How Much Does Aluminium Picket Fencing Cost per Metre in Melbourne? [2025 Local Pricing Guide]

If you’ve been driving through leafy Melbourne suburbs like Brighton, Toorak, or Fitzroy, you’ve probably admired those crisp, low-maintenance aluminium picket fences that add instant street appeal to homes. They look great, last forever, and—let’s be honest—make the neighbours just a little bit jealous.

But here’s the question on every homeowner’s mind: “How much does aluminium picket fencing cost per metre in Melbourne?”

If you just want the fast answer: Expect to pay between $200 and $400 per metre for a fully installed aluminium picket fence in Melbourne.

If you’re willing to stick around, I’ll break down why the range is so wide, where your money goes, and how to get the best price without cutting corners—all tailored to Melbourne’s market.

What Is the Typical Aluminium Picket Fencing Cost in Melbourne (2025)?

1. Aluminium Picket Fence Price Per Metre — 2025 Estimates

To begin, here are rough benchmark figures (materials + installation) currently seen across Melbourne:

• Some suppliers offer installation for ≈ $100 per metre for vertical blade or slat aluminium picket styles.

• More generally, aluminium fencing (nationwide averages) is quoted at $65 to $110 per metre for standard installations. hipages.com.au

• RealEstate.com.au suggests aluminium fence costs in Australia lie between $80 and $200 per metre, depending on height, finish, and complexity.

Given Melbourne’s labour and supply conditions, a realistic ballpark for a straightforward aluminium picket fence may fall in the $110 to $180 per metre range — but expect quotes to fluctuate above or below depending on specifics (site, design, suburb).

What “Cost of Aluminium Picket Fence Melbourne” Includes

A full quote for your project should typically cover:

• Supply of aluminium picket panels, rails, posts, brackets

• Powder coating or finish

• Foundations & footings (concrete, drainage)

• Labour (erecting panels, cutting, fastening)

• Site preparation (clearing vegetation, minor grading)

• Removal & disposal of old fence (if required)

• Gate(s), hardware, locks

• Touch-up coating or finishing

• Permit / survey / compliance costs (if needed)

If a quote excludes any of the above, it should be clearly stated — you don’t want surprises later.

Quick Cost Breakdown for Melbourne (2025)

In Melbourne, aluminium picket fencing costs about $200–$400 per metre installed, or $90–$150/m for DIY kits. Pricing depends on height, style, colour, gates, and site conditions.

Why Aluminium Picket Fencing is Huge in Melbourne Right Now

If you live anywhere from Port Melbourne to Ivanhoe, you’ve probably noticed more aluminium picket fences replacing timber. Here’s why:

1. Zero Rot, Zero Rust – Melbourne’s unpredictable weather can be brutal on timber and steel. Aluminium won’t warp, rot, or rust—even in coastal areas like St Kilda or Williamstown.

2. Low Maintenance – No sanding, no repainting every few years. Just a hose-down when it’s dusty.

3. Style Flexibility – From ultra-modern flat-top designs in Docklands to heritage scalloped tops in Carlton North, aluminium can suit any architectural style.

4. Lightweight but Strong – Easy to work with, yet sturdy enough to last decades.

Factors That Influence Aluminium Picket Fencing Cost Per Metre in Melbourne

1. Height

• 900mm: Cheapest option—great for decorative front fences in Brunswick or Collingwood.

• 1200–1500mm: Most popular height for Melbourne residential frontages.

• 1800mm+: More privacy, more material, more cost.

2. Design Complexity

• Flat-top = most affordable.

• Spear-top or heritage scallops = more fabrication time.

• Decorative patterns for heritage homes in Parkville can add $30–$50/m.

3. Powder-Coating & Colour Choice

• Standard Dulux/Interpon colours are included in most quotes.

• Custom shades (e.g., to match heritage paintwork in East Melbourne) can add $20–$40/m.

4. Gates

• Pedestrian gate: $350–$650.

• Driveway gate: $1,200+ (manual) or $2,500+ (automated).

5. Site Conditions

• Sloped blocks in Eltham = stepped or raked panels = higher cost.

• Tight access laneways in Fitzroy = more labour time.

Before choosing between slat or picket styles, review the overall aluminium fencing cost comparison to understand value for money.

Comparative Costs — Aluminium Picket vs Other Fencing Options

When someone asks “how much does aluminium picket fencing cost Melbourne?”, it’s smart to see it in contrast with alternatives.

Aluminium vs Timber Picket / Paling Fencing

• Timber is cheaper upfront, but needs regular maintenance (staining, sealing, rot repair).

• Aluminium offers longevity and lower maintenance in a “lifetime cost” sense.

• Timber picket fences in Melbourne often start around $180 per metre for simpler builds (basic, unpainted) according to some local fencing contractors.

Aluminium vs Colorbond / Steel

• Colorbond fences tend to cost less per metre than decorative aluminium pickets in many cases, especially for solid privacy panels.

• Steel decorative fences with scrollwork may exceed aluminium costs due to heavier weight, welding, and rust prevention.

• Aluminium, being lightweight and corrosion-resistant, offers a good middle ground.

Value Over Time

Although aluminium picket fencing may cost more initially, its durable finish, minimal maintenance, and long life often mean lower cost over 15–25+ years compared to timber or painted steel.

You can compare aluminium, timber, and Colorbond fencing prices in our main fencing cost comparison article.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

DIY (Materials Only)

• Price: $90–$150/m.

• Pros: Lower cost, flexible timing.

• Cons: Requires tools, skills, and patience. Mistakes can be costly to fix.

• Where to Buy in Melbourne: Bunnings Warehouse (Coburg, Hawthorn), Stratco (Mentone), Online Fence Supplies.

Professional Installation

• Price: $200–$400/m.

• Pros: Perfect finish, faster install, warranty included.

• Cons: Higher upfront cost.

• Who to Call: Melbourne fencing specialists like Pentagon Fencing & Gates, serving areas from South Yarra to Mornington Peninsula.

Melbourne-Specific Pricing Insights

Melbourne’s fencing market is shaped by:

• Labour Rates – Higher than some regional areas, averaging $70–$90/hour for qualified installers.

• Council Requirements – Heritage overlays in North Melbourne and South Melbourne may require specific picket profiles, increasing fabrication costs.

• Material Supply – Large distributors in Dandenong South and Campbellfield can offer competitive bulk pricing.

How to Get the Best Aluminium Picket Fence Price in Melbourne

Let’s be honest—aluminium picket fencing isn’t the cheapest upfront investment, but the right approach can shave hundreds (even thousands) off your total bill. Here’s how Melbourne homeowners can keep costs under control without compromising on style or quality.

1. Get at Least Three Quotes

It might sound obvious, but too many people get stuck with the first quote they receive—especially if it’s from a recommended installer.

• Why it matters: Pricing for the exact same fence can vary significantly between suppliers in Balwyn, Essendon, and Caulfield, depending on their overheads, current workload, and supplier relationships.

• Pro tip: Ask each installer to break down materials, labour, gates, and powder-coating costs separately. This makes it easier to compare apples with apples.

• Bonus: Mention you’re getting multiple quotes—this often encourages installers to offer a sharper deal upfront.

2. Book in Off-Peak

Timing your project can have a big impact on the per-metre price.

• Winter Advantage: In Melbourne, the cooler months (May to August) are traditionally quieter for outdoor trades. Installers may offer discounts or faster turnaround just to keep crews busy.

• Rain Concerns: A little drizzle won’t halt aluminium fencing work (unlike timber painting), so winter isn’t the roadblock people think it is.

• Example: A South Yarra homeowner saved nearly $900 by booking a June install rather than waiting until spring.

3. Stick to Standard Colours

Powder-coating is where many budgets quietly blow out.

• Standard Colour Range: Most Melbourne fencing companies include a set of popular Dulux or Interpon shades in the base cost—colours like Monument, Woodland Grey, Surfmist, or Heritage White.

• Custom Colour Surcharge: A special colour to match your front door in Brighton or roof trim in Camberwell might look perfect, but expect an extra $20–$40 per metre. Over a 15–20 metre fence, that’s hundreds extra.

• Cost Saver: If you’re set on a unique colour, ask if it’s possible to match it using an existing in-stock shade—this can bypass custom order fees.

Read more: Top 10 Fencing Colors for Melbourne Homes in 2025 (With Colorbond Inspiration)

4. Bundle Projects for Volume Discounts

Installers love efficiency, and you can use that to your advantage.

• Bundle Benefits: Adding a pedestrian gate, a side fence, or a matching driveway gate in the same job often reduces the per-metre labour rate.

• Example: A homeowner in Brunswick East combined a 12m front fence with a 10m side fence and saved over $600 compared to doing them separately.

• Why It Works: Installers save on travel, setup, and dismantling time, so they’re often willing to pass those savings on.

• Extra Tip: Even neighbours can get in on the deal—two adjoining properties in Kew had their front fences replaced at once and both scored a bulk discount.

Quick Summary: Melbourne Money-Saving Checklist

• Always get at least 3 itemised quotes.

• Consider a winter install for lower demand pricing.

• Choose from the standard colour palette to avoid surcharges.

• Bundle multiple fencing sections or gates into a single project.

Following these tips can easily bring a $6,000 project down by $500–$1,000, without sacrificing the quality or look of your new fence.

Maintenance & Longevity Tips

Even though aluminium is low-maintenance, Melbourne homeowners should:

• Hose down every 3–6 months (more in coastal suburbs).

• Inspect gate hinges annually.

• Touch up powder-coat chips quickly to avoid long-term wear.

FAQs – Aluminium Picket Fencing Melbourne

Q: What are the benefits of aluminium picket fencing?

A: Aluminium picket fences are very low maintenance, easy to clean with just a hose-down, and do not peel, dry out, or require repainting. They withstand extreme Australian weather including sun, rain, and wind, providing durability and a classic picket fence look with modern material advantages.

Q: Is aluminium picket fencing suitable for Melbourne’s weather?

A: Yes, aluminium fencing is ideal for the Australian climate and offers long-lasting performance without rust or corrosion issues.

Q: What maintenance is required?

A: Minimal maintenance is needed. Occasionally washing with clean water or mild soap and water (2-3 times per year) is sufficient. Avoid abrasive cleaners or tools that might scratch the powder coating.

Q: Can aluminium picket fences be customized?

A: Yes, they come in a variety of styles and powder-coated colours. Panels can be flat top, picket top, loop top, and more. Custom sizes, arches, scalloping, and picket head options are also available.

Q: How long does an aluminium picket fence last?

A: A well-installed aluminium fence should last over 20-30 years due to its corrosion resistance and durable finishing.

Q: Is professional installation necessary?

A: Some aluminium fencing products are DIY-friendly and easy to install, but professional installation ensures correct placement, compliance with local regulations, and optimal durability.

Q: Are aluminium fences environmentally friendly?

A: Yes, aluminium is 100% recyclable and can be recycled repeatedly without quality loss. It requires less energy to recycle than to produce new aluminium.

Q: Can aluminium fences be installed on slopes?

Yes, installation can be stepped or raked to follow the natural slope of the land for a uniform appearance.

Q: Is aluminium picket fencing suitable for heritage homes?

A: Absolutely—especially in Carlton, Parkville, and East Melbourne. Profiles can be matched to timber designs.

Q: Can it handle Melbourne’s weather extremes?

A: Yes. Aluminium resists rust, warping, and UV damage, making it ideal for both coastal and inland suburbs.

Q: What’s the cheapest way to get aluminium picket fencing in Melbourne?

A: DIY kits from major suppliers, but factor in the value of your time and potential rework costs.

Final Word

If you’re in Melbourne and want a fence that nails the balance between style, longevity, and minimal maintenance, aluminium picket fencing is a smart investment.

Budget $200–$400 per metre installed, more if you want premium designs, custom colours, or automated gates.

And remember: whether you’re in St Kilda, South Yarra, or Brighton, always get multiple quotes and check past work before signing anything.

Get a free quote today from Pentagon Fencing & Gates—servicing all of Melbourne, from Mornington Peninsula to Sunbury. Whether it’s a sleek modern frontage in Docklands or a heritage replica in Fitzroy, we’ve got you covered.