Marketers & Business Owners

Looking for expert marketing ideas to boost your results?

Get fresh insights our marketers share every fortnight

    Blog / What is The Cost to Build a Billboard in Australia

    What is The Cost to Build a Billboard in Australia

    Building a billboard

    Share this post

    Reading Time: 4 minutes

    So, You Are Looking to Build a Billboard in Australia

    Are you considering building a billboard in Australia but unsure where to start? You’re not alone.

    Many aspiring advertisers and property owners face similar challenges when navigating the complexities of billboard projects. That’s why we are here to help.

    Build a billboard in Australia

    We Offer Expert Guidance Tailored to Your Needs

    Our marketing team specialise in providing in-depth consultations to help you determine the feasibility and profitability of your billboard project. With our experience and insights, you’ll gain clarity on crucial aspects such as:

    Council Requirements (DA): Understanding the local council’s Development Applications and permissions is essential.

    Construction Costs: Knowing the costs involved from initial planning to final construction is vital. We can provide detailed breakdowns and even supply quotes from our trusted partners.

    Revenue Potential: Using our traffic data and analysing your desired location, we will help you estimate the potential revenue your billboard could generate.

    Leasing and Self-Management: Learn about different leasing options and the ins and outs of managing your billboard.

    Book a Consultation with an Expert

    Investing in a billboard can be a lucrative venture, but it requires careful planning and expert advice. That’s where our online consultation can help you get started.

    During this 1-hour session, we’ll cover all the necessary details to help you make a well-informed decision about investing in this asset class.

    billboard expert

    Billboard Project Consultant: Omer Bernstein

    If you want to build a billboard but don’t know where to start or whether it’s possible or potentially profitable, please book a consultation.

    Book Your 1-Hour Paid Strategy Consultation

    How Much Does It Cost to Build a Billboard?

    Building a billboard in Australia involves several key costs, categorised into primary construction costs and auxiliary expenses such as council approvals and installation. Here’s a clear breakdown to help you understand the financial investment required.

    cost of building a billboard

    Billboard Construction Costs

    Static Billboard:

    Small Digital Billboard (6m x 3m): $120,000 to $145,000

    Large Digital Billboard (12.48m x 3.2m): $190,000 to $244,000

    Includes basic materials, labour, and standard construction.

    Digital Billboard:

    Small Digital Billboard (6m x 3m): $170,000 to $255,000

    Large Digital Billboard (12.48m x 3.2m): $516,000 to $618,000

    Higher costs due to advanced features, LED screens, and technology integration.

    Consultation and DA Process Costs

    Architect Consultation and Assessment: $5,000 to $17,000

    Development Application (DA) Fees: Around $4,000

    Additional Reports (possible requirement): $5,000 to $7,000 for traffic impact and lighting reports

    Necessary permits and approvals from local councils, which can take 6-12 months to obtain.

    Ongoing Billboard Maintenance

    Maintenance Costs static boards: $1,000 to $2,000 (every 2-4 years)

    Maintenance Costs for digital boards: $5,000 to $10,000 (every 2-4 years)

    Regular maintenance, software updates, and hardware repairs, especially for digital billboards.

    Key Considerations to Build a Billboard

    Location & Traffic:  Urban areas with high visibility and heavy traffic typically come with a higher price tag. When considering a location, prioritise accessibility and visibility. Attracting advertisers for your billboard can be challenging without significant traffic (at least 5-10k cars per day).

    Power Supply: Ensure the site can support the required electrical load, especially for digital billboards.

    billboard construction

    Weather and Environmental Factors: Use high-quality, UV-resistant materials to ensure durability and longevity in harsh Australian climates.

    Compliance with Regulations: Adherence to local council regulations and obtaining the necessary permits is crucial. This is the first step in determining whether your billboard project is feasible.

    Building a billboard is a significant investment, but with careful planning and expert guidance, it can be a lucrative advertising asset.

    Can I Build a Billboard on My Property?

    Yes, you can build a billboard on your property, but there are several important regulations and criteria to consider. Here are a few key rules from the “Transport Corridor Outdoor Advertising and Signage Guidelines”:

    Permissibility and Consent: Billboards require development consent unless they are classified as exempt development. You will need to lodge a Development Application (DA) with your local council or the relevant authority.

    Location Restrictions: Advertisements must not be placed in environmentally sensitive areas, heritage areas (excluding railway stations), natural conservation areas, open spaces (with exceptions for sponsorship advertising at sporting facilities), waterways, residential areas (excluding mixed residential and business zones), or scenic protection areas.

    Billboard costs

    Design and Safety Criteria: The design of the billboard must not detract from the amenity or visual quality of the surrounding area, must not obscure significant views, and should contribute to the visual interest of the streetscape or landscape. Additionally, it should not create a safety hazard for road users, pedestrians, or bicyclists.

    Size and Scale: Billboards must adhere to specific size and scale regulations, such as not protruding above the dominant skyline and ensuring compatibility with the surrounding area. For example, freestanding advertisements larger than 45 square meters require a specific design analysis and must align with the area’s planning controls.

    Special Locations: Advertisements on bridges, for instance, have specific criteria to ensure they do not detract from the architectural qualities of the bridge or compromise safety.

    Considering these regulations and obtaining the necessary approvals is essential to ensure your billboard complies with local planning and environmental policies. For more detailed information, you should refer to the full “Transport Corridor Outdoor Advertising and Signage Guidelines” document.

    How Much Does Billboard Advertising Cost Per Month?

    The monthly cost of renting a billboard in various regions of Australia typically ranges from $1,000 to $18,000. Some billboards are two-sided, which can double the potential advertising revenue. Always check with the provider for specific rates and additional features.
    Download Our Innovative Template

    Download Our Template and Create a Solid Digital Marketing Strategy Using ChatGPT




      Other articles you may find interesting

      Influencers in Sydney are reshaping the way brands connect with audiences. The city is home to some of the country’s most influential creators and serves as a fast-moving hub where influencers drive powerful, hyper-local engagement. From Bondi to Surry Hills, Sydney-based content sets trends, fuels product discovery, and influences purchase decisions.  What makes Sydney stand...
      Business Cost of Public Liability Insurance might not be the sexiest line item in your budget, but let’s be honest, it’s the one that could save your business from financial ruin.  In the 90s, there was a well-publicised McDonald’s case where an 85-year-old woman got burned by the chain’s hot coffee. She was awarded hundreds...
      What is metadata framework, and do you really need one? If you’ve ever searched for a client file in your system and ended up buried under irrelevant results, you’ve likely suffered from a lack of metadata structure. It’s the backbone of how modern digital information is stored, searched, and understood, especially in data-heavy fields like...

      Generate more leads and sales with us!