/m | $18/m | $20/m | +17.6% |
| Plasterboard Supply & Install | $50/m² | $52/m² | $55/m² | +10.0% |
| Venetian Plaster | $118/m² | $125/m² | $130/m² | +10.2% |
| Full Room (walls + ceiling) | $1,800/room | $1,900/room | $2,000/room | +11.1% |
What’s Driving Price Increases
Plastering prices have risen 8–11% since 2024. The primary drivers are gypsum product price increases (plasterboard up 12–15% since 2023 due to energy costs in manufacturing), trades labour shortages pushing plasterer wages up 5–7% year-on-year, and rising fuel and vehicle costs for mobile tradespeople. Joint compound, cornices, and specialty plasters have all tracked above CPI. Insurance premiums for plastering contractors rose 8–12% in 2025.
Regional Differences
Sydney is the most expensive capital for plastering, averaging 15–20% above the national average. Melbourne is 10–15% above. Brisbane and Perth are close to the national average. Adelaide and Hobart are 5–10% below. Regional areas vary — towns with active building booms (e.g., Gold Coast, Geelong, Wollongong) have seen prices approach metro levels due to local demand.
Supply and Demand
Plasterers remain among the hardest trades to book in 2026. The residential construction pipeline in south-east Queensland and western Melbourne has absorbed a significant portion of the workforce. Renovation activity, which surged during COVID and has remained elevated, continues to compete with new builds for available plasterers. Apprenticeship numbers are growing but not yet meeting demand.
2026–2027 Outlook
Expect plastering prices to rise a further 2–4% through 2027. Gypsum product prices are stabilising as energy costs moderate, which should ease material cost pressure. However, labour shortages in the plastering trade are structural and unlikely to resolve quickly. Decorative plastering (Venetian, polished) continues to grow in popularity, pushing specialist rates higher. Standard plasterboard work is most likely to see price stabilisation as material costs flatten.
Plastering in Australia costs $25–$55/m² for walls, $30–$65/m² for ceilings, $100–$250 for small patch repairs, and $1,200–$3,000 for a full room. Skim coating is $20–$45/m². All prices include GST.
Plastering involves applying a thicker base coat and finish coat to create a new plaster surface. Skim coating is a thin finishing layer applied over existing plaster or plasterboard to create a smooth, paint-ready surface. Skim coating is cheaper ($20–$45/m²) than full plastering ($25–$55/m²) because it uses less material and takes less time.
Standard gypsum plaster needs 1–2 weeks to dry fully before painting, depending on thickness, temperature, and ventilation. Skim coats dry faster (3–7 days). Plaster that is still damp will cause paint to peel or bubble. Use a moisture meter if in doubt.
Yes, if the existing plaster is in sound condition and well-bonded to the wall. A skim coat can be applied directly over existing plaster after proper preparation (cleaning, PVA bonding agent). If the existing plaster is loose, crumbling, or water-damaged, it must be removed first.
Venetian plaster is a decorative finish made from slaked lime and marble dust, applied in multiple thin layers, then burnished and polished to a smooth, stone-like appearance. It costs $80–$200/m² because it requires specialist materials, multiple coats (3–6), and significant skill to achieve a consistent, high-quality finish.
Yes, if your home was built before 1990. Textured ceiling coatings (popcorn, Artex, stipple) applied before the late 1980s commonly contain asbestos. Professional testing costs $50–$150 and is essential before any scraping, sanding, or removal work. Licensed asbestos removal is required if the test is positive.
Ask for recommendations from friends, neighbours, or your painter (painters see the quality of every plasterer’s work). Check online reviews on Google, Hipages, or similar platforms. Ask to see examples of recent work, especially for decorative or skim coat finishes where quality variation is high. Always get 2–3 written quotes for jobs over $500.
Yes — plasterboard, drywall, and Gyprock (Australia) / GIB (New Zealand) / Sheetrock (US) are all brand or regional names for gypsum board. It is the same product: sheets of gypsum plaster sandwiched between paper liners, fixed to wall studs, then taped, jointed, and finished.
Yes. Plastering prices have risen 8–11% since 2024 across most service types. Key drivers include gypsum product price increases (plasterboard up 12–15% since 2023), trades labour shortages pushing plasterer wages up 5–7% year-on-year, and rising fuel and vehicle costs for mobile operators. Expect modest 2–4% annual increases through 2027 as material costs stabilise.
Autumn (March–May) offers the best combination of availability, pricing, and drying conditions. Moderate temperatures and humidity produce ideal plaster curing. Winter is the quietest period with best availability, but drying times are longer. Avoid peak renovation season (October–February) if you want shorter wait times and potentially better rates.
For a standard 3-bedroom home (approximately 120m² of wall and ceiling area), full plastering costs $6,000–$12,000 depending on finish quality, ceiling height, and whether it is new plasterboard or replastering over existing surfaces. New build plasterboard installation and finishing averages $40–$55/m² including supply.
Most plasterers charge a minimum callout fee of $150–$300 regardless of job size. This covers travel time, setup, and cleanup. Small patch repairs ($100–$250) often fall under this minimum, which is why batching multiple small repairs into one visit is more cost-effective.