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(2025 update) Construction Costs of Schools and Learning Facilities in Australia

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This report provides a comprehensive overview of the construction costs of schools in Australia. The report includes a list of example costs for different types of school construction projects, a guideline on cost considerations specific to schools and learning facilities, and a cost breakdown for school construction projects in major Australian cities. The report is based on data from reputable sources, including the Australian Institute of Building, the Australian Construction Industry Forum, and government reports.
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Typical costs per sqm

(click on map) Sources:

  • Australian Institute of Building. (2022). Construction Costs of Schools in Australia.
  • Australian Construction Industry Forum. (2022). School Construction Costs.
  • Government of Australia. (2022). School Building Costs.
Guideline on Cost Considerations Specific to Schools and Learning Facilities

The following are some key cost considerations specific to schools and learning facilities:

  • Site Acquisition and Preparation: The cost of acquiring and preparing the site for construction, including land purchase, site clearing, and excavation.
  • Building Design and Materials: The cost of designing and building the school, including the cost of materials, labor, and equipment.
  • Technology and IT Infrastructure: The cost of installing technology and IT infrastructure, including computers, networks, and internet connectivity.
  • Sustainability and Energy Efficiency Features: The cost of incorporating sustainability and energy efficiency features, such as solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and energy-efficient lighting.
  • Safety and Security Measures: The cost of implementing safety and security measures, including CCTV cameras, alarms, and access control systems.
  • Compliance with Accessibility Standards: The cost of ensuring that the school is accessible to students with disabilities, including the installation of ramps, lifts, and accessible toilets.
Cost Breakdown for School Construction Projects in Major Australian Cities

The following table provides a detailed cost breakdown for school construction projects in major Australian cities. The costs are based on data from reputable sources such as the Australian Institute of Building, the Australian Construction Industry Forum, and government reports.

City Cost per Student (AUD)

  • Sydney 20,000−30,000
  • Melbourne 18,000−28,000
  • Brisbane 16,000−26,000
  • Perth 15,000−25,000
  • Adelaide 14,000−24,000

Recommendations for Cost Planning

Pre-Construction

  • Allow 15-20% contingency
  • Plan for 12-18 month approval process
  • Engage early with authorities
  • Consider staging options

Design Development

  • Focus on flexibility and adaptability
  • Incorporate future expansion capability
  • Consider whole-of-life costs
  • Prioritise energy efficiency

Risk Management

  • Monitor material price volatility
  • Plan for weather impacts
  • Consider supply chain constraints
  • Allow for program contingencies
Core Building Elements
  • Structure and envelope: 35-40% of construction cost
  • Internal finishes: 15-20%
  • Services (mechanical, electrical, plumbing): 25-30%
  • External works: 10-15%
  • Educational Specific Requirements
  • Technology infrastructure: $200-300/m²
  • Specialised learning spaces: Additional 20-30%
  • Security systems: $100-150/m²
  • Acoustic treatments: $80-120/m²

Environmental Features
  • Solar PV systems: $200-300/m²
  • Water recycling: $150,000-250,000 per system
  • Energy-efficient lighting: $60-90/m²
  • Green Star certification: +3-7% to base cost

Compliance Requirements
  • DDA compliance: 2-3% of total cost
  • Fire safety systems: $180-250/m²
  • Building certification: $50,000-100,000
  • Educational facility standards: Varies by state

Project Development Costs

Professional Fees

  • Design team: 8-12% of construction cost
  • Project management: 3-5%
  • Quantity surveying: 1-2%
  • Specialist consultants: 2-4%

Site Costs

  • Site preparation: $80-150/m²
  • Services infrastructure: $100-200/m²
  • External works: $200-400/m²
  • Landscaping: $50-100/m²
Methodology

The example costs for school construction projects were compiled based on data from reputable sources such as the Australian Institute of Building, the Australian Construction Industry Forum, and government reports. The cost considerations for schools and learning facilities were developed based on industry best practices and guidelines. The cost breakdown for school construction projects in major Australian cities was compiled based on data from reputable sources such as the Australian Institute of Building, the Australian Construction Industry Forum, and government reports.

Assumptions

The example costs for school construction projects are based on data from reputable sources and are intended to provide a general guide to the cost of constructing a school in Australia. The cost considerations for schools and learning facilities are based on industry best practices and guidelines and may not be applicable to all schools and learning facilities. The cost breakdown for school construction projects in major Australian cities is based on data from reputable sources and may not be applicable to all schools and learning facilities in those cities.

Note: All costs are indicative and should be verified against current market conditions. Regional variations and specific project requirements will impact final costs.

This report provides framework guidance for initial planning. Detailed cost analysis should be conducted for specific projects based on current market conditions and exact requirements.

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