How Much Does a Concrete Driveway Cost?

A concrete driveway costs between $3,500 to $5,500. The final price depends on size, site access, thickness, and the finish you choose. A basic slab might cost less, but extras like colour, texture, or commercial concrete options such as exposed aggregate will increase the total.

In this guide, you’ll get clear pricing per square metre, a breakdown of all cost factors, and side-by-side comparisons of popular finishes. We’ll cover what affects the total price and outline typical charges in Melbourne.

Here are the average concrete driveway costs per square metre:

• Plain concrete: $100 – $150 per m²
• Coloured concrete: $110 – $160 per m²
• Exposed aggregate: $140 – $220 per m²
• Stamped concrete: $180 – $300 per m²

Curious to know more about how much does concrete cost and what affects the price? Read our other blog for more details.

The factors that influence concrete driveway cost are the size, site conditions, concrete type, accessibility, and slab thickness.

Larger driveways require more concrete, steel, and labour, increasing the total cost. Shape also plays a role—curved or sloped layouts cost more than simple rectangular slabs. For example, a 30m² straight driveway is cheaper to form and pour than the same size with turning space or multiple access points.

Uneven ground, clay soil, or existing landscaping all increase preparation time. Clearing vegetation, removing old slabs, or fixing drainage can add hundreds to the job. A flat, clean site saves time and keeps costs within the lower range.

Plain concrete is the cheapest finish at $100 to $150 per m². Coloured concrete starts around $110 per m², while exposed aggregate or stencilled designs can reach $300 per m². Each upgrade adds materials, labour, and finishing time.

Tight access can require more manual labour or smaller equipment. Sites without room for a truck or pump increase time and complexity. More handling = more hours = more cost.

Most driveways are poured at 100mm thickness, but 125mm is needed for heavier loads. Thicker slabs need more concrete and curing time. Steel mesh or rebar also adds cost but improves long-term strength.

Below are the types of concrete finishes and their costs:

Plain concrete costs between $3,500 to $5,500. It’s the most affordable option, offering a clean, smooth surface with minimal fuss. Ideal for functional driveways on flat blocks, plain concrete suits most homes without driving up costs.

Coloured concrete costs between $6,500 to $9,500. Oxides are mixed into the concrete before pouring, producing a consistent tint throughout the slab. This finish adds visual appeal without the price of decorative textures or patterns.

Exposed aggregate costs between $5,500 to $7,500. Stones and pebbles are revealed at the surface using a special wash-off method. It offers a textured look that’s skid-resistant, durable, and popular for sloped or landscaped properties.

Stamped or stencilled concrete costs between $5,500 to $7,500. These finishes imitate brick, stone, or tile patterns through surface imprinting or stencil masking. They involve extra labour but create a premium look without using actual pavers.

The cost of a concrete driveway in Melbourne ranges between $3,500 and $5,500, depending on size, finish, and site conditions.

Here are the average concrete driveway costs per square metre in Melbourne:

• Plain concrete: $100 – $150 per m²
• Coloured concrete: $110 – $160 per m²
• Exposed aggregate: $140 – $220 per m²
• Stamped concrete: $180 – $300 per m²

If your concrete driveway project involves modifying the footpath, kerb, or council land, a permit is likely required. Permit fees vary by council in Melbourne:

• Bayside City Council: Vehicle crossing permit application fee is $344.
• City of Port Phillip: Permanent vehicle crossing application fee is $290, with an additional permit fee of $205 and a refundable bond of $1,800.
• City of Kingston: Vehicle crossing permit fee is $250.

These fees are subject to change and may vary based on specific project requirements. It’s advisable to consult your local council for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Here are the ways to save on your concrete driveway cost:

Plain concrete is the most budget-friendly choice, costing $100 to $150 per m². Decorative options like exposed aggregate or stamped finishes cost $140 to $220 and $180 to $300 per m², respectively. If visual appeal isn’t your top priority, sticking with standard finishes is one of the simplest ways to reduce costs.

Removing vegetation, levelling soil, or clearing debris before contractors arrive can reduce labour time. If the site is ready for excavation or formwork, you’ll avoid extra preparation fees. Always confirm with your concreter what prep work is acceptable so it doesn’t affect your warranty or finished result.

Concreters are busiest in spring and early summer. Booking between May and August often leads to faster turnaround and more competitive quotes. Some contractors offer better rates during these months to keep crews active, especially on smaller jobs like residential driveways.