Cost of an Electrician in Melbourne (2025 Price Guide)
Licensed electricians in Melbourne charge $90–$150 per hour. Powerpoint installation runs $120–$300. Switchboard upgrades cost $1,200–$3,500. EV charger installation averages $900–$2,200.
All electrical work in Victoria must be performed by a Registered Electrical Contractor (REC) licensed by Energy Safe Victoria (ESV). After completing prescribed electrical work, the electrician must issue a Certificate of Electrical Safety (CES) — by law, it's the homeowner's proof the installation is safe and compliant.
Electrical Costs in Melbourne
| Service | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Hourly rate (business hours) | $90 | $150 |
| Powerpoint or switch installation | $120 | $300 |
| Switchboard upgrade | $1,200 | $3,500 |
| Safety switch (RCD) install | $200 | $500 |
| EV charger (Type 2, 7kW) installation | $900 | $2,200 |
| Hardwired smoke alarm install | $120 | $300 |
| Full house rewire | $8,000 | $22,000 |
All prices are approximate estimates in Australian dollars (AUD) for the Melbourne metropolitan area. Always get written quotes before committing.
Licensing & Insurance in Victoria
Electricians in Victoria must hold an ESV-issued Electrical Worker's Licence (EW) and the business must be a Registered Electrical Contractor (REC). After any prescribed electrical work, the contractor must issue a Certificate of Electrical Safety — non-prescribed work also requires one in many cases. The CES is your proof the work is safe and meets AS/NZS 3000. Never accept work without it. Verify the licence on the ESV register before engaging anyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does an electrician charge per hour in Melbourne?
- Licensed electricians in Melbourne charge $90–$150 per hour. Most have a minimum charge of one hour. After-hours emergency rates are higher — budget $150–$250 for the callout fee on top of labour.
- Do I need a Certificate of Electrical Safety (CES)?
- Yes — for prescribed work, it is mandatory under the Electricity Safety Act 1998. The contractor must lodge it with ESV and provide you a copy within 31 days. The CES is required when selling the property and protects you under home insurance.
- How much does an EV charger installation cost in Melbourne?
- A Type 2 (7kW) EV charger in Melbourne costs $900–$2,200 installed, including the dedicated circuit and Certificate of Electrical Safety. Cost rises if your switchboard needs upgrading at the same time.
- How do I verify an electrician's licence in Victoria?
- Use the Energy Safe Victoria 'Check a Licence' lookup at esv.vic.gov.au. Enter the licence number, name, or REC number to confirm the contractor is licensed and current. Disciplinary history is also visible.
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