Concrete Footpaths
A concrete footpath is a pedestrian-only path used to connect different areas of a property, such as a front gate to the door, or a side access to the backyard. Because footpaths only carry foot traffic rather than vehicles, they're generally thinner and less heavily reinforced than a driveway, which keeps the cost per square metre lower.
Pricing guide: How much does a concrete footpath cost?
Concrete footpaths typically cost between $60 and $100 per square metre, less than a driveway because they're thinner and carry lighter loads. Narrow or heavily curved paths can cost more per square metre due to extra formwork.
Why homeowners choose it
- Provides a firm, level, all-weather surface underfoot
- Lower cost per square metre than a vehicle-rated driveway
- Can be curved or shaped to follow garden beds and landscaping
- Finished plain, broomed, coloured or exposed to suit the garden
- Reduces mud and uneven ground being tracked into the house
How it works
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1
Setting out
The path route and width are marked out, often curved to follow landscaping or the shortest practical route.
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2
Excavation and base
Topsoil is excavated along the path, and a compacted base is laid to support the slab.
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3
Formwork
Timber or flexible formwork is set to the path's edges, including any curves or steps in level.
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4
Pour and finish
Concrete is poured, screeded and finished with a broom or other texture suited to a pedestrian surface.
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5
Jointing and curing
Control joints are cut at regular intervals, and the path is left to cure before use.
Hiring guide
Questions worth asking before you commit to a contractor.
Ask to see it, not just take their word for it. Insurance protects your property if something goes wrong on site.
Site preparation, disposal of old material, and any council permits can be included or charged separately — get it in writing before you compare quotes.
Some contractors do the work themselves; others subcontract parts of it. Neither is wrong, but you should know who is doing your job.
Old concrete, tree roots or drainage issues are common surprises. Ask how a change of scope gets costed before it happens, not after.
Materials usually carry a manufacturer's warranty. Ask specifically about the contractor's own workmanship warranty too.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a concrete footpath cost?
Concrete footpaths typically cost between $60 and $100 per square metre, less than a driveway because they're thinner and carry lighter loads. Narrow or heavily curved paths can cost more per square metre due to extra formwork.
How thick does a footpath need to be?
Most pedestrian paths are 75 to 100mm thick over a compacted base, since they only need to carry foot traffic rather than vehicles.
Can a footpath be curved?
Yes, flexible formwork allows a footpath to follow curves around garden beds, trees or other landscaping rather than running in straight lines only.
Do footpaths need reinforcement?
Light mesh reinforcement is common even in footpaths, mainly to control cracking as the concrete cures, though it's less than what's used in a driveway.
Concrete Footpaths in popular suburbs
Local pricing, FAQs and a map for these areas.
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