How much does a concrete slab cost in Melbourne?
Whether you're pouring a concrete driveway, planning house foundations, or building a shed, understanding your concrete slab cost upfront is essential. From material choice to site complexity, pricing varies depending on the size of the job and the specific requirements on site. This guide will walk you through the typical concrete costs in Melbourne and what you can expect when planning your pour, from labour costs to wet concrete delivery and more.
Key factors that affect your concrete slab price
No two slab pours are the same, and several variables can affect your total price. The most common major variables include:
- Size and thickness of the slab — the more concrete needed, the higher the cost
- Type of slab — e.g. reinforced slabs, plain concrete, or durable concrete options like waffle pod designs
- Site access and condition — difficult terrain or limited access may require additional equipment
- Level of reinforcement — steel mesh or rebar is often required for structural strength
- Volume of concrete required — affects batching, delivery, and the potential need for more concrete on site
- Weather and timing — scheduling during optimal conditions helps ensure a timely manner and avoids rework
- Pumping requirements — depending on access, you may need a line or boom pump to place the slab correctly
Average concrete slab cost in Melbourne
On average, you can expect to pay between $70 and $120 per square metre for a standard concrete house slab in Melbourne. This figure typically covers plain concrete, basic labour costs, and standard site preparation. If you're using reinforced concrete, need thicker sections, or are working on a sloped or difficult block, that number can increase quickly.
For larger projects, costs often benefit from economies of scale, whereas smaller projects may attract a premium due to minimum volume requirements.
Concrete supply and delivery costs
Concrete costs aren’t just about the material itself — delivery plays a big role. In Melbourne, the cost per cubic metre of concrete mix typically ranges from $130 to $180, depending on the strength, additives, and volume ordered. Most suppliers will charge extra for smaller projects under a set minimum load. Add to that the cost of coordinating wet concrete delivery with pump hire, and it’s clear that logistics are just as important as product.
If you're ordering for larger projects or remote sites, you may need to allow for higher freight and scheduling charges. That’s why it's critical to work with a team that manages both concrete supply and pumping — to reduce delays, waste, and costs.
Additional construction costs to consider
Beyond the concrete mix and slab itself, your overall budget should account for several other items that influence your total concrete slab cost. These may include:
- Formwork and boxing to shape the slab
- Vapour barriers, plastic sheeting, or termite protection
- Excavation and compaction before pouring
- Underslab services such as plumbing or electrical
- Edge thickening or drop beams for solid foundation performance
- Finishes such as coloured concrete, sealing, or polishing (if not using plain concrete)
Factoring these extras in from the start helps avoid budget blowouts or scope changes later on.
Planning your slab pour with Get Pumped
When you're preparing for a concrete house slab, shed slab, or concrete driveway, working with the right team makes all the difference. At Get Pumped, we coordinate your concrete supply, concrete pumping, and timing to ensure everything runs smoothly and in a timely manner. Our experience across reinforced slabs, larger projects, and smaller pours means you’ll get the right volume of concrete required — without costly delays or wasted material.
If you're looking to get started with a quote or want to better understand your concrete slab cost, get in touch with our team today. We're here to deliver durable, high-quality results that form the base of a strong build.
