How much does fence painting cost in Melbourne?

Quick answer: professional fence painting in Melbourne typically costs $15–$35 per lineal metre for one side of a timber paling fence, $30–$80 per metre for a picket fence and $15–$45 per metre for a Colorbond fence. Painting both sides of a paling fence costs about twice as much. Your price depends on the fence's condition, the finish you choose and how easy it is to reach.

These are typical market ranges from published 2026 Melbourne price guides, not a quote. For an exact price, we'll come and measure up, then give you a free, no-obligation quote.

Typical fence painting costs in Melbourne (2026)

Typical cost per lineal metre:

• Timber paling fence, one side: $15–$35

• Timber paling fence, both sides: $30–$70

• Picket fence: $30–$80

• Colorbond fence: $15–$45

Example: a 30-metre paling fence painted on one side would typically cost about $450–$1,050.

Picket fences cost more per metre because every picket and gap is painted by hand. Colorbond prices vary the most, because the steel has to be cleaned, keyed and primed before the top coats go on.

Painting both sides of a boundary fence

We can paint or stain both sides of a fence. If it's a boundary fence, we'll need access to your neighbour's side, so it's worth talking to them first. Many neighbours share the cost when both sides are done.

Painting or staining: which is right for your fence?

Painting and staining are priced differently, and which costs more depends on the condition of your fence. Your quote will show the price for the finish you choose.

• Stain soaks into the timber and keeps its natural grain. It's the usual choice for paling fences.

• Paint gives a solid, even colour and suits picket and Colorbond fences.

Not sure which to choose? We'll talk you through both options when we measure up.

What affects the cost of painting a fence?

• Length and height: most fences are priced per lineal metre, and taller fences take longer.

• One side or both: painting both sides roughly doubles the work.

• Fence type: paling, picket or Colorbond.

• Condition: weathered, grey or flaking timber needs more cleaning and sanding before any finish goes on.

• Paint or stain, and the number of coats.

• Access: garden beds, slopes, sheds and plants along the fence line add time.

• Repairs: we can replace damaged palings and rails before painting. Repairs are quoted separately.

How to get an accurate fence painting quote

Measure the length of the fence and note its height, which sides you want done and whether you'd like paint or stain. Photos help us give you an idea first. For an exact price, we'll come and measure up, then give you a free, no-obligation quote.

Fence painting cost FAQs

How much does it cost to paint a fence in Melbourne?

Typical market prices are $15–$35 per lineal metre for one side of a timber paling fence, $30–$80 per metre for a picket fence and $15–$45 per metre for a Colorbond fence. The exact price depends on the fence's condition, the finish and access.

Is there a minimum job price?

No. We quote every fence on its own size and condition.

Can a Colorbond fence be painted?

Yes. We clean it, key the surface and use a primer suited to pre-painted steel before two top coats, so the new paint grips and lasts.

Do you paint both sides of a fence?

Yes. For a boundary fence, we'll need access to your neighbour's side.

Do you repair fences before painting?

Yes, we replace damaged palings and rails before painting. We don't build new fences or replace posts.

Ready to get your fence painted?

See our fence painting and staining service, or our house painting cost guide for other painting costs.