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 $50,000 and $200,000.

Typical price band

$90,000typical

$15,000 low$400,000 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

— 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.

— 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.

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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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