How much does a garage door installation cost in Australia?

Professional garage door installation averages from $2,200 to $4,000, including labour, but varies by door type and location.

Key facts Garage door costs range from $600 to $3,000, with automated systems reaching higher prices. Most garage doors last 15-30 years with proper maintenance. Installation requires licensed professionals for safety and warranty coverage.

The average garage door opens and closes about 1,500 times per year—that’s four times every day. With this much daily action, it’s no wonder that garage door installation costs in Australia need careful consideration. Whether you’re replacing a tired system or installing fresh, this sizeable investment deserves more than a quick price check.

Like other home exterior improvements, getting the right door at the right price matters. Let’s dive into what you’ll really pay for different options and why some garage door costs might surprise you.

Average garage door installation costs in Australia

Disclaimer: These prices are only estimated starting points for budgeting. Actual costs may vary based on specific project requirements and local market conditions.

The cost to install a garage door varies significantly based on type, location, and more. The average cost of garage door and installation in Australia, including the door, labour, materials, and tracks, is around $2,200 to $4,000. This excludes driveway design and paving costs.

Let’s break down a typical garage door price list across different states:

State/Territory	Average hourly labour rate
New South Wales	$50 – $60
Victoria	$50 – $60
Western Australia	$60 – $70
Queensland	$40 – $50
South Australia	$45 – $55
Tasmania	$45 – $60
Australian Capital Territory	$55 – $65
Northern Territory	$50 – $70

The average labour rate is about $55 per hour, and garage door installation typically takes 4 to 6 hours.

When it comes to garage doors, you have several options to choose from. Each type comes with its own benefits and price range, with garage roller doors prices typically being the lowest.

Here are the average garage door prices by type:

Door type	Price range (including installation)
Single roller door	$700 – $2,000
Double roller door	$2,400 – $2,800
Single sectional door	$2,000 – $2,200
Double sectional door	$2,600 – $3,000
Single tilt door	$1,700 – $2,250
Double tilt door	$2,300 – $2,800
Panel lift door	$800 – $2,300
Roller shutter door	$700 – $1,400

Understanding what drives garage door costs helps you make smarter choices and avoid hidden expenses. Here’s what impacts the final garage door cost and installation:

Location and accessibility

Metropolitan homeowners pay premium rates for installations, with Sydney, Melbourne, and Canberra leading the price charts. Rural areas offer better base rates, but expect travel charges and a limited choice of installers.

Door size and type

Double garage doors require more materials and installation time than single doors. A basic roller garage door costs less than a sectional door, while tilt doors sit in the middle range. Automatic systems push prices up because of their components and installation time.

That said, just because it’s a roller type doesn’t always mean it’s cheap. For example, the cost of a single roller garage door is vastly different from the cost of a double roller garage door. This means the complexity and components of a garage door dictate its final price.

Materials and brand selection

Steel remains the budget-friendly champion for garage doors. Meanwhile, custom timber doors command top dollar but offer unique character. Finally, aluminium composite balances cost and style.

Remember that each material needs different maintenance, which affects long-term costs. Some materials may also favour a particular exterior paint finish; for example, an aluminium garage door goes well with neutral exterior home finishes.

Finally, choose a material that complements your overall exterior design, including your landscaping, to create a cohesive kerb appeal.

Automation and additional features

Modern garage doors can connect to your phone, sense obstacles, and integrate with home security. Each smart feature adds to your upfront cost. Remote controls and safety beams are standard in most automatic systems, but premium features like camera integration and wifi connectivity boost the price.

Installation complexity

Your final cost depends on what installers find when they start work. Common cost-adding issues include:

• Removing existing doors and hardware
• Replacing or modifying outdated tracks
• Reinforcing weakened or damaged wall supports, especially for specialty garages like brick garages
• Upgrading electrical systems for automation

A straightforward door replacement takes no more than 6 hours, while replacing components, such as a simple garage door spring installation, costs even less in terms of time and money. Complex jobs with electrical work and structural changes can stretch several days, increasing labour costs.

Removal costs

Getting rid of your old door isn’t free. Most installers include removal in their quote, but heavy timber doors or doors with asbestos components cost extra to dispose of. Ask about disposal fees upfront to avoid surprise charges.

To get detailed quotes from garage door installers when asking how much a garage door costs, follow this checklist:

Know your numbers

A common woodworking principle is “measure twice, cut once.” When it comes to garage doors, it means getting accurate measurements before asking for quotes. You’ll need:

• Door opening width and height
• Headroom (space between top of opening and ceiling)
• Side clearances
• Depth of your garage

These measurements help installers recommend the right door type and give you accurate pricing. Many homeowners skip this step and end up with quotes that change once the installer visits.

Maintenance matters too

The cheapest garage door quote isn’t always the best value. For example, a door that needs biannual maintenance will cost more over time than a premium option requiring annual checks. Look at warranty periods as a signal of quality—manufacturers who offer longer coverage trust their products to last.

Consider your energy bills, too. Insulated doors help regulate your garage temperature, which matters if you’re using the space as a workshop or gym. Many homeowners pair their new door with professional garage flooring to create a truly functional space.

Watch out for red flags

A trustworthy garage door quote comes from a site inspection, not just a phone call. Quality installers provide detailed cost breakdowns and clear warranty terms. They’ll explain exactly what you’re paying for without rushing you to decide.

In addition, avoid installers who pressure you to commit on the spot. Good contractors understand you need time to compare options. If someone’s pushing for an immediate decision, they might be hiding something. The same goes for vague quotes that leave room for surprise charges later.

Overall, quality installers back their work with clear terms and transparent pricing. They’ll walk you through potential complications and costs upfront, so you know exactly what to expect.

A garage door installation isn’t a simple handyman job. Your installer needs to understand load-bearing mechanics, electrical systems, safety protocols, and more. Here’s what separates the professionals from the rest:

Look beyond the licence

In Australia, garage door installers need more than just a builder’s licence. Ask about their specific training with your chosen door brand.

Major manufacturers like B&D and Merlin run certification programmes for installers (in the former’s case, their programme includes the 10120 Certificate for Construction I). These certifications mean your installer understands the latest safety features and installation techniques.

Understanding insurance coverage

Your installer should carry both public liability and professional indemnity insurance. Public liability covers accidents during installation, while professional indemnity protects against installation errors that might cause problems later. Ask about their coverage limits as well.

Check their track record with motors

Your installer should be qualified for electrical work or partner with a licensed electrician. They should also know multiple motor brands and be able to explain why certain motors work better for different door weights and usage patterns. 

The right installer will assess your specific usage needs, considering factors like door weight, daily opening frequency, and noise sensitivity, to recommend motors with appropriate torque, speed, and backup battery capabilities.

Warranty know-how matters

Professional installers offer separate warranties for parts and labour. They should explain your warranty terms in detail, including:

• What voids your warranty?
• Who handles warranty claims?
• Does your warranty transfer if you sell your house?
• Which parts have different warranty periods?

The best installers also provide ongoing support after installation. They’ll show you how to maintain your door and what warning signs to watch for. Some even offer annual maintenance packages to keep your warranty valid.

What’s in the quote?

A proper quote from your garage door installer should detail everything. Here’s what to discuss:

• Materials breakdown: Different materials affect both price and durability
• Labour charges: Installation times vary by door type, see the table above
• Disposal costs: Old door removal and disposal fees
• Electrical work: Costs for automating your door
• Additional hardware: Tracks, springs, and mounting brackets
• Warranty coverage: Both product and installation guarantees

Get at least three detailed quotes, but make sure they’re comparable.

What to ask your garage door installer

Ask these questions before you begin:

• Does the quote include all electrical work?
• What brand of motor and hardware will they use?
• Are council permits included in the price?
• How long will the installation take?
• What happens if they find issues during installation?

Consider these cost-saving strategies when planning your garage door installation:

• Timing is everything: Most installers offer winter discounts when business slows down, and many suppliers slash prices on last year’s models during end-of-financial-year sales. These older models work just as well as the latest versions—you’re just paying less for them.
• Mind your door type: Single-panel doors win the budget race. Meanwhile, sectional garage door costs are often found in the higher range due to their complexity. If you’re replacing an old single panel, sticking with the same style lets you reuse existing hardware, saving on labour costs. Planning to automate later? Get the wiring installed during initial setup—it’s much cheaper than adding it afterwards.
• Climate concerns: Basic doors work fine in mild weather, but Queensland’s heat or Tasmania’s cold might make insulated panels worth the extra cost. This is particularly important if you’re using your garage as a usable space by replacing heavy-duty garage flooring with cosier, homier options. North-facing garages need UV-resistant finishes, while south-facing ones often don’t.
• Think long-term: While timber doors look stunning, garage doors with woodgrain finishes give you the same look with lower maintenance costs. Some homeowners even mix materials—using steel for the main door with timber trim for style—getting the best of both worlds without the premium price tag.

Making your garage door investment count

A garage door is a significant investment in your home’s functionality and value. While it might be tempting to opt for the lowest-cost option, considering long-term durability and performance often provides better value.

Ready to upgrade your garage door? Contact expert garage door installers for a quote and discover how modern insulation, enhanced security, and improved reliability can deliver long-term savings on your energy bills and maintenance costs. Your home deserves nothing less than quality that lasts.