A square-metre rate can help with an early budget, but the final cost is for the whole job. A short, easy-access driveway over prepared ground is a different project from removing an old slab on a sloping block. Start with the concrete driveways service guide if you are still planning the layout. In Wollongong, Shellharbour and Kiama, ask whether the quote covers only the driveway on your land or also the crossing to the road.
What goes into the price?
| Item | Check in the written quote |
|---|---|
| Size and layout | Are parking, turning areas, paths and the crossing measured separately? |
| Removal | Is cutting, breaking up, loading and disposal of old concrete included? |
| Access and ground | Can machinery and trucks reach the site? What excavation and base preparation are allowed for? |
| Levels and drainage | How will rainwater move away from the house and garage? Are drains included? |
| Construction and finish | What design, reinforcement, joints, surface finish and curing are specified? |
| Other costs | Are council applications, site clean-up, reinstatement and GST included or excluded? |
A useful way to start a budget
Measure each section: length × width gives an approximate area in square metres. A 10 m × 3 m rectangle is 30 m². As an example of the calculation, a quoted $150/m² for that area would be $4,500 for the work that rate actually includes. It is not an advertised local price or a total job estimate. Add any separately quoted removal, excavation, access, drainage, approvals and finish costs. Ask for a site-based, itemised total; multiplying a headline rate by 30 m² can miss costs that do not scale neatly with area.
Compare like with like
Ask for plain and exposed aggregate options against the same base and construction scope. Make sure one quote has not left out demolition or the crossing. For a damaged driveway, have the cause of cracking or movement considered before choosing replacement over repair.
Wollongong Council says approval is needed before building or replacing a driveway and sets requirements for crossings in the road reserve. Check the current council guidance and ask who handles the application. Requirements differ by council and property.
Can I get a fixed price from dimensions alone?
Dimensions are a starting point. Access, existing ground, levels and the agreed construction scope may need a site inspection before a final quote.
Is exposed aggregate always much dearer?
It involves additional finish work and materials, but the difference for your project should be quoted on the same preparation and slab specification.