Cost estimates only: Any building, material or upgrade figures on this page are indicative, not fixed prices or quotes. Confirm current written costs, specifications and inclusions directly with your builder, supplier or relevant trade.
Overview
The driveway is the first thing visitors see when they arrive at your home — and it's one of the most commonly misunderstood inclusions in a new home contract. Many buyers assume the driveway is automatically included, only to discover at handover that it was either excluded or specified to a much lower standard than expected.
This guide explains what builders typically include, the different surface options available, and what questions to ask at tender stage.
Watch Out
What's Typically Included
Driveway inclusions vary considerably across builders and packages. Here's what the most common scenarios look like:
- Premium/full inclusionFull exposed aggregate or coloured concrete driveway, specified width, from garage to street. Includes council crossover.
- Standard inclusionPlain brushed or steel-trowelled concrete driveway, specified width, from garage to street. Council crossover may or may not be included.
- Base/formed inclusionFormed-up concrete sub-base only — no finished surface. Buyer arranges finished driveway separately after handover.
- ExcludedNo driveway included. Common in house-and-land packages where the land developer handles civil works, or in some display home contracts.
Driveway Surface Types
Plain Concrete (Brushed or Steel Trowel)
The base standard. Plain concrete is durable and functional but has an industrial grey appearance. Broom-finished concrete provides a slip-resistant texture. Most builders include this at the base level.
Exposed Aggregate Concrete
The most popular driveway upgrade in Australia. Exposed aggregate reveals the decorative stone aggregate within the concrete mix, creating a textured, non-slip surface with a premium appearance. Available in many stone colours and mix types.
Coloured/Stencilled Concrete
Concrete can be tinted with integral colour or surface oxide, and patterned with stencils to mimic brick or stone. A cost-effective way to add visual interest compared to natural pavers.
Pavers (Concrete or Clay Brick)
Individual paving units — either concrete pavers or clay bricks — laid in a sand/mortar bed. Attractive, can be repaired individually if cracked, and come in a huge range of colours and patterns. Higher cost than concrete alternatives.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Surface | Appearance | Durability | Maintenance | Typical Cost (Supply & Lay) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plain Concrete | Functional/industrial | Very durable | Low | ~$70–$100/m² |
| Exposed Aggregate | Premium, textured | Very durable | Low (periodic seal) | ~$90–$140/m² |
| Coloured Concrete | Decorative | Durable | Low-moderate | ~$90–$130/m² |
| Concrete Pavers | Premium | Durable | Low (weed/sand) | ~$100–$180/m² |
| Clay Brick Pavers | Classic/premium | Very durable | Low-moderate | ~$120–$200/m² |
* Costs are indicative supply and lay only. Builder margins, sub-base preparation, and site access will affect total cost.
Included or Upgrade?
Varies by Builder
Plain Concrete Driveway (Brushed or Steel Trowel)
Included by many builders but not universal. Confirm width, finish, and whether council crossover is included.
Typically an Upgrade
Exposed Aggregate Driveway
Almost universally a paid upgrade. Typical additional cost over plain concrete: $1,500–$4,000 depending on driveway size.
Typically an Upgrade
Pavers (Concrete or Clay)
A premium upgrade. Budget $3,000–$8,000+ depending on size and paver type. Also check whether the sub-base is included.
Common Builder Upgrades
Common Builder Upgrade
Exposed Aggregate Driveway Upgrade
Common Builder Upgrade
Driveway Width Extension
Common Builder Upgrade
Driveway Edging or Kerbing
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Guides
Continue Comparing Builders
Planning a new home? Compare Australia's leading builders by inclusions, standard features and specifications before you sign.
Compare by State
Compare by City
Explore Estates & Services
Compare My Build
Compare Builders That Include This
See which builders include this as standard and where it may be an upgrade.