The hourly rate is around $60. Rekeying a lock costs $150 to $190, and more extreme jobs can cost between $220 to $330. Check this locksmith cost guide to hire affordable locksmith solutions near you.
Locksmith services are essential for home, business, and vehicle security. From emergency lockouts to key duplication, lock repairs, and smart lock installations, locksmiths provide many critical services. Whether you need to get back into your home, upgrade your security, or replace lost keys, a locksmith ensures safety and convenience. Their expertise helps prevent break-ins, protect valuables, and maintain secure access to your property.
The cost of locksmith services varies based on several factors, including the type of service required, the complexity of the lock system, the time of day, and location. Emergency call-outs, high-security lock installations, and after-hours services generally cost more. Travel distance and the urgency of the job also impact pricing. In this guide, we’ll break down the average locksmith costs in Australia, service-specific pricing, cost differences by city, and tips to save money while hiring a reliable locksmith nearby.
Understanding how much a locksmith costs in Australia can help you budget for lock-related services and avoid overpaying. Locksmith prices vary based on the type of service, location, and urgency. Generally, locksmiths charge either a fixed fee for specific services or an hourly rate for more complex jobs.
On average, locksmith services in Australia cost between $90 and $250. Basic services like key cutting or rekeying locks may fall on the lower end, while emergency lockouts, high-security installations, and automotive locksmith services can be more expensive.
Emergency services, after-hours assistance, and travel fees can significantly impact final costs. In the following sections, we’ll break down locksmith pricing by service type and location to give you a clearer picture of what to expect.
The cost of hiring a locksmith depends on the specific service required. Some jobs, like cutting a key, are relatively inexpensive, while others, like installing a smart lock or unlocking a car, can be more costly. Below is a breakdown of common locksmith services and their price ranges.
If you're locked out of your home, office, or car, locksmiths provide emergency access services. Prices vary based on the time of day and the complexity of the lock.
Key cutting is one of the most affordable locksmith services, ideal for homeowners, businesses, and car owners needing spare keys.
Handyman locksmiths fix worn-out locks caused by weather or regular use. Get expert lock repair or replacement to keep your home secure.
Rekeying is often a more affordable alternative to replacing locks, as it changes the internal mechanism without replacing the entire lock.
If you've lost your car keys, need a spare, or have a malfunctioning transponder, a car locksmith can help.
Smart locks are becoming increasingly popular, offering keyless entry and enhanced security features.
If you’ve forgotten your safe combination or need a higher level of security, locksmiths can assist with safe opening and security upgrades.
Locksmith prices can vary significantly across Australian cities due to demand, cost of living, and local competition. Below is an overview of locksmith costs in major cities, helping you understand regional price differences.
Sydney, Australia’s largest city, tends to have higher Sydney locksmith costs due to high demand and operating expenses.
Locksmith in Melbourne has competitive pricing, with a mix of affordable and premium services.
Brisbane locksmiths offer moderate pricing, often lower than Sydney but similar to Melbourne.
Perth locksmith costs are relatively stable, with some variation based on travel distance and emergency requests.
Adelaide generally has some of the most affordable locksmith prices among major cities.
As the capital city, Canberra’s locksmith costs are slightly above average due to a smaller number of service providers.
Hobart has fewer locksmiths, leading to higher prices for emergency services.
Prices in all cities can vary based on the time of day, type of lock, and urgency of the service.
Locksmith costs can vary widely depending on several key factors. Understanding these can help you estimate potential costs and avoid unexpected charges.
Locksmiths often charge higher rates for services provided outside regular business hours.
If you require immediate assistance, such as being locked out of your home or car, expect to pay more for the urgency.
The complexity of the lock influences service charges. Standard locks are easier and cheaper to fix, while high-security locks require specialized skills.
Locksmiths may charge extra for long-distance travel, especially in rural or remote areas.
Other factors, such as the locksmith's experience, reputation, and location-specific demand, can also impact pricing.
Hiring a locksmith doesn't have to break the bank. With the right approach, you can keep costs down while still getting quality service. Here are some smart ways to save money on locksmith services:
Before hiring a locksmith, compare prices from at least three different providers. This helps you:
Hiring a locksmith near you can reduce travel charges and call-out fees. Look for:
If you lose your keys or want to upgrade security, rekeying is often cheaper than replacing locks. Rekeying is a great option when the lock mechanism is still in good condition.
Emergency and after-hours services can cost 30% – 50% more than daytime rates. If your issue isn’t urgent, schedule a locksmith visit during regular hours.
Many locksmiths offer discounts for:
Taking these steps can help you avoid unnecessary expenses while ensuring your home, car, or business remains secure.
Choosing the right locksmith is crucial to ensure quality service, fair pricing, and security for your home, car, or business. Here’s what to look for when hiring a locksmith in Australia:
A professional locksmith should be licensed and qualified to perform security-related work.
Before hiring, check online reviews to assess the locksmith’s reputation.
A reliable locksmith stands by their work with guarantees.
For lockouts or urgent repairs, check if the locksmith provides 24/7 emergency assistance with reasonable response times.
By following these steps, you can ensure you hire a trustworthy and skilled locksmith who offers fair pricing and high-quality service.
Locksmith services are essential for home and vehicle security, and their costs vary based on the type of service, location, time of day, and lock complexity. Whether you need emergency lockout assistance, key duplication, rekeying, or a full lock replacement, understanding the cost factors can help you make an informed decision.
To get the best value, compare multiple locksmith quotes, check customer reviews, and choose a licensed professional. If you're on a budget, consider rekeying instead of full lock replacements and schedule non-urgent services during regular business hours to avoid extra charges. Planning and keeping a trusted locksmith’s contact details handy can save time, money, and stress when you need security assistance.
Costs of various services and materials in this cost guide should be taken as estimates. These depend on location, preference and demands in the market.
A locksmith typically charges between $80 – $200 to unlock a standard door. The price depends on the type of lock, time of service, and location. If you need assistance after hours, on weekends, or during holidays, expect to pay an additional $50 – $150.
Changing a lock can cost anywhere from $120 – $350 per lock. The final price depends on the type of lock, whether it's a standard, high-security, or smart lock, and the complexity of the installation.
For home locksmith services, the cost varies based on the service required. Lockout assistance usually costs $80 – $200, rekeying a lock is about $80 – $160, and replacing or installing new locks ranges from $120 – $350 per lock. If you’re installing a smart lock, expect to pay between $250 – $500.
The cost of car locksmith services depends on the type of service. Getting locked out of your car will typically cost $80 – $250, while key cutting and duplication range from $50 – $300, depending on the key type. Transponder key programming can cost between $150 – $400, and ignition repair or replacement ranges from $200 – $600.
Most locksmiths charge a call-out fee of $50 – $100 for attending a job. This can be higher if the locksmith needs to travel a long distance or if the service is requested outside of normal working hours.
If you need multiple locks changed, the cost will vary. Basic locks cost around $120 – $180 per lock, while high-security or electronic locks can range from $250 – $500 per lock. For a full house lock replacement involving 4–6 locks, the total cost can be between $500 – $1,200.
Emergency locksmith services usually cost between $150 – $350. The price depends on how urgent the request is and the time of day. Late-night, weekend, or holiday services typically come with higher charges.
Yes, locksmith services on weekends, public holidays, or after regular hours are usually 20% – 50% more expensive than standard rates. If the job isn't urgent, scheduling a service during business hours can help you save money.
Some home and car insurance policies cover locksmith services, especially in cases of break-ins or lost keys. It’s best to check with your insurance provider to see if locksmith services are included in your policy and whether you need to pay upfront and claim later.