ElectriciansUpdated March 2026 · 2 min read

How to Quote Electrical Work in Australia

Guide for electricians on how to quote residential and commercial electrical jobs. Covers pricing strategies, material costs, compliance, and common electrical quoting mistakes.

Electrical Quoting Fundamentals

Electrical quotes should itemise: materials (cable, switches, GPOs, lights, breakers), labour (by the hour or fixed price per task), compliance testing and certificates, and any access requirements (roof space, under-floor, cherry picker). Always specify the brand and model of major items like switchboards, RCDs, and light fittings.

Pricing Strategies for Electricians

Common approaches: hourly rate ($80–$120/hour + materials), per-point pricing ($100–$200 per power or light point), or fixed-price packages for standard jobs. For larger jobs, fixed-price quotes win more work because customers know the total upfront. Always include a clause for additional work discovered during the job.

Common Electrical Job Costs in 2026

Switchboard upgrade: $1,500–$4,000. Power point installation: $150–$250 per point. Downlight installation: $80–$150 per light. Safety switch installation: $200–$350. Ceiling fan installation: $200–$400. EV charger installation: $1,500–$3,500. These are installed prices including materials and labour.

Compliance and Certificates

All electrical work in Australia must be performed by a licensed electrician and comply with AS/NZS 3000 (Wiring Rules). Include the cost of compliance testing and issuing a Certificate of Compliance (CCEW) in every quote. For switchboard upgrades, you'll also need to notify the DNSP (Distribution Network Service Provider).

Electrical Quoting Mistakes

1. Not inspecting the existing wiring before quoting. 2. Underestimating cable runs through difficult access areas. 3. Forgetting compliance testing and certificate costs. 4. Not factoring in switchboard capacity for new circuits. 5. Quoting per-point without checking the switchboard first.