ConcreteremovalcostinAdelaide(2026)
Removing a 60m2 standard driveway in Adelaide runs $1,800 to $4,500 plus tip fees. Mesh-reinforced slabs cost more. Tight-access sites cost more. Disposal compliance is non-negotiable.
Removal cost by slab type and size
| Slab type | Size | Low | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plain (no mesh) | 60m2 | $1,800 | $3,200 |
| Mesh-reinforced driveway | 60m2 | $2,500 | $4,500 |
| Path (narrow, plain) | 24m2 | $900 | $1,800 |
| Shed slab (heavy, thick) | 30m2 | $1,500 | $3,000 |
Removal labour only. Tip fees ($1,200 to $2,200 for 60m2) are additional. Tight access adds 15 to 25%. 2026 Adelaide rates.
The 4 removal cost drivers
1. Mesh reinforcement. A plain concrete slab breaks into free pieces under a jackhammer. A mesh-reinforced slab holds together and must be saw-cut into panels before lifting. This doubles the equipment time and adds $200 to $500 to a standard 60m2 removal.
2. Slab thickness. Standard residential is 100mm. Workshop and garage slabs are often 125 to 150mm. A 150mm slab is 50% heavier per m2, which increases jackhammer time, panel weight, and tip load.
3. Site access. A bobcat can remove broken concrete from an open driveway in 2 to 3 hours. A tight side-access path where only a hand trolley fits takes 2 to 3 times longer. Tight access adds 15 to 25% to the removal labour cost.
4. Disposal compliance. Concrete must go to a licensed facility. On-site disposal is not permitted without council approval. Tip fees in Adelaide metro run $80 to $140 per tonne. A 60m2 slab at 100mm thickness is roughly 14 to 16 tonnes before accounting for voids. Budget $1,200 to $2,200 for disposal on a standard driveway.
Related guides and service pages
Concrete removal service - what the removal process involves and permit requirements.
Concrete driveway cost - replacement cost after removal.