Cost of Storage Units in Australia vs Building a Colorbond Shed (2025 Guide)
Looking up the cost of storage units? Before you lock in monthly self storage prices, see how those storage unit rates stack up against owning a custom Colorbond steel shed, a custom-built double garage in Perth, or an affordable carport for Australian homes. This expert guide brings together current Australian pricing, council approval know‑how, Added 2024 WA wind‑rating compliance notes, and cyclone considerations for QLD so you can choose the smartest, long‑term option.
How much does storage cost per month in Australia?
Self storage prices vary by size, city, access, and whether the space is climate‑controlled. Here are typical 2025 storage unit prices we see across metro and regional Australia.
| Common size (approx.) | Use case | Typical price/month | Indicative $/m²/month |
|---|---|---|---|
| Locker (1×1 m) | Documents, boxes | $35–$85 | $35–$85 |
| 1.5×1.5 m (2.25 m²) | Studio overflow | $60–$140 | $27–$62 |
| 3×1.5 m (4.5 m²) | 1 bedroom | $110–$220 | $24–$49 |
| 3×3 m (9 m²) | 2 bedroom | $180–$350 | $20–$39 |
| 6×3 m (18 m²) | Small vehicle, tradie gear | $350–$600 | $19–$33 |
| 9×3 m (27 m²) | Boat and caravan storage | $600–$950 | $22–$35 |
- Climate control: add ~20–35% to the above storage space cost.
- Inner-city premium: CBD and inner suburbs can be 10–30% higher.
- Insurance: often extra.
- Access: 24/7 or drive‑up adds cost; lifts can be cheaper but slower.
- Promos: watch minimum terms after the promo period ends.
If you’re asking “how much does a storage locker cost?” or “how much is self storage per month?”, the short answer is $20–$40 per m² per month for mainstream units, with lockers higher on a per‑m² basis.
Storage unit prices vs owning a premium steel shed — what’s the break‑even?
Rent is ongoing. A Colorbond steel shed is a one‑off capital cost. Here’s a simple way to compare:
Normalise per m² for a fair comparison (storage is smaller, sheds are larger).
- Example 1 (Perth tradie): Renting a 6×3 m unit at $520/month. A custom Colorbond garages Perth build (6×6 m double) installed at $22,000 gives 36 m² at home. Normalised rent ≈ $520/18 m² = $28.9/m²‑mo. Shed amortised over 15 years ≈ $22,000 / (36 m² × 180 months) = $3.40/m²‑mo (+ maintenance ~$0.50). Break‑even in space‑equivalent terms occurs well within the shed’s life, typically in 2–4 years of renting.
- Example 2 (Boat owner, SE QLD): 9×3 m unit at $850/month. A cyclone‑rated carport+enclosure at home for $16,000 pays back in ~19 months.
For ongoing needs (renovators, tradies, investors), owning often wins on total cost of ownership and convenience.
What does a Colorbond steel shed, garage, or carport cost in 2025?
Below are indicative prices for self storage units prices vs self‑build and custom sheds. Allow for site access, slab thickness, wind ratings, BAL, and finish upgrades.
| Building type (common size) | DIY kit (ex‑slab) | Installed (turnkey, ex‑power) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single garage 3×6 m | $4,500–$8,500 | $9,000–$15,000 | Roller door, PA door, gutters |
| Double garage 6×6 m | $7,500–$13,000 | $16,000–$28,000 | Popular for trades/workshops |
| Triple garage 9×6 m | $12,000–$20,000 | $25,000–$40,000 | Extra bays, higher eaves add cost |
| Rural shed 9×12 m | $18,000–$35,000 | $40,000–$80,000 | Farm machinery storage, American barns |
| Carport 6×6 m | $2,500–$5,000 | $6,000–$12,000 | Double car, skillion or gable |
- Concrete slab: typically $110–$160/m² for 100–125 mm with thicken edges; e.g., 36 m² slab ≈ $4,000–$6,000.
- Wind ratings: AS/NZS 1170.2 Regions A–D; cyclone‑rated sheds QLD can add 10–25% for upgraded frames, hold‑downs, and connections.
- BAL (bushfire) upgrades: BAL‑12.5 to BAL‑40 can add $1,500–$8,000 depending on size and details.
- Coastal corrosion (AS 4312 C3–C4): opt for higher‑grade coatings, stainless fixings, and proper wash‑downs.
- Wind Region: Design wind speed zone per AS/NZS 1170.2 (A, B, C, D). C/D = cyclonic.
- BAL: Bushfire Attack Level rating that guides ember/heat resistance requirements.
- Portal frame: Rigid steel frame commonly used in sheds/garages; efficient and strong.
What Are the Best Shed Materials for Perth’s Climate?
Perth summers are hot and dry; coastal suburbs face salt exposure. Here’s a quick Colorbond vs Zincalume comparison for WA. Added 2024 WA wind‑rating compliance notes
| Material | Strengths | Considerations | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colorbond steel | Durable paint system, wide colours, heat‑reflective options, better coastal performance | Slight premium over bare metallic | Most Perth homes, architectural garages, custom Colorbond garages Perth |
| Zincalume | Great value, excellent corrosion resistance inland, clean metallic look | Less ideal close to surf coast; add wash‑downs and detailing | Inland WA, farm outbuildings, budget DIY shed kits |
Thermal comfort matters. Add an anti‑condensation blanket or insulated roof panels; whirlybirds or ridge vents help. For coastal zones (C3–C4), specify marine‑grade fixings and regular maintenance.
Do I need council approval and engineering?
Most council‑approved sheds WA, VIC, NSW and QLD require engineered drawings that meet the NCC (BCA) and AS/NZS 1170.2 wind actions. Smaller sheds may be exempt if they meet size and setback rules. Always confirm with your local council.
How to Get Council Approval for Your Custom Shed in WA
- Site check: Title plan, easements, setbacks, and services.
- Design: Choose gable vs skillion, eaves height, door sizes, and cladding (Colorbond/Zincalume).
- Engineering: Signed calculations for the correct wind region and terrain category. Added 2024 WA wind‑rating compliance notes
- Application: Lodge with drawings, engineering, site plan, and owner consent.
- Build: Concrete slab, portal frames, roofing/walling, gutters/downpipes; final inspection if required.
Cyclone‑rated sheds in QLD: what to know
- Regions C and D demand specific hold‑downs, bracing, and door wind‑locks.
- Roller doors must be wind‑rated; add wind‑locks and narrower spans.
- Expect a 10–25% premium over Region A/B sheds.
Building in bushfire areas (BAL)
- Select compliant doors, screens, gaskets, and flashing details to reduce ember entry.
- Consider non‑combustible sarking, enclosed eaves, and sealed gaps.
Pricing examples and mini case studies
Case 1 — Trades workshop, Northern suburbs Perth
- Brief: 6×6 m double garage with 2.7 m eaves, 2 roller doors, PA door, power‑ready.
- Spec: Colorbond Monument roof/walls, anti‑condensation blanket, vermin‑proofing.
- Cost: $21,500 installed + $5,400 slab.
- Why: Replaces a 6×3 m self storage unit at $520/month. Payback ≈ 4 years; massive convenience gains.
Case 2 — Rural sheds NSW for farm machinery storage
- Brief: 9×12 m with open bays and one enclosed workshop bay.
- Spec: Zincalume cladding, hot‑dip galvanised columns, 3.6 m eaves.
- Cost: $29,000 kit + $18,000 erection + $12,000 slab.
Case 3 — Boat and caravan storage, Brisbane bayside
- Brief: 9×3 m lockable bay + 6×6 m carport.
- Spec: Region C wind‑rated sheds for cyclonic areas, wind‑lock roller doors, coastal fixings.
- Cost: $34,000 turnkey. Replaces $850/month storage; payback ≈ 40 months.
DIY shed kits vs custom‑built — which is cheaper?
| Option | Pros | Cons | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY shed kits | Lowest upfront cost; flexible timing; great for simple sites | Time‑intensive; equipment hire; risk of errors; owner manages approvals | Handy owners, smaller mini storage or workshops |
| Custom‑built (turnkey) | Faster; pro finish; council handled; warranty and compliance | Higher upfront cost | Premium look, council‑approved sheds WA, urban sites, investors |
5‑Step Buying Guide for Custom Sheds in Australia
- Define the job: Tools, boat and caravan storage, or workshop sheds? Size your bays and eaves height.
- Choose materials: Colorbond for coastal/heat, Zincalume inland; consider insulated roof panels.
- Engineer to site: Wind region (A–D), terrain category, corrosion zone, and BAL rating.
- Budget the whole build: Slab, drainage, electrical, driveways, permits, and contingencies (10–15%).
- Compare quotes: Like‑for‑like inclusions: door wind‑rating, flashings, gutters/downpipes, vermin seals, warranties.
FAQs: storage costs and sheds in Australia
How much are storage units per month?
Expect $20–$40 per m² per month for standard units. A 3×3 m (9 m²) is commonly $180–$350/month in metro areas.
How much does it cost for a storage unit long‑term?
Over 3 years, a 3×3 m at $280/month totals about $10,000, not including insurance or price rises.
How much does a storage shed cost to build?
A simple 3×6 m single garage is typically $9,000–$15,000 installed plus slab. Upgrades (insulation, extra height, doors) add more.
What are typical self storage unit rates in Sydney vs Perth?
Sydney tends to be 10–25% higher than Perth for similar sizes, largely due to land and operating costs.
Is a carport cheaper than a garage?
Yes. A 6×6 m carport is often $6,000–$12,000 installed, roughly half a full garage, and ideal for vehicles.
Flat roof vs gable roof — cost difference?
Skillion (flat) roofs are simpler and often cheaper. Gables add headroom, better airflow, and curb appeal, at a modest premium.
Can I finance a shed?
Yes. Many clients use home loan redraws or asset finance for business. We can supply an itemised quote to support applications.
Local compliance, climate and quality notes
- AS/NZS standards: Wind (AS/NZS 1170.2), steel (AS 4100), corrosion (AS 4312).
- NCC/BCA compliance: Engineering certification is standard for council approvals.
- Climate: QLD cyclones (Regions C/D), Perth heat, coastal corrosion, and bushfire BAL ratings affect design and cost.
When a premium shed is the smarter investment
If you’re paying ongoing storage costs, need daily access, or want to add value to your property, a Colorbond steel shed or carport can beat self storage rates within a few years and deliver real lifestyle benefits at home.
Useful resources (Australia)
- Housing Industry Association (HIA) — industry updates and reports (see 2024 Outdoor Structures report).
- Bureau of Meteorology — cyclone and wind region context.
- Australian Steel Institute — steel design and durability guidance.
- CSIRO — bushfire and BAL resources.
- Self Storage Association of Australasia — industry guidance.
- Energy.gov.au — insulation basics for homes and outbuildings.
Keyword clusters covered
cost of storage units; storage unit prices; self storage prices; storage unit rates; storage space cost; storage locker cost; self storage units prices; mini storage prices; self storage unit rates; storage room rates; storage costs; self storage rates; self storage costs; pricing for storage; safe storage prices; how much does a storage facility cost; how much does self storage cost; how much is a storage locker; how much does storage cost; how much for a storage; how much is self storage; how much does a storage locker cost; how much does it cost for a storage unit; how much are storage units; how much are storage facilities; how much is self storage per month; how much is a storage unit per month; how much does a storage shed cost; how much does self storage cost per month; how much does a storage unit cost per month; steel sheds Perth; custom carports Melbourne; rural sheds NSW; wind‑rated sheds for cyclonic areas; Colorbond vs Zincalume comparison; farm machinery storage; DIY shed kits; affordable carports for Australian homes; council‑approved sheds WA; cyclone‑rated sheds QLD; custom Colorbond garages Perth.
Pricing is indicative (AUD, GST incl/excl varies by supplier) and subject to site conditions, engineering, and market changes. Confirm current inclusions, warranties, and compliance with your builder and council.