Replacing a toilet in Melbourne is one of the more straightforward plumbing jobs — but costs vary depending on the toilet you choose, whether demolition of existing tiles is needed, and your access situation. Here’s what to expect.
Toilet Replacement Cost in Melbourne (2025)
- Basic close-coupled toilet (supply + install + removal of old unit): $600–$950
- Mid-range toilet (supply + install + removal): $900–$1,500
- Wall-hung toilet (supply + install, existing frame): $1,200–$2,000
- Wall-hung toilet (new in-wall cistern frame required): $2,500–$4,000+
- Labour only (customer-supplied toilet): $300–$600
Prices include connection to existing supply and drainage, silicone sealing, and removal and disposal of the old unit. If the floor waste or pan connector needs to be relocated to suit the new toilet’s footprint, add $200–$500 for that work.
What Type of Toilet Should I Choose?
Close-coupled (standard)
The cistern sits directly on the back of the pan. The most common type in Melbourne homes. Easiest to service and repair. Wide range of options from $200 (basic) to $800+ (designer). Most cost-effective to install.
Wall-hung (back-to-wall)
The pan is wall-mounted and the cistern is concealed inside the wall in a frame. More expensive to install but easier to clean, no floor contact from the pan. Popular in renovations. Requires a flush panel in the wall for cistern access.
Back-to-wall (floor-mounted, concealed cistern)
The pan sits on the floor but the cistern is hidden inside cabinetry or the wall. Midpoint between close-coupled and wall-hung in terms of cost and installation complexity.
WELS Rating — Required for Rental Properties
In Victoria, landlords who want to pass water usage costs to tenants must have WELS 3-star rated fixtures throughout the property. Most new toilets sold in Australia meet this requirement — confirm the WELS rating before purchasing if this applies to your property.
When Should I Replace Rather Than Repair?
- The cistern is cracked or the pan has visible cracks
- Parts for the existing toilet are no longer available (common with older European-brand toilets)
- The toilet is over 20 years old and repeatedly requires repairs
- You’re renovating and want a modern aesthetic
- The current toilet doesn’t meet WELS 3-star for rental compliance
Sedcon Plumbing supplies and installs toilets across Melbourne — we can recommend options at different price points based on your bathroom. Call 0468 013 012 | VBA Lic. 120392