How Much Does a Concrete Driveway Cost in Cairns? (2026 Price Guide)
How much does a concrete driveway cost in Cairns? A 2026 price guide covering plain, exposed aggregate and stamped concrete, plus what drives the price.
Concrete isn’t just grey and flat anymore. The finish you choose changes the entire look of a driveway, patio or pool surround — and it also affects the price, the maintenance and how the surface performs in Far North Queensland’s heat and rain. If you’re weighing up your options, here’s a straightforward guide to the main concrete finishes available in Cairns, what each one suits, and roughly what you’ll pay.
The four main concrete finishes
1. Plain (trowel or broom) concrete
The classic, most affordable option. A broom finish — where the surface is lightly brushed before it sets — gives a subtle texture that’s practical and slip-resistant, which is why it’s the go-to for driveways, paths and shed slabs. Plain concrete is hard-wearing, low-maintenance and timeless.
- Look: Clean, simple, understated
- Typical cost: $80–$130 per m²
- Best for: Driveways, paths, garage and shed slabs, anywhere on a budget
2. Coloured concrete
Adding oxide to the mix (or applying a colour hardener) tints the whole slab. It’s an easy, cost-effective way to add warmth or match your home’s palette without moving to a fully decorative finish. Earthy tones are popular in Cairns because they hide dust and the occasional mark.
- Look: Solid colour, still smooth or broomed
- Typical cost: $100–$150 per m²
- Best for: Homeowners wanting character without a big price jump
3. Exposed aggregate
Exposed aggregate reveals the small stones within the concrete by washing back the top layer of cement. The result is a textured, speckled surface that looks premium and — importantly for our climate — stays grippy when wet. It’s one of the most popular choices in Cairns for exactly that reason, especially around pools and on sloped driveways.
- Look: Natural, textured, high-end
- Typical cost: $120–$200 per m²
- Best for: Driveways, pool surrounds, patios, wet-season slip resistance
4. Stamped (decorative) concrete
Stamped concrete is pressed with moulds while still wet to mimic pavers, natural stone, slate or even timber decking — at a fraction of the cost and with far less maintenance than the real thing. It’s the most decorative option and the most labour-intensive, so it sits at the top of the price range, but the effect is striking.
- Look: Patterned to imitate stone, pavers, brick or timber
- Typical cost: $150–$250+ per m²
- Best for: Feature patios, entertaining areas, statement driveways and pool surrounds
Which finish is right for you?
It comes down to three things: budget, the look you’re after, and where the concrete is going.
| If you want… | Consider |
|---|---|
| The lowest cost and maximum durability | Plain broom finish |
| A touch of colour on a budget | Coloured concrete |
| Premium looks + slip resistance for FNQ rain | Exposed aggregate |
| A feature surface that imitates stone or pavers | Stamped concrete |
A few things to keep in mind in the Cairns climate
Whatever finish you choose, two things matter just as much as the look. First, slip resistance — our wet season means smooth, polished surfaces can get slippery, so textured finishes (broom or exposed aggregate) are smart choices for outdoor areas. Second, sealing — decorative and coloured finishes should be sealed and re-sealed periodically to protect the colour and surface from UV and heavy rain. We’ll always talk you through the maintenance before you commit.
It’s also worth getting the basics right underneath the finish. The best-looking driveway in Cairns will still crack if the slab is too thin or poorly reinforced for the ground it sits on. Our guide to concrete slab thickness in Cairns covers what’s needed, and if you’re budgeting, our concrete driveway cost guide breaks down the numbers.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most popular concrete finish in Cairns?
Exposed aggregate is one of the most popular choices locally because it looks premium and stays slip-resistant when wet — a real benefit during the wet season. Plain broom finish remains the most common for budget-conscious driveways.
Is stamped concrete slippery when wet?
It can be, depending on the pattern and sealer used. We use non-slip additives in the sealer for outdoor stamped areas to keep them safe around pools and entertaining spaces.
How much more does a decorative finish cost than plain concrete?
As a rough guide, expect to pay $40–$120+ more per square metre for exposed aggregate or stamped concrete compared with a plain broom finish. The exact difference depends on the pattern, colour and site.
Do decorative concrete finishes need sealing?
Yes. Coloured, exposed aggregate and stamped finishes should be sealed on completion and re-sealed every few years to protect the surface and colour from UV and rain.
Talk to a local concreting team
Not sure which finish suits your project or budget? We’ll show you samples, explain the trade-offs, and recommend the right option for your space and the Cairns climate. Explore our concreting services in Cairns or request a free quote today.
