How much does a shop fitout cost?
Commercial fitouts in Australia typically cost $700–$2,200 per m², so a small retail or café space usually lands between $60,000 and $150,000.
Typical price band
$90,000typical
standard job $60k–$150k
$15,000 low$350,000 high
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Real-world examples
Basic refresh$15,000 – $55,000
Full retail fitout$60,000 – $150,000
Café / hospitality fitout$130,000 – $350,000
What affects the price
— Floor area. Per-m² pricing means the tenancy size is the base of every fitout budget.
— Sector. Hospitality costs the most per m² due to kitchens, extraction and hygiene compliance; office the least.
— Shell condition. A cold shell without services, ceilings or amenities can add 30–50% over a warm shell.
— Joinery & finishes level. Custom joinery, stone counters and feature ceilings are where fitout budgets stretch.
— Approvals & compliance. Landlord approvals, DA/CDC requirements, accessibility and fire compliance add cost and time.
Tips before you post
— Negotiate a fitout contribution from the landlord before signing the lease — it's standard in retail leasing.
— Lock the design before work starts; mid-fitout changes are the most expensive changes in construction.
— Ask who holds responsibility for compliance certificates (occupation, food registration, fire) at handover.
Beyond the price: Planning a shop fitout: briefing a shopfitter without blowing the budget
Read the guide →Other costs in this category
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Indicative range only, not a quote. Get quotes from local tradies for an exact price. Last updated 13 July 2026.
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