How Much Does an Electrician Cost Per Hour?
With electricity use being a pervasive aspect of everyday living, it’s not at all unusual to find oneself needing the services of an electrician at one time or another. After all, homes, shops, offices, and other businesses need electricity to power appliances, electronic devices, and equipment.
But before getting an electrician, a fundamental concern would be: How much does an electrician cost per hour? The short answer here is that electrician rates can vary greatly.
Hiring an electrician in Australia isn’t as simple as picking a number off a price list. There’s no uniform fee.
But to give you a fair idea, electrician rates in Australia typically range between AUD 70 and 140 per hour, but costs can be higher for emergency call-outs or complex jobs. Also, electricians often charge a minimum call-out fee, which covers the first hour of work. This amount can range from AUD 50 to 100. Some electricians may also charge additional travel fees, particularly when the customer is located in a rural area or in an address that’s out of the way (i.e., remote).
There are a lot of other factors that can influence the hourly rate an electrician would charge. The type of work required is one example. Standard domestic or residential jobs like installing power points or ceiling fans usually cost less, while more technical jobs such as switchboard upgrades or home automation installations tend to be pricier.
If you’re hiring an electrician to work on a larger project, such as a home renovation or a new build, they may quote a fixed price rather than ask for an hourly rate. This practice helps customers calculate a more accurate budget, especially for long-term projects where costs can add up as the project progresses.
Table Of Contents
➜ Understanding Electrician Hourly Rates
➜ Electrician Hourly Rates in Different Cities
➜ Key Factors to Consider
➜ Pricing Breakdown by Service
➜ Specialist Electrician Rates
➜ Emergency Electrician Hourly Rates
➜ Commercial Electrician Hourly Rates
➜ Electrician Call-Out Fees
➜ Electrician Salaries & Pay Rates
➜ Additional Tips
Understanding Electrician Hourly Rates
An electrician’s hourly rate encompasses the amount charged for one hour of electrical work, covering labour and sometimes the basic materials used in doing the job. However, this rate doesn’t always include additional costs such as call-out fees, specialised equipment, or permit charges.
Compared to other trade professionals or tradies, electricians typically charge higher hourly rates because of the specialised skills and licensing requirements involved.
To illustrate how electricians’ hourly rates compare with those of other trades, check out the table below:
Comparison With Other Trades
A handyman’s hourly rate is generally lower, priced at around AUD 40 to 90 per hour, and they cannot perform electrical work legally. Plumbers, who also require licensing and extensive training to do their job, have comparable rates to electricians, typically ranging from AUD 80 to 200 per hour. Removalists, whose work is labour-intensive (i.e., lifting and moving items, packing, etc.) but does not require technical expertise, may charge AUD 75 to 120 per hour.
Painting and carpentry jobs involve skilled work, and professionals in these trades also need certifications and licences. However, some jobs they handle can be incredibly simple, so they may charge lower rates for those.
Electrician Hourly Rates in Different Cities
The national average for an electrician’s hourly rate ranges between AUD 70 and 140 per hour. However, you might encounter differences in the actual cost of electrician services based on other factors like demand and the cost of living in your city. For example, Sydney and Melbourne are known to have higher rates for almost everything.
Here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect to pay an electrician for their services across major Australian cities:
Perth electricians typically charge between AUD 90 and 115 per hour, although pricing variations are expected depending on demand and the type of electrical work that needs to be done.
Electrician rates in Sydney tend to be among the highest due to the city’s high cost of living. Expect to pay between AUD 90 and 130 per hour; emergency call-outs often exceed AUD 200 per hour.
Electricians in Melbourne typically charge between AUD 85 and 150 per hour, depending on the type of work required. Industrial jobs and complex residential electrical work could mean higher rates.
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The slightly lower cost of living in Brisbane means more affordable electrician hourly rates ranging from AUD 75 to 110 per hour. Electrical work in regional or remote areas (away from the city) may come with additional travel fees.
The demand for skilled trades in the ACT could mean that electricians charge more—anywhere between AUD 90 and 155 per hour. Government projects and commercial work often mean higher prices, well beyond general or average rates.
Electricians here typically charge between AUD 80 and 100 per hour, with the majority of services involving solar power system installations and upgrades.
Perth electricians typically charge between AUD 90 and 115 per hour, although pricing variations are expected depending on demand and the type of electrical work that needs to be done.
Electrician rates in Sydney tend to be among the highest due to the city’s high cost of living. Expect to pay between AUD 90 and 130 per hour; emergency call-outs often exceed AUD 200 per hour.
Electricians in Melbourne typically charge between AUD 85 and 150 per hour, depending on the type of work required. Industrial jobs and complex residential electrical work could mean higher rates.
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The slightly lower cost of living in Brisbane means more affordable electrician hourly rates ranging from AUD 75 to 110 per hour. Electrical work in regional or remote areas (away from the city) may come with additional travel fees.
The demand for skilled trades in the ACT could mean that electricians charge more—anywhere between AUD 90 and 155 per hour. Government projects and commercial work often mean higher prices, well beyond general or average rates.
Electricians here typically charge between AUD 80 and 100 per hour, with the majority of services involving solar power system installations and upgrades.
Remember that these figures only reflect general industry trends. We recommend that you ask for a detailed quote to get a fair idea of the total costs you might incur for your project.
Factors That Impact Electrician Rates
As mentioned previously, several factors can influence electrician rates in Australia. In this section, you’ll find information that’ll give you a better grasp of these factors so you can budget accordingly.
- Experience and Certification Level: Apprentice electricians typically charge lower rates since they are still in training; licensed electricians command higher fees since they possess formal qualifications or certifications and an established track record. Master electricians have extensive industry experience and additional certifications, so they generally charge more.
- Type of Work: Residential jobs, such as installing a power point or fixing a light fixture, are usually more affordable; understandably, commercial and industrial electrical work would be more expensive. Emergency repairs may be pricier because of the urgent nature of such jobs.
- Location and Demand: In places known for higher living costs (such as major cities like Sydney and Melbourne) and where electricians are in huge demand, higher fees are expected. In contrast, electricians in regional and rural areas may ask for lower rates, although they may also charge extra for travel fees.
- Call-Out Fees and After-Hours Work: Many electricians charge a call-out fee. This covers expenses related to traveling to the customer’s address and the initial job assessment. Emergency call-outs can increase rates by 50% or more. Fees can also increase significantly when customers need electrical services after-hours, on weekends, or during public holidays.
- Material and Equipment Costs: The price of electrical components, such as wiring, switchboards, and circuit breakers, can affect the total cost, and these are charged separately. Some jobs also require the use of specialised tools or safety equipment, which may increase the final bill.
- Complexity of the Job: Simple repairs (e.g., fixing a short circuit) or installations are basic jobs at the lower end of the price spectrum. Complex projects like rewiring a home or installing a smart home automation system come with higher fees.
- Scope of the Project: Large-scale electrical work, such as power pole replacement or installing a commercial electrical system, and specialised services (e.g., data cabling, solar panel installation) often involve higher hourly rates or a fixed project fee.
- Access to the Job Site: If the site of the electrical work is difficult to access (e.g., working in tight spaces or dealing with outdated wiring), additional labour charges may apply.
Electrician Costs and Pricing Breakdown by Service
Electricians use different pricing models depending on the nature of the work. Some jobs are charged per hour, while others have a fixed rate.
For minor repairs, an hourly rate is standard. But, how much should an electrician charge per hour? Again, this would depend on the job and the provider. For larger projects, electricians may provide an upfront quote instead.
Power Point Installation Cost
Installing a standard power point can cost between AUD 150 and 250, depending on the location and wiring requirements.
Lighting Installation Cost
Basic light fittings range from AUD 70 to 150 per fixture, while more complex installations, such as downlights or chandeliers, can exceed AUD 250 per unit.
Appliance Installation Cost
Installing an oven, cooktop, or air conditioner can cost anywhere from AUD 100 to 600, with additional charges for wiring modifications.
Costs vary between AUD 150 and 350 per fan, depending on the project complexity and ceiling height.
Security Camera Installation Cost
A basic security camera system costs between AUD 200 and 500 per camera; higher fees may be charged for complex systems.
EV Charger Installation Cost
Installing a home EV charger ranges between AUD 1,000 and 2,500, depending on the power requirements and wiring upgrades needed.
Switchboard Upgrade Cost
Upgrading an outdated switchboard to a modern safety switch system costs between AUD 900 and 2,000, depending on how complex the upgrade work turns out to be.
The cost to rewire a house in Australia typically ranges from AUD 3,000 to 12,000, depending on the home's size, age, accessibility, and specific electrical requirements
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Hourly Rates of Specialist Electricians
Specialist electricians typically handle more complex and technical tasks, which require advanced skills, certifications, and strict compliance with safety standards. As a result, their hourly rates tend to be higher than those of general residential electricians. The cost can vary depending on the type of work, urgency, and location. Below is a breakdown of what you can expect to pay for different types of specialist electrical services.
Across Australia, specialist electrician rates typically range between AUD 100 and 180 per hour, depending on the state and job specifics. They may also charge extra for specialised tasks.
What do Specialist Electricians Do?
(Level 2 Electrician in NSW and Equivalent in Other States)
A Level 2 electrician handles complex electrical work. These jobs include metering, installing overhead and underground connections, and disconnection or reconnection services.
The concept of a Level 2 electrician is most commonly associated with the Accredited Service Provider (ASP) scheme in New South Wales. This classification does not exist formally in other Australian states, although these may have equivalent roles based on the services provided.
Below is some information on similar or equivalent electrician roles across other Australian states:
Equivalent in Other States
Level 2 electricians (and their equivalent across states) charge higher rates due to their advanced qualifications and the complexity of their work.
Cost for an Emergency Electrician 🚨❗️🆘
Emergency electricians charge a premium because of the urgent nature of the work they are tasked to perform. Expect rates between AUD 150 and 300 per hour, plus applicable after-hours surcharges.
In emergency situations—such as power outages, exposed live wires, burning smells from switchboards, or water-damaged electrical systems—electricians are often called out at short notice, during evenings, weekends, or public holidays. These call-outs usually incur an after-hours fee, which can range from AUD 80 to AUD 200 on top of the hourly rate, depending on the time and day.
Some electricians also apply a minimum charge, such as a two-hour call-out, particularly for jobs during the night or on holidays. For example, a Sunday evening emergency may cost a flat fee of AUD 400 to 600, even if the job itself only takes an hour.
- Common emergency services include:
- Restoring power after a blown fuse or tripped circuit
- Making safe exposed wiring or damaged powerpoints
- Urgent repairs to switchboards or safety switches
- Isolating and fixing electrical faults after a storm or flood
Keep in mind that while the cost is higher, engaging a licensed emergency electrician ensures your home or premises is made safe and compliant quickly—potentially preventing damage, injury, or even fire.
If you're concerned about pricing, it’s worth asking for an estimate over the phone and confirming whether after-hours or call-out fees apply.
Cost for a Commercial Electrician
Commercial electrician rates differ from and tend to be higher than those charged by residential electricians primarily because of project complexity, scale, and the nature of the work they handle.
Residential jobs are relatively simpler and require the use of fewer specialised tools. On the other hand, commercial and industrial electrical work is more intricate and comes with more risks because of the higher power demands.
Commercial electricians must also comply with stricter safety regulations and must have advanced technical skills to handle complex jobs safely and efficiently. The average hourly rate for commercial electricians ranges from AUD 100 to 200.
Examples of commercial electrician jobs include the following:
Small Businesses
Installing energy-efficient lighting systems, wiring for point-of-sale (POS) systems or security cameras, upgrading switchboards.
Average hourly fee: AUD 100 to 130.
Office Spaces
Installing data cabling and network systems, setting up emergency lighting and backup power systems, regular electrical maintenance.
Average hourly fee: AUD 120 to 150.
Industrial Worksites
Installing three-phase power systems for heavy machinery, high-voltage equipment maintenance, implementing electrical safety systems (e.g., circuit breakers, industrial-grade surge protection).
Average hourly fee: AUD 130 to 200.
As with any electrical work, the final cost will depend on the scope, complexity, and urgency of the job—so it's always best to request a detailed quote upfront.
Electrician Call-Out Fees
Earlier, we mentioned the call-out fee and how it can affect electrician rates. This charge is an industry practice. It’s a fixed charge that covers an electrician’s time and travel expenses to assess or begin work at your property, regardless of the actual work performed. It ensures that their time and operational costs are covered. It doesn’t matter if the job is minor or the client only requires an inspection.
Electrician call-out rates usually apply to emergency repairs, small jobs, and initial assessments. However, some electricians may waive this fee if you proceed with a substantial job order or require ongoing work.
In Australia, the average electrician call-out fee ranges between AUD 50 and 150. The final rate will depend on the customer’s location, job urgency, and the electrician’s experience. Emergency call-outs outside regular hours, including nights and weekends, often cost more—sometimes up to AUD 300.
To avoid incurring call-out fees, check first if a phone consultation would be sufficient to resolve your issue. Some electricians offer free quotes via phone or online. This way, they can decide whether the problem necessitates an in-person visit. If you’re hiring an electrician for a larger project, try negotiating the call-out fee into the total job cost.
Electrician Salaries and Pay Rates
How much do electricians make? Salaries and pay rates for electricians in Australia are generally competitive. How much an electrician earns will depend on their experience, location, and job type, as well as the professional credentials or certifications they may hold. High demand and challenging work conditions can also push electrician pay higher.
On average, electricians in Australia can earn annual salaries ranging from AUD 70,000 to 120,000. Entry-level electricians typically start at around AUD 65,000 per year, while highly experienced professionals can earn well over AUD 120,000, especially those into commercial or industrial electrical work.
Self-employed electricians may earn more. However, they also have to manage the additional costs of running a business, such as licensing, insurance, and equipment acquisition.
Location also affects salaries. To illustrate this, here’s an overview of electrician pay rates in some key Australian cities (except for ACT):
Avg. Electrician Salary by City
The minimum wage for an electrician is determined by awards and enterprise agreements. Base rates are set by Fair Work Australia. Entry-level electricians must be paid at least the award rate, but experienced professionals in high-demand industries often receive much higher salaries.
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Safety is paramount when it comes to electrical services, so you need to ensure you make the right choice.
Dynamic Group ticks all the boxes when it comes to compliance, safety, and reliability. Our team is always ready to come to you, whether you need a residential or commercial electrician.
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