The Complete Guide to Commercial Painting in Melbourne

Commercial painting does more than give a building a new colour. It protects surfaces from wear, keeps properties in good condition, and makes a space feel professional and welcoming. In Melbourne, where historic buildings sit alongside brand-new developments, painting projects need the right planning, preparation, and a team that knows how to handle different building types.

In this guide, we’ll cover the essentials of commercial painting. You’ll learn what constitutes a commercial project, how jobs are scoped and delivered, the factors that influence cost, and the safety standards applicable in Victoria. We’ll also touch on how to look after your property once the work is done, so the finish lasts as long as possible.

Table Of Contents

This guide covers everything you need to know about commercial painting in Melbourne. It explores project planning, pricing, safety, maintenance, and how to choose the right contractor. Use the links below to navigate to the sections that matter most to your project.

1. Commercial Painting Basics
   • What Is Commercial Painting?
   • What Are the Benefits of Hiring a Professional for Commercial Painting?
   • What Types of Properties Are Considered Commercial?
   • How Does Commercial Painting Differ From Industrial and Residential Painting?
   • What Are the Different Types of Commercial Painting Services?
2. Planning and Delivering a Commercial Painting Project
   • What Is Involved in Surface Preparation Before Painting?
   • What Types of Paints and Coatings Are Best for Commercial Environments?
3. How Long Does a Commercial Project Usually Take, and What Affects Timelines?
4. Choosing the Right Commercial Painter
5. Pricing and Inclusions
   • How Much Does Commercial Painting Cost in Melbourne?
   • Key pricing factors
   • What Access Equipment Might Be Needed, and Is It Included in the Quote?
6. Safety, Compliance, and Approvals
7. Maintenance and Longevity

Commercial Painting Basics

What Is Commercial Painting?

Commercial painting covers the painting and finishing of buildings that are open to the public, occupied by multiple tenants, or used as workplaces. These projects are often on a larger scale than residential jobs and may involve a mix of surfaces such as concrete, steel, plaster, and timber. Access can also be more challenging, with high walls, ceilings, or facades that require specialised equipment.

Unlike residential painting, commercial projects operate under tighter timeframes and must comply with building codes and safety regulations. Work often occurs outside business hours to minimise disruption. The scope extends beyond colour application to include surface preparation, protective coatings, and finishes that withstand high-traffic commercial environments while coordinating with other trades and property managers.

What Are the Benefits of Hiring a Professional for Commercial Painting?

Hiring a professional makes a difference because commercial painting involves more than just applying paint. Skilled contractors bring expertise in preparing surfaces, choosing the right coatings, and working safely. Here are some of the key benefits:

• Proper surface prep – Ensures paint sticks and lasts longer.
• Durable coatings – Chosen for high-traffic areas and tough environments.
• Meets safety standards – Compliance with local regulations and site safety.
• Efficient project management – Keeps things on track and reduces downtime.
• Long-lasting results – Paint job stays intact longer, with less maintenance.
• Reduced rework – Less chance of mistakes or issues down the line.

What Types of Properties Are Considered Commercial?

Commercial properties are buildings that people use for work, education, healthcare, or public access.

Commercial properties include:

• Offices, retail stores, and shopping centres
• Schools, TAFEs, and universities 
• Hospitals, clinics, and aged care facilities - Explore our tips on painting your healthcare facility
• Government buildings and community centres 
• Strata-managed apartments and mixed-use complexes - Explore how to choose the right body corporate painters
• Warehouses and hospitality venues

How Does Commercial Painting Differ From Industrial and Residential Painting?

Commercial projects are larger and more regulated than residential but less hazardous than industrial work.

Residential painting is the most straightforward. Contractors work with homeowners who want their property to look good, using standard paints and basic equipment. It's primarily about creating spaces that are comfortable and attractive.

Industrial painting is at the other extreme. Think of factories and warehouses where paint needs to protect against chemicals, heat, and heavy wear. Safety is paramount, and the coatings are heavy-duty rather than aesthetically focused.

Commercial painting falls somewhere in between. Contractors work on offices, shops, and public buildings where appearance matters, but the paint also needs to withstand significant foot traffic and daily use. Projects are larger than residential jobs, involve more stakeholders making decisions, and often require working outside of business hours. Commercial painting contractors also deal with stricter building codes and may need specialised equipment for high ceilings or large facades.

What Are the Different Types of Commercial Painting Services?

Commercial painting can involve a range of services, such as:

• Interior painting – finishes for walls, ceilings, trims, and doors that can handle daily use. Often, low-VOC paints are chosen for healthier indoor spaces.
• Exterior painting – protective coatings for facades, cladding, render, brick, and timber that help resist weather and improve appearance.
• Repainting and refurbishments – updates for older surfaces, or colour changes to suit a rebrand or modern upgrade.
• Maintenance painting – regular upkeep to extend coating life, keep surfaces consistent, and avoid costly repairs later.

Line marking and specialty finishes – clear markings for carparks and warehouses, plus specialist coatings such as slip-resistant, anti-graffiti, or fire-retardant paints.

Planning and Delivering a Commercial Painting Project

How Is a Project Planned and Delivered?

Good commercial painting projects don't just happen. They require proper planning and clear processes to avoid delays, cost blowouts, and unhappy tenants.

1. Initial consultation and site inspection

Meeting on-site to understand what needs painting, any access challenges, and timing requirements. This is where you discuss whether work needs to be done after hours or can be completed during business hours.

2. Surface assessment and scope documentation

Checking the condition of existing surfaces, identifying any necessary repairs, and documenting the exact work to be done. This prevents disputes later about what was included.

3. Planning and scheduling

Coordinating with building management, tenants, and any other trades. For larger projects, this might involve staging the work across different areas or time periods.

4. Permits and approvals

Obtaining any required approvals. This might include body corporate approval, council permits for external work, or coordination with building management.

5. Project execution

Following the agreed-upon timeline, with regular communication about progress and any issues that arise.

6. Final inspection and handover

Ensuring everything meets the agreed standards before the job is considered complete.

What Is Involved in Surface Preparation Before Painting?

Surface preparation takes up more time than the actual painting, but it makes the difference between a job that lasts and one that fails within a year or two. The work required depends on what you're dealing with. Newer buildings in good condition typically require minimal preparation, while older buildings with damaged surfaces may need extensive repair work before any paint is applied.

Surface preparation typically involves:

1. Cleaning 

Removes dirt, grease, and loose material that would prevent paint from sticking properly. Commercial exteriors might need pressure washing, while internal walls usually just need thorough cleaning to remove dust and grime.

2. Repairs 

Address any damage before painting begins. This could be filling small nail holes in an office, patching larger holes in plaster walls, or fixing damaged render on external surfaces. Getting this right means the finished job looks professional and lasts longer. A great step to take before choosing a commercial painting company is ensuring that they will take care of plaster & render repairs, and carpentry repairs.

3. Sanding and priming 

Prepare different surfaces for painting. Timber needs sanding to create a smooth base, metal surfaces might need special primers to prevent rust, and previously painted surfaces may need light sanding to help the new paint stick.

4. Protection

Covers everything that shouldn't get paint on it. In commercial buildings, this includes floors, furniture, equipment, and sometimes entire areas that need to stay operational during the work. Good protection saves time and money on cleanup later.

What Types of Paints and Coatings Are Best for Commercial Environments?

The right paint for a commercial environment depends on where it's being used and what it needs to withstand. Different areas of a commercial building have different requirements.

Standard Commercial Paints

Acrylic paints are the preferred choice for most commercial interiors and exteriors. They dry quickly, resist fading, and have low VOC content, which is important for occupied buildings like offices, schools, and healthcare facilities. These paints handle everyday wear and tear while maintaining good indoor air quality.

High-traffic formulations use harder-wearing paint chemistry for busy areas like corridors, stairwells, and lobbies. These paints cost more upfront but save money over time because they last longer. They're designed to handle constant use without showing scuff marks or wearing through quickly.

Heavy-Duty Coatings

Epoxy coatings suit areas that need serious durability, like commercial kitchens, warehouses, or manufacturing spaces. These coatings resist chemicals, moisture, and heavy wear better than standard paints. They're often used on floors and walls in industrial-type commercial spaces.

Polyurethane coatings offer similar benefits to epoxy, but with improved UV resistance, making them suitable for areas with abundant natural light or exterior applications. They handle weather changes well and resist scratching and chemical damage.

Finishes and Specialty Options

Finish selection matters as much as paint type. Semi-gloss and gloss finishes are easier to clean and work well in high-traffic areas, bathrooms, and kitchens. Matte finishes hide surface imperfections better but are more difficult to clean, making them suitable for lower-traffic areas, such as private offices. Specialised coatings might be required for specific situations. Antibacterial coatings are sometimes necessary in healthcare or food preparation areas, although they're not always required. Some commercial spaces require fire-retardant paints or other specialty products, depending on building codes and usage. Explore our guide about choosing the right finish.

Additionally, it's important to consider how the colours you choose impact the psychology of the people who'll see your commercial building. Odds are that either your customers or employees will be seeing your property on a regular basis, so ensuring you're considering how this can shape customer experience and perception is crucial. Find out more in our guide on the importance of colour in commercial painting.

Last but not least, it's important to choose a trusted paint brand that guarantees quality. At Resolute Painting & Projects, we have access to a range of brands available in Melbourne. This gives us access to a broad range of colours and coats for any situation.

How Long Does a Commercial Project Usually Take, and What Affects Timelines?

When it comes to commercial painting, no two projects ever run to the same clock. A small office makeover might be wrapped up in just a few days, while a sprawling multi-storey complex can keep painters busy for weeks on end. The difference often comes down to scale, access, and the little curveballs that every building throws into the mix.

Typical Timeframes

• Small offices or retail spaces: Usually completed in 2–5 days, provided surfaces are in decent condition and painters can work during regular hours.
• Medium-sized buildings (schools, office complexes): Expect approximately 1–3 weeks for interiors, with an additional 2–4 weeks if the exterior is also included.
• Large or complex sites: These can take 4–8 weeks, particularly if multiple floors or major preparation work are involved.
• External-only multi-storey projects: Often span 2–6 weeks, with weather and access playing a big role.

What Affects Timelines?

• Restricted working hours – limiting painters to evenings or weekends can stretch a quick 5-day job into 2–3 weeks.
• Surface preparation – neglected paintwork or damaged walls can add 30–50% more time.
• Access challenges – scaffolding, tight lifts, or working around operational areas all slow things down.
• Weather – Melbourne’s unpredictable skies can hold up exterior projects by days or even weeks.

Other trades – coordinating with electricians, repair crews, or maintenance teams can extend timelines significantly.

How Do Painters Minimise Disruption to Tenants, Customers, or Staff?

Painters aim to minimise disruption by adjusting their work methods to suit the site. This often means scheduling jobs outside business hours, during holiday periods, or at quieter times of day. Larger projects are staged so only small sections are closed off at once, allowing the rest of the building to remain in use. 

Low-odour and quick-drying paints are chosen where possible to speed up re-entry and reduce inconvenience. Just as important, painters maintain open communication with tenants, staff, and managers so that everyone is aware of which areas will be affected and when.

Choosing the Right Commercial Painter

What Should I Look For in a Commercial Painting Contractor in Melbourne?

When choosing a painter for a commercial project, look for a contractor with the skills, resources, and systems to manage the specific challenges of larger or shared buildings.

Experience and credentials

• Experience: Look for contractors with proven commercial experience in similar projects. Residential painters may not understand the compliance demands of schools, hospitals, or shopping centres.
• Credentials: Check they have proper licensing, public liability insurance, and workers' compensation.
• Industry recognition: Membership in organisations such as the Master Painters Association of Victoria (Master Painters Australia) and Cm3 (workplace safety) demonstrates that they meet industry standards.

At Resolute Painting, we are an experienced team specialising in commercial painting in Melbourne. We are accredited and part of associations, and we have received industry recognition, including winning multiple Master Painter awards. Find out more about our team and our story.

Research and capacity

• Read online reviews focusing on communication, timing, and problem-solving. Get multiple quotes and check their portfolio for projects matching your building type.
• Make sure they have adequate staff and equipment for your job size. A team that's too small will struggle with commercial deadlines.

Project management

• Choose contractors who provide a dedicated project manager and regular updates. You want one point of contact who coordinates everything without needing constant input from you.
• They should understand how to work around business operations with flexible scheduling, proper equipment protection, and minimal noise and dust disruption.
• A common gripe of businesses that require any tradesmanship is the lack of transparency and communication. Choosing a business that is proactive in communication and clearly communicates its process is paramount. Explore our process.

Pricing and Inclusions

How Much Does Commercial Painting Cost in Melbourne?

Commercial painting costs vary significantly, but here are some typical pricing structures used in Melbourne:

Per square metre rates are the most common pricing method. Interior commercial work typically costs $25-35 per square metre for basic projects, with more complex jobs reaching $40-50 per square metre. Exterior work ranges from $20-30 per square metre for standard buildings, increasing for multi-storey buildings that require access equipment.

Hourly rates might be used for smaller touch-up jobs or repair work, typically ranging from $60-80 per hour for qualified commercial painters. However, most commercial projects are quoted as fixed prices to provide cost certainty.

Project examples help put these rates in context:

• Small office spaces (100-300 sqm) might cost $3,000 to $12,000 for interior work
• Larger office buildings could range from $15,000 to $60,000 or more
• External building painting varies – simple single-storey buildings might cost $10,000 to $20,000, while multi-storey buildings can cost $50,000 to $200,000 or more. Explore our insights on how external painting can improve property value

These are rough guides only. Every commercial project is different, and the only way to get accurate pricing is through a proper site inspection and a detailed quote. It’s best to consult a local commercial painting contractor to obtain a clear understanding of the costs associated with your building.

What's Typically Included In A Quote, and What Factors Influence Pricing?

A good commercial painting quote should break down what's included, allowing you to compare different contractors properly. 

A quote will typically include:

• Labour costs (60-70% of total cost) include preparation, painting, and cleanup. This increases for after-hours work or complex coordination.
• Surface preparation covers cleaning, sanding, repairs, and priming. Poor surface condition can add 30-50% to preparation costs.
• Materials include all paints, primers, and supplies, typically costing $8-12 per square metre and representing 20-25% of the total project cost.
• Access equipment, such as scaffolding or lifts, can add 15-25% to the costs for multi-storey buildings.
• Project management and cleanup might be listed separately, typically adding 5-10% and 2-5% respectively, to total costs.

Key pricing factors

• Surface condition has the biggest impact – damaged surfaces can increase costs by 30-60% compared to those in good condition.
• Project complexity affects pricing significantly. Intricate designs, multiple colours, or custom work can add 10-30% to costs.
• Working conditions, such as after-hours work, typically cost 50-100% more due to penalty rates.
• Access challenges for high-rise or difficult locations can increase costs by 20-40%.
• Paint type varies widely – specialised coatings like antimicrobial paints cost more than standard commercial paints.
• Seasonal timing can impact pricing during peak seasons, such as spring and summer, when demand is higher.

What Access Equipment Might Be Needed, and Is It Included in the Quote?

Access equipment is often required for multi-storey or difficult-to-reach areas. Depending on the building, this may involve:

• Scaffolding is standard for multi-storey external work. It requires more upfront cost but provides safe, stable access for detailed work.
• Scissor lifts and boom lifts are more flexible than scaffolding and work well for many commercial projects. They can be moved around as needed and don't block access like scaffolding can.
• Ladders and trestles handle simpler access requirements but have limitations on height and the type of work that can be conducted safely.

Some contractors include the cost of this equipment in their quote, while others list it separately. It’s worth confirming early so you know exactly what is and isn’t covered.

Safety, Compliance, and Approvals

What are the compliance and safety standards for commercial painting projects in Victoria?

Commercial painting in Victoria operates under several regulatory frameworks that don't apply to residential work.

WorkSafe Victoria requirements cover occupational health and safety for all commercial painting projects. This includes proper safety equipment, training records, and specific procedures for working at heights. Contractors must have current WorkSafe compliance and know how to implement safety management systems on commercial sites.

Licensing requirements vary depending on the project value and type. Painters working on commercial projects need appropriate trade licenses, and larger projects may require building permits. General building licenses are necessary for projects that involve structural work in addition to painting.

Insurance obligations include public liability and professional indemnity insurance with coverage levels appropriate for commercial work. Workers' compensation insurance is mandatory for any contractor with employees.

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) must be available for all products used on commercial sites. This includes paints, primers, solvents, and cleaning products. Site personnel require access to this information, and specific handling procedures may be applicable.

VOC compliance refers to the limits on volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in paints used in occupied buildings. Some commercial buildings, particularly healthcare and education facilities, have specific requirements for low-emission products.

Working at heights regulations apply to any work above two metres. This covers safety equipment, training requirements, and rescue procedures. Commercial painters need current working at heights certification and appropriate safety systems.

Are Council Permits or Approvals Required for Commercial Painting?

Permit requirements for commercial painting depend on the location, building type, and scope of work.

External painting on heritage buildings or in heritage overlay areas typically requires council approval. This applies to colour changes, not just maintenance painting. The approval process can take several weeks, so factor this into project timelines.

Scaffolding permits may be required if scaffolding extends over public land, footpaths, or roads. This is common for multi-storey buildings in busy areas. Council permits for scaffolding usually involve fees and specific safety requirements.

Building permits become necessary when painting work involves structural changes, such as repairing damaged render or replacing weatherboards. Simple painting over existing surfaces typically doesn't require building permits.

Body corporate approval is required for strata and owners' corporation buildings, even when no council permits are needed. This process varies between buildings but often requires detailed proposals and can take time to get through committees. Explore our tips for navigating the rules and regulations of strata painting in Melbourne.

Occupancy considerations might require coordination with building management about access, timing, and safety procedures, particularly in mixed-use buildings or those with 24/7 operations.

What Safety Measures Are Taken On Commercial Sites?

Safety on commercial sites is more complicated than residential work because you're dealing with public access, multiple building users, and often tricky working conditions.

To manage this, several layers of protection are put in place:

Worker Protection and Site Security

• Personal protective equipment (PPE): Hard hats, high-vis vests, safety glasses, and steel-toed boots are standard.
• Fall protection: Harnesses and safety lines are required for work above two metres, designed to function safely around building users and complex layouts.
• Site barriers and signage: Temporary fencing, warning signs, and designated walkways keep unauthorised people out of dangerous zones.

Chemical and Air Quality Management

• Safe storage of paints and solvents prevents spills or leaks.
• Ventilation planning ensures both workers and building occupants are protected from fumes and dust.

Emergency Procedures and Compliance

• Emergency planning: Must integrate with existing building systems, including evacuation routes and coordination with building management.
• Fire safety compliance: Work must not interfere with alarms, sprinklers, emergency lighting, or legally required exit routes.

External Work Considerations

• Traffic management: Coordination with councils may be necessary to manage pedestrian flow while maintaining vehicle access.
• Equipment checks: Regular inspections ensure scaffolding, lifts, and safety gear remain in safe working order throughout the project.

Maintenance and Longevity

How Often Should a Commercial Building Be Repainted, and What Maintenance Is Required?

The lifespan of a paint job depends on the type of building, the coatings used, and the conditions to which it’s exposed. On average, commercial properties in Melbourne benefit from repainting every 7 to 10 years. High-traffic interiors or exteriors exposed to harsh sun and weather may need attention sooner.

Regular maintenance helps extend the life of a paint job and reduces costs over time. 

Common upkeep includes:

• Scheduled inspections – identifying wear and tear before it becomes major damage.
• Touch-ups – addressing chips, scratches, or high-use areas to keep surfaces consistent.
• Cleaning – removing dirt, graffiti, or mould to preserve coatings and appearance.
• Protective recoating – applying sealers or topcoats in areas that face extra wear.

A consistent maintenance plan keeps buildings looking professional, reduces long-term repair costs, and ensures that coatings continue to protect the underlying structure.

Ready to Discuss Your Project?

If you’re planning a commercial painting project in Melbourne, it's helpful to have a team that understands the details involved. At Resolute Painting and Projects, we handle everything from surface preparation and access equipment to permits and repairs, so the process runs smoothly from start to finish.

Contact our team to discuss your requirements and arrange a customised quote.