How much do web designers charge in Australia?

The cost of hiring a web designer in Australia can vary dramatically depending on your project’s requirements, the designer’s experience, and the type of agency or freelancer you choose. For Melbourne businesses, understanding these cost factors is key to making an informed investment in your digital presence. Here’s a thorough breakdown of what you can expect when budgeting for web design, what’s included at different price points, and how to ensure you get the best value from the best web design agency in Melbourne.

What Factors Influence Web Design Pricing in Australia?

Several elements contribute to the final cost of a web design project:

• Type of Website: A simple brochure site, a content-rich corporate site, or a full-scale e-commerce platform all require different levels of design, development, and integration.
• Custom Design vs. Templates: Custom designs are tailored to your brand and audience but require more time and expertise, while template-based sites are faster and cheaper but less unique.
• Number of Pages: More pages mean more design, content, and development work.
• Functionality & Features: Booking systems, e-commerce, membership areas, custom forms, and integrations with third-party tools add to the complexity and cost.
• Content Creation: Professional copywriting, photography, and video production may be included or quoted separately.
• SEO & Performance: On-page SEO, mobile responsiveness, and site speed optimisation are standard with reputable agencies.
• Ongoing Support & Maintenance: Some agencies offer post-launch support packages for updates, security, and hosting.

Typical Web Design Costs in Melbourne (2025)

For most Melbourne small businesses, a professional website typically falls between $5,000 and $15,000. E-commerce builds start around $8,000 and scale up with complexity, while larger custom projects can exceed $30,000.

Hourly Rates and Additional Costs

• Freelancers: $50–$150 per hour (often suitable for smaller or template-based sites)
• Agencies: $100–$250+ per hour (reflecting higher overhead, broader expertise, and strategic input)
• Content Creation: Copywriting, photography, and video are often quoted separately ($500–$5,000+ depending on scope)
• Ongoing Maintenance: $100–$500+ per month for updates, security, and support

What’s Included in a Professional Web Design Package?

A reputable agency or designer will typically provide:

• Discovery & Strategy: Workshops, competitor analysis, and digital strategy to align your website with business goals
• Custom Design: Tailored layouts, branding, and user experience (UX) design
• Development: Responsive coding, CMS integration (e.g., WordPress, Shopify), and feature implementation
• SEO & Performance: Optimised structure, on-page SEO, and fast load times
• Training & Handover: Guidance for managing your site, plus documentation and support
• Ongoing Support: Packages for performance monitoring, updates, and continuous improvement

Choosing the Best Partner

Selecting the best web design agency in Melbourne involves more than comparing quotes. Consider:

• Portfolio & Case Studies: Look for proven results with businesses like yours
• Process & Communication: Clear timelines, transparent pricing, and regular updates are essential
• Technology Stack: Ensure the agency works with platforms and technologies suited to your needs
• Support & Maintenance: Ask about post-launch support, security updates, and future scalability

Why Do Costs Vary So Much?

• Template vs. Custom: Template sites are faster and cheaper but may lack uniqueness or advanced features. Custom builds require more time and expertise.
• Agency Reputation: Established agencies with award-winning portfolios and larger teams charge more, but bring strategic insight and reliability.
• Complexity & Integrations: The more features and integrations required, the higher the investment.

How to Get the Best Value

• Define your goals and must-have features before requesting quotes
• Ask for detailed proposals and compare inclusions, not just price
• Prioritise quality design and development – it pays off in user engagement and business growth

Example Web Design Cost Breakdown

For Melbourne businesses seeking a strategic, future-ready website, investing in a respected agency like JTB Studios ensures you receive a site that not only looks impressive but also delivers real results – driving engagement, conversions, and long-term growth.