Planning a large shed project this year? You're not alone. The Australian shed market has been on quite a journey over the past few years, from pandemic supply chain chaos to steel prices that seemed to change with the weather. Now that we're settled into 2025, many farmers and business owners are asking the same question: should I build now or wait? For large shed purchases, timing can have a noticeable impact on the final price. Let's look at what's happening in the market and what you can expect for the rest of the year. What's happening with steel prices? Materials drive shed pricing more than any other factor, and the news is mixed. An Altus report shows that steel and copper prices have eased, but energy-intensive materials like concrete and bricks remain costly. The steel market had some ups and downs in early 2025, with suppliers adjusting prices after a relatively stable period. While global market conditions remain volatile, there could be continual vacillations in pricing as we go towards the end of 2025, although it would appear that the fluctuations could be negligible. If you're thinking about a large shed purchase, our Shed Estimate Calculator can help you get current pricing so you know where you stand for planning purposes. Farm shed costs: what you're looking at If you're planning a farm shed, you're probably wondering what you'll actually pay. Our structural steel farm sheds typically range between $175 and $280 per square metre, depending on what you need. Total farm shed costs can range from $50,000 to $270,000, including GST and construction, with the big variation coming down to size, specifications, and design requirements. The type of farm shed you're after makes a huge difference to the price. A basic machinery storage shed will cost less than a specialised grain storage facility with concrete panels. Grain storage sits at the premium end because of the engineering requirements and materials needed to keep your grain in top condition. Industrial and commercial shed pricing For industrial applications, our sheds typically cost between $400 and $500 per square metre, depending on your specifications. Note, however, that this price can change significantly when you add factors like: Stricter building codes that need enhanced structural engineering Energy efficiency requirements that add to material costs Complex systems for larger commercial applications Site-specific engineering for challenging locations If you're looking at a full commercial warehouse with turnkey construction, you're looking at much higher per-square-metre costs because of all the complexity and compliance requirements that come with commercial buildings. School COLA shelters: what schools are paying If you're involved with a school looking at covered outdoor learning areas, our structural steel COLA shelters typically cost between $300 to $400 per square metre. The final price depends on location, size, and design requirements. COLA projects often need careful timing around school schedules, which can affect installation costs. Most schools prefer construction during holiday periods to avoid disruption, but this means competing with other projects for contractor availability. The real cost driver: labour shortages While steel prices get all the headlines, labour costs may be the real wild card for 2025. The Australian Bureau of Statistics reports quarterly price rises driven by increases in labour costs, including wages, superannuation payments and payroll taxes. Construction labour shortages are pushing up installation costs across all types of sheds. The good news is that most building material prices were stable this quarter due to easing input cost growth and softening demand. However, this stability could change if global conditions shift. Location matters more than you think Where you're building can make a real difference to farm shed prices, particularly if you're in a rural or remote area. The further out you are, the more you'll pay to get materials and crews to your site, plus you'll face additional transport and installation challenges. Some councils have stricter engineering requirements, particularly in cyclone-prone areas or bushfire zones, which means additional structural engineering and fire-resistant materials. Regional and remote areas could face delays if specialist equipment needs to be brought in from major cities, and site conditions like rocky ground or poor access can add to earthworks and preparation costs. Should you build now or wait? With steel prices stabilising but labour costs continuing to rise, the timing question comes down to your individual circumstances. Fixed-price contracts become more valuable in an environment where costs could shift, so if you're ready to proceed, securing farm shed prices now makes sense. Ready to take the next step? Our comprehensive Buyer's Guide provides the detailed information you need to start planning your shed.
Large shed prices: will they increase or decrease later in 2025?
Planning a large shed project this year? You're not alone. The Australian shed market has been on ...
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