Project Cost Calculator
Every cost of a second dwelling or new home, from first survey to the occupancy certificate.
Newstart Homes – Project cost estimate
Second dwelling, 60 m² on 600 m² site · Prepared 31 Oct 2026
Estimated total, start to occupancy
$198,370
inc GST of $18,034 · $3,306 per m² all-in
Build cost per m² (inc margin & GST)
$2,784
+$284 vs Fast Quote rate ($2,500)
- Builder works
- $132,055
- Margin
- $19,808
- Contingency
- $9,904
- Fees & approvals
- $18,569
- GST
- $18,034
Timeline to occupancy
20–30 weeks- 1Design, approvals & pre-start6–10 wks
- 2Construction to practical completion12–16 wks
- 3Connections, final inspection & occupancy certificate2–4 wks
Cost breakdown
Contour & identification survey
Allowance
Soil test & site classification
Allowance
Architectural drafting & working drawings
60 m² × $25
Structural & civil engineering
Allowance
Energy efficiency assessment (NatHERS)
Allowance
Town planning application
Allowance
Building approval & certifier inspections
Allowance
Plumbing & drainage approval
Allowance
Council infrastructure charges
Allowance
QBCC home warranty insurance (allowance)
151,863 $ contract × 1%
- Builder works subtotal
- $132,055
- Builder margin (15%)
- $19,808
- Contingency (7.5% of works)
- $9,904
- Fees, approvals & handover
- $18,569
- Total ex GST
- $180,336
- GST (10%)
- $18,034
- Total inc GST
- $198,370
Indicative estimate for planning only. Rates are allowances for South East Queensland and can be edited line by line; confirm with site inspection, soil test, engineering and approved plans before contract.
$198,370
inc GST · $3,306/m² · 20–30 weeks