How Much Does Website Design Cost in Australia? (2025 Guide)

Your website isn’t just a digital presence, it’s one of your most valuable business assets.

In 2025, great design is no longer a luxury. It’s a must-have for building trust, attracting leads, and standing out in a crowded market. Thankfully, you don’t need a massive budget to get it right.

Website design in Australia typically costs between AUD $3,000 and $10,000 for small to medium businesses. The cost varies based on site complexity, features, and agency reputation.

Custom eCommerce sites or large business websites can exceed AUD $20,000.

Let’s dive into the breakdown of website design cost in 2025.

Table of Contents

• What Affects Website Design Cost?
• What’s included in the cost of Website Design?
• Additional Web Design Costs in Australia
• Website Maintenance Costs
• Budgeting for Your Website: Quick Checklist
• Website Cost-Saving Tips
• Custom vs Template Website: Which Should You Choose?
• What are the Hourly Rates for Experienced Web Specialists in Australia?
• Smart Website Design That Fits Your Budget
• Conclusion
• Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What Affects Website Design Cost?

The cost of website design can vary quite a bit. It all depends on your business needs, project size, and the level of quality you’re after. Here’s what drives the price:

• Website Complexity: A simple site with few pages will obviously cost less than a complex eCommerce site with hundreds of products.
• Project size and scope: Building a small business website is different from building an online store or portal. Different types of sites require different levels of investment.
• Functionality: Every business has unique goals and objectives. Some may need more functionality than others, which will impact the overall website design pricing.
• Level of customisation: If you need a completely custom website with specific homepages and web pages, you can expect to pay more than if you use a pre-built theme or pre-made templates.
• The web design agency you choose: The cost of web design can depend on the agency you use. Some agencies charge more than others, so it’s important to get quotes from a few different companies before making a decision.
• Team size and skillset: Web design projects often require a team of designers, developers, and design tools to complete. The larger and more experienced the team, the higher the web design pricing.
• Timeline and urgency: Web projects can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to complete. The more urgent or longer the project, the higher the cost.
• Ongoing support and maintenance: Once your website is up and running, you’ll need to budget for ongoing support and maintenance. This can include things like software updates, security updates, content management, and website hosting.

When you know what affects pricing, you can plan your budget with confidence and avoid nasty surprises later.

Want help scoping your website or need a quote for your project? Get a free quote today.

What’s included in the cost of Website Design?

The cost of website design in Australia can vary significantly, ranging from around $1,000 to over $50,000, depending on several factors.

Basic, simple websites might cost a few thousand dollars, while more complex e-commerce or custom enterprise sites can reach tens of thousands.

It’s important to know what makes up the costs of website development. The cost of website design typically includes the following:

• Domain name registration: $10-$25 per year
• Hosting: $10-$50 per month
• SSL certificate: $0-$100 per year
• WordPress theme: $0-$200 per year (if you go with the pre-made template option)
• Plugins and add-ons: $0-$100 each
• Stock photos: $0-$200
• Custom photos and graphics: $500-$5,000+ (if you want to take custom photos)
• Copywriting: $500-$2,000 per page
• Design: $1,000-$10,000+
• Development: $2,000-$10,000+
• Ongoing maintenance and updates: $100-$500 per month

These costs can vary widely depending on the size of your project, the features you need, and whether you’re building a simple site or a fully-featured eCommerce store.

If you’re working with a professional web designer or professional web developer, you’ll also be paying for strategy, user experience, and expertise, not just a visual layout.

Some sites may also require premium features such as advanced forms, animations, or API integrations, which can add to the final price.

So when you’re asking “how much does a website really cost?”, the answer depends on who you hire and how far you want to go with customisation.

Additional Web Design Costs in Australia

Beyond the core design and development work, there are extra costs that can catch you off guard if you’re not prepared. These aren’t always included in your web design quote, but they’re often essential for a complete, high-performing website.

Here are some common extras you may need to budget for.

1. Photography

Strong visuals build trust and instantly improve user experience. Custom photography helps your brand feel more real and relatable.

While some businesses rely on stock images, original photos give your site authenticity and better connect with website visitors. For online stores, high-quality product photos are a must.

Photography is one of those additional costs that’s often overlooked, but it can elevate your site’s impact and support your overall digital marketing.

2. Content Writing

Clear, persuasive content is what turns visitors into leads. Good writing supports your SEO, builds authority, and guides users through your site with ease.

Many businesses try to write content themselves, but working with a pro saves time and creates better results.

Strong content also improves your chances of ranking well on search engines, especially when paired with expert seo services.

3. Analytics Setup

Understanding how people use your site helps you make smarter business decisions. An analytics setup gives you data on page views, bounce rates, traffic sources, and conversions.

Basic tracking tools like Google Analytics are free, but proper setup and event tracking often require expert input.

4. Third-Party Integrations

Your website often needs to connect with external tools like CRM systems, booking platforms, email marketing, or payment gateways. These integrations save you time and streamline your business.

While some plugins are plug-and-play, others require configuration or custom web development, especially if your systems need to talk to each other in a specific way.

These features add convenience and power, but they can come with additional costs, depending on the complexity of your setup.

5. Custom Graphics

Custom graphics make your website feel unique and on-brand. From icons and illustrations to infographics and banners, they help communicate your message visually and professionally.

Graphics also help simplify complex ideas and support your SEO by improving user engagement. Pair them with a clear message and a professional email address, and your site will leave a lasting impression.

Website Maintenance Costs

Once your website is live, the real work begins. Keeping your site updated, secure, and running at full speed requires ongoing maintenance, and it comes with ongoing costs.

Monthly Maintenance Costs

For most businesses, monthly support and maintenance cost range from $300 to $500, depending on your site’s complexity and needs.

What’s typically included:

• Software and plugin updates
• Security scans and backups
• Bug fixes and technical support
• Content edits and design tweaks
• Performance and uptime monitoring

If your site includes custom development, membership portals, or database integration, you may need a more advanced plan.

Our maintenance services go beyond Sydney. We also offer services in Melbourne, Brisbane and all over Australia.

Web Hosting Costs

Your web host plays a big role in site speed and security.

Hosting costs can range from $20 to $100+ per month, based on your setup.

• Shared hosting is cheaper, but limited
• Dedicated hosting offers more speed, power and control
• Premium plans include SSL, backups, and better customer support

A high-quality website with growing traffic should not rely on cheap website builders or basic hosting.

Budgeting for Your Website: Quick Checklist

Before you jump into building your website, it’s important to be clear about what you’re investing in and what you actually need.

Website design costs in Australia can start from a few thousand dollars and go well over $10,000 for a fully custom website. On top of that, you’ll also want to budget for ongoing support, hosting, and maintenance.

If you’re just starting out, platforms like Wix or Squarespace may save on upfront costs. But if you’re aiming for long-term growth and SEO performance, investing in a custom site will give you far more flexibility, brand impact, and scalability.

To help you plan better, here’s a quick budgeting checklist:

1. What’s the main goal of your website?
   (Generating leads, selling products, building trust?)
2. What does success look like for your business?
   (More enquiries, higher revenue, better visibility?)
3. Do you have traffic or lead targets to hit?
   (Clear KPIs help shape the right investment.)
4. How important is a custom design?
   (Template vs unique branding – what does your brand need?)
5. Will you need help with content, images, or copywriting?
6. Do you need eCommerce or advanced features?
   (Think about booking forms, payment systems, CRM integrations.)
7. Do you need ongoing support after launch?
8. Have you factored in ongoing costs?

A well-built website is more than just a digital business card, it’s your most powerful marketing tool. Budget smart, and it will deliver returns for years to come.

Need help mapping out your website budget? Book a free consultation with our team.

Website Cost-Saving Tips

Now that we’ve covered the estimated website costs, you might be wondering how to make it more affordable without cutting corners.

The good news is, launching a professional website doesn’t always need a huge budget. With the right approach and a clear plan, you can still get a strong online presence and a site that grows with your business.

Here are some smart ways to save on your website project, including comparing DIY websites and a web design agency.

1. DIY Website Builders

If you’re just starting out and need a simple online business card, DIY platforms like Wix, Squarespace, or Weebly can help you get your own website live quickly and affordably.

These platforms are ideal for basic sites that don’t require ecommerce functionality, advanced features, or custom design.

Why DIY builders can save you money:

• Lower upfront cost
• Hosting and security are included
• Drag-and-drop interface, no coding needed
• Fast setup with built-in templates and responsive design

However, these tools have limits. You won’t get much flexibility with design or features. Most lack proper SEO tools, and they’re not ideal for mobile devices, user-friendly experiences, or sites that need to scale.

If your business plans to sell online, include ecommerce functionality, or needs a more advanced content management system, you may outgrow a DIY setup quickly.

2. Use WordPress with Smart Planning

If you want a professional web design that can grow with your business, WordPress is a much smarter investment. It’s flexible, SEO-friendly, and ideal for both small business owners and those building more complex sites.

And you don’t need to go fully custom to keep your web design costs under control.

How to save money with WordPress:

• Use a high-quality premium theme instead of starting from scratch
• Begin with essential pages, and add more over time
• Plan your content and structure early in the web design process
• Use stock photos or affordable graphic designers to lower creative costs
• Bundle your web hosting, support, and domain with one provider

WordPress gives you more freedom to scale, integrate new tools, and reach your target audience without rebuilding from the ground up. The content management system is extremely user-friendly.

DIY builders are a great entry point. But if you’re chasing your web design dreams, need a site that can scale, or want better performance and flexibility, WordPress offers far better long-term value.

Custom vs Template Website: Which Should You Choose?

A template website is fast, affordable, and a great starting point. It’s ideal for businesses that need a clean, simple site without the bells and whistles. You get pre-built layouts, built-in features, and quick setup, perfect if you’re short on time or budget.

But if you want to stand out, build trust, and grow your business online, a custom website is a better choice.

You get a tailored design, advanced features like eCommerce functionality or custom forms, and full flexibility to scale. It’s built to support your long-term goals and give your brand a unique edge.

Templates are great when you’re just getting started. Custom is best when you’re serious about performance, SEO, and user experience across all mobile devices.

If you’re not sure which way to go, talk to a web design agency. They’ll help you match the right solution to your budget, business stage, and what your audience actually needs.

What are the Hourly Rates for Experienced Web Specialists in Australia?

The web is always changing- new trends, new technologies, and new challenges.

That’s why it’s important to have an experienced web specialist on your team. Someone who has seen it all and can help you keep your website current, while also providing expert advice and guidance on how to best achieve your online goals.

Unfortunately, with experience comes a higher price tag. Web specialists who have been in the game for a while typically charge hourly rates that are significantly higher than those of less experienced professionals.

But what exactly should you expect to pay for an experienced web specialist? Here is a breakdown of average hourly rates charged by web professionals with different levels of experience:

• Junior web designers: $30 – $50 per hour
• Mid-level web developers: $60 – $100 per hour
• Senior web specialist: $100 – $250 per hour

Of course, these are just averages- you may find web specialists who charge higher or lower rates depending on their location, skillset, and other factors.

But in general, you can expect to pay significantly more for an experienced web specialist than for someone just starting out in the field.

So, is it worth it to invest in an experienced web specialist? That depends on your needs and budget. If you have a small website with simple goals, you may be able to get by with a less experienced web professional. But if you have a complex website with ambitious goals, an experienced web specialist will be worth every penny.

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Smart Website Design That Fits Your Budget

You don’t need a massive budget to get a high-performing, professionally designed website. Nirmal Web Design is a full-service agency that blends striking visuals with clear strategy, all at a price Australian businesses can afford.

Our designers craft clean, user-friendly layouts that speak your brand language and guide visitors toward action. Forget off-the-shelf themes. We create original designs that give your business instant credibility and room to grow.

Ready for a website that looks sharp, converts visitors, and respects your budget? Book your free consultation with Nirmal Web Design today.

Conclusion

A great website is an investment. Understanding the true cost to build a website helps you plan smarter and avoid unexpected expenses. It’s not just about the upfront price, but the long-term value your site delivers through performance, design, and support.

When done right, your website becomes more than a digital presence. It turns into a strategic tool for growth.

With clear goals and the right team offering comprehensive services, you can build a website that supports your brand, attracts customers, and evolves with your business.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

How much does it cost to build a website for a small business in Australia?

The cost of a custom website can range from $1,000 to $20,000, depending on the features and functionality you need. For a small business, the cost often ranges between $1,000 to $5,000.

How much does it cost to keep a website safe and secure?

The cost of keeping a website safe and secure can vary depending on the approach you take. Security plugins can cost from free to $100 per year and managed hosting plans can cost from $30 to $100 per month.

Is it worth it to invest in a custom website?

Yes, investing in a custom website is definitely worth it if you are serious about growing your business online. A custom website will offer your business a unique website that is built specifically for your needs, which means that it will be much more effective in achieving your goals than a generic template-based website.

How much is the cost of developing a 1-page website?

A 1-page website in Webflow typically costs between $1,500 and $2,500 in Australia. The price depends on the complexity, animations, and custom design work involved.

How can I save money on website design?

You can save money by starting with a clear brief, limiting revisions, and using a no-code platform like Webflow. It also helps to choose a package that suits your needs now, with the option to scale later.

Do I need to use a managed hosting provider?

No, you don’t necessarily need to use a managed hosting provider. However, it is worth considering if you want to make sure that your website is always safe and secure. Managed hosting providers will take care of all the security updates for you and will also often provide malware scanning and removal.

How much does hosting a website cost?

Website hosting in Australia typically costs between $20 to $100+ per month, depending on the type of hosting and the features you need.

Basic shared hosting is cheaper and suitable for small sites, but if you’re running a larger site or ecommerce store, you’ll want faster, more secure options like VPS or dedicated hosting.

Some providers bundle extras like SSL certificates, backups, and a professional email address, which can add value and reduce your additional costs.

How much does it cost to hire a web designer?

The cost of hiring a website designer can vary depending on the scope of work and the experience of the designer. Hourly rates for web designers can range from $50 to $250, and project-based fees can range from $1,000 to $20,000.

Do I need to hire a web designer if I use a WordPress theme?

No, you don’t necessarily need to hire a web designer if you use a WordPress theme. However, it is always best to consult with a website designer when choosing a theme so that they can help you customise it to meet your specific needs.