Concrete Driveway & Slab Cost in Mackay (2026)
Plain, exposed aggregate and decorative concrete pricing across Mackay, Sarina and the Pioneer Valley — straight from a local concreter.
Concrete is the most under-quoted trade in residential construction. A driveway looks simple — until you account for cutting, reo, expansion joints and the small army of finishing hands needed to get the surface right.
Here is what concrete actually costs in the Mackay region in 2026, finish by finish.
Driveway Cost By Finish (2026)
| Finish | Per m² Installed | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Plain grey, broom finish | $95 – $130 | Most common on suburban driveways. Includes reo and standard joints. |
| Coloured / oxide | $130 – $160 | Through-mix oxide for charcoal, slate or sandstone tones. |
| Exposed aggregate | $160 – $210 | Premium driveway finish — durable, non-slip, popular in Blacks Beach builds. |
| Polished concrete (internal) | $180 – $260 | Grind, hone and seal — interior slabs only. |
Why Concrete Quotes Vary So Wildly
- Access: Pump hire vs barrow-and-shovel can swing labour by $2,000+.
- Reo spec: SL72 vs SL82 mesh, plus bar reinforcement on driveway crossovers.
- Slab depth: 100mm domestic vs 125–150mm for boats, trailers or trade vehicles.
- Sub-base prep: Soft black soil blocks need import fill and compaction before the pour.
Sheds, Shed Slabs & Patios
- Standard 6×6 shed slab: $4,200 – $6,500
- 9×6 colorbond shed slab with apron: $7,500 – $11,000
- Alfresco / patio extension slab: $130 – $170 / m²
"A driveway is a 30-year asset. The $1,500 you save on a thinner pour comes back as cracks in year three."
Ready to start your build?
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Get a fixed price quoteFrequently Asked Questions
Do I need council approval for a driveway?+
The driveway itself usually doesn't, but the crossover onto the council verge does — a vehicle crossing permit through Mackay Regional Council is required.
How long before I can drive on new concrete?+
Foot traffic at 24 hours, cars at 7 days, heavy vehicles at 28 days once the slab reaches full design strength.
Should I get reo bar or just mesh?+
Mesh is the minimum. Anywhere a vehicle wheel rolls onto the slab edge (crossovers, driveway entries) we add N12 bar — it stops the corner cracks that plague cheap driveways.
