Air Conditioning Costs by State: NSW vs VIC vs QLD (2025 Price Guide)
Air conditioning costs vary significantly across Australian states and territories. Factors like climate, labour rates, demand patterns, and local regulations all influence what you'll pay. This comprehensive guide breaks down costs state by state to help you budget accurately.
Installation Cost Comparison
Split System Installation
| State | Small (2.5kW) | Medium (5kW) | Large (7kW+) | Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NSW | $1,500–$2,500 | $2,200–$3,500 | $3,000–$4,500 | $2,700 |
| VIC | $1,400–$2,400 | $2,100–$3,400 | $2,900–$4,400 | $2,600 |
| QLD | $1,500–$2,500 | $2,200–$3,500 | $3,000–$4,500 | $2,700 |
| WA | $1,600–$2,600 | $2,300–$3,600 | $3,100–$4,600 | $2,800 |
| SA | $1,500–$2,500 | $2,200–$3,500 | $3,000–$4,500 | $2,700 |
| ACT | $1,500–$2,500 | $2,200–$3,500 | $3,000–$4,500 | $2,700 |
| TAS | $1,600–$2,600 | $2,300–$3,600 | $3,100–$4,600 | $2,800 |
| NT | $1,700–$2,800 | $2,500–$3,800 | $3,300–$4,800 | $3,000 |
Ducted System Installation
| State | Small Home | Medium Home | Large Home |
|---|---|---|---|
| NSW | $8,000–$12,000 | $12,000–$16,000 | $16,000–$22,000 |
| VIC | $7,500–$11,500 | $11,500–$15,500 | $15,500–$21,000 |
| QLD | $8,500–$12,500 | $12,500–$16,500 | $16,500–$22,500 |
| WA | $8,500–$13,000 | $13,000–$17,000 | $17,000–$23,000 |
| SA | $8,000–$12,000 | $12,000–$16,000 | $16,000–$22,000 |
Why Do Costs Vary by State?
1. Labour Rates
Trade labour rates differ significantly across states:
- Sydney (NSW): $80–$120/hour — highest due to cost of living
- Melbourne (VIC): $75–$110/hour
- Brisbane (QLD): $70–$100/hour
- Perth (WA): $75–$110/hour
- Adelaide (SA): $65–$95/hour — among the lowest
2. Climate and Demand
States with more extreme climates see higher demand and potentially higher prices:
- QLD & NT: High cooling demand year-round drives consistent pricing
- VIC & TAS: Strong heating demand in winter creates year-round installation activity
- SA & WA: Extreme summer heat creates sharp seasonal peaks
3. Building Regulations
Each state has different building codes and licensing requirements that affect installation complexity and cost:
- NSW: Requires Development Application for some installations
- VIC: Specific noise regulations for outdoor units
- QLD: Cyclone-rated mounting required in northern regions
Servicing Costs by State
Regular servicing is essential for maintaining efficiency. Here's what you'll pay:
| State | Basic Service | Full Service | Deep Clean |
|---|---|---|---|
| NSW | $80–$150 | $150–$250 | $250–$400 |
| VIC | $80–$140 | $140–$240 | $240–$380 |
| QLD | $80–$150 | $150–$250 | $250–$400 |
| WA | $90–$160 | $160–$260 | $260–$420 |
| SA | $75–$130 | $130–$220 | $220–$360 |
Running Costs: What Does It Cost to Run Your AC?
Electricity rates vary significantly by state, directly impacting your running costs:
| State | Avg. Electricity Rate | Annual Cooling Cost (Split) | Annual Cooling Cost (Ducted) |
|---|---|---|---|
| NSW | 30–35c/kWh | $350–$550 | $800–$1,400 |
| VIC | 28–32c/kWh | $320–$500 | $750–$1,300 |
| QLD | 26–30c/kWh | $400–$650 | $900–$1,600 |
| WA | 29–33c/kWh | $380–$600 | $850–$1,500 |
| SA | 35–42c/kWh | $400–$650 | $950–$1,700 |
Note: QLD and NT have higher annual cooling costs despite lower electricity rates because air conditioning runs for more hours per year due to the tropical climate.
How to Reduce Costs in Your State
For Hot Climate States (QLD, NT, WA)
- Invest in high-efficiency systems (5+ star rating)
- Consider solar panels to offset running costs
- Use ceiling fans alongside AC to raise the thermostat setting
For Temperate States (NSW, VIC, ACT, TAS)
- Choose a reverse-cycle system for both heating and cooling
- Install during the off-peak season for installation savings
- Use zoning to avoid heating or cooling empty rooms
For All States
- Get at least 3 quotes from licensed installers
- Book your service in autumn to avoid peak pricing
- Clean filters monthly to maintain efficiency
Get a Personalised Estimate
Every home is different. Use our state-specific cost calculators to get an accurate estimate based on your exact requirements:
- Split System Installation Calculator
- Ducted AC Installation Calculator
- AC Servicing Calculator
- AC Regas Calculator
Or chat with our AI Cost Assistant for personalised advice based on your location and needs.