Concreting a standard single-vehicle driveway in Melbourne typically estimates between $3,500 and $7,000 for plain concrete, and $5,000 to $10,000+ for decorative finishes like exposed aggregate. What moves that number is almost never the concrete itself — it’s the site preparation, base depth, and finish type.
Understanding the concreting of a slab
A concrete driveway is a slab — concrete poured over a prepared base and allowed to cure. The finished surface is only as good as what happens before the first truck arrives: excavation to the right depth, proper compaction of the sub-base, correct formwork, and adequate reinforcement.
For a standard residential driveway in Melbourne, the slab is typically 100mm thick for light vehicle use on a compacted crushed rock base of 75–100mm. Driveways expected to carry heavier vehicles should be 125mm.
Concrete finishes — what your options actually are
Plain concrete — broom finish: The entry point. Textured for grip, functional, low cost. Estimated $3,500–$6,000 for a standard single driveway.
Exposed aggregate: Decorative stone revealed by washing back the surface while wet. Looks significantly better than plain concrete, highly slip-resistant, hides oil stains well. The most popular driveway finish in Melbourne’s west. Estimated $5,000–$9,000.
Coloured concrete: Oxide pigment mixed in or applied as a surface hardener. Estimated $4,500–$8,000.
Stencilled/stamped concrete: Pattern pressed into the surface to mimic pavers or stone. Higher maintenance — sealant needs reapplication every few years. Estimated $6,000–$12,000+.
What actually moves the cost
Base preparation. If the ground is soft, heavily sloped, or has poor drainage, more excavation and compaction is needed. Clay soils — common across Melbourne’s west — often require additional work.
Existing driveway removal. Breaking up and removing old concrete or asphalt: $800–$2,500 depending on size.
Drainage. Water needs to drain away from the slab and house. Some sites need channel drains or agricultural pipe — add $500–$2,000.
Reinforcement. Standard driveways use SL72 or SL82 mesh. Heavy-load driveways may need bar reinforcement.
Access. If a concrete truck can’t get close, a pump is required — add $500–$1,500.
Do I need a permit to concrete my driveway?
For a standard residential driveway in Victoria, a building permit is not typically required. However, if the driveway crosses a council nature strip or kerb, you’ll need a vehicle crossing permit from your local council.
Before starting any driveway works in Melbourne, check with your local council about vehicle crossing requirements.
What to check before you sign a quote
Base specification: ask what depth the sub-base will be compacted to and what material is used. Vague answers here are a red flag.
Reinforcement type: SL72 mesh minimum for a vehicle driveway.
Drainage plan: where does water go? A quote that doesn’t mention drainage hasn’t thought about it.
Indicative costs summary
| Type | Estimated range |
|---|---|
| Plain concrete (broom finish) | $3,500–$6,000 |
| Exposed aggregate | $5,000–$9,000 |
| Coloured concrete | $4,500–$8,000 |
| Stencilled/stamped concrete | $6,000–$12,000+ |
Note: All estimates are indicative only, based on typical projects in the Melbourne metropolitan area. Actual costs vary depending on site conditions, materials, project scope, access, and other factors. Contact Naxan Renovations for an accurate quote tailored to your job.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does a concrete driveway last in Melbourne?
A properly prepared concrete driveway should last 30+ years. Cracking almost always traces back to poor base preparation or inadequate drainage — not the concrete itself.
What is the most popular driveway finish in Melbourne?
Exposed aggregate is the most commonly requested decorative finish across Melbourne’s western suburbs — it looks significantly better than plain concrete and holds up well in our climate.
Can I drive on fresh concrete?
No. Wait a minimum of seven days before vehicle traffic. Full structural strength takes 28 days.
What causes concrete driveways to crack?
Nine times out of ten it’s inadequate base preparation — soil that wasn’t compacted properly, insufficient sub-base depth, or poor drainage underneath the slab.
Do I need a permit to concrete my driveway in Victoria?
A building permit is not typically required for a standard residential driveway. However, a vehicle crossing permit from your local council is usually needed if the driveway crosses a nature strip or kerb.
Which suburbs does Naxan Renovations service for concreting?
We service Truganina, Wyndham Vale, Point Cook, Hoppers Crossing, Werribee, Tarneit, Altona, and surrounding Melbourne western suburbs.
A concrete driveway done properly is one of those things you genuinely don’t think about again for decades. Done cheaply, it’s something you look at every time you pull in.
Book a Free Consultation
We cover Truganina, Wyndham Vale, Point Cook, Hoppers Crossing, Werribee, and surrounding suburbs. Give us a call for a free on-site quote.
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