Electrician call-out and fault-finding charges in Melbourne

Two published charging models

Home Upkeep's 2026 Melbourne electrician cost guide lists an indicative $80–$150 call-out fee. This is one secondary website's estimate, not a verified Melbourne market average, an actual quote or a total for diagnosis and repair. POWERWORX describes a different model: no separate call-out fee, but a fixed charge for the first 30 minutes on site followed by an hourly rate billed in 30-minute increments. POWERWORX does not publish the amounts, and its rates depend on the work and booking time. These are not directly comparable prices. Ask each business for the minimum total including GST, how much fault-finding time it covers and what is payable if no repair is completed. (Sources checked 18 October 2026.)

Three different services

Attendance: the electrician comes to the property; the first fee may include some labour or testing.

Fault finding: the electrician investigates the reported problem and may recommend further tests or a separate repair. For what to ask after a fault is found, see After an electrician finds a fault: what to ask before repairs

Repair or installation: work to fix an identified fault or install components. Confirm whether materials, testing and required electrical safety paperwork are included.

Questions before booking

You can send: “What is the minimum total including GST if you attend but don't complete a repair, how much diagnosis time does that cover, and what will extra time or a second visit cost?”

For checking the business and electrician's licence, see How to check a Victorian electrician's licence and electrical paperwork. For full switchboard work, see Understanding a switchboard-work quotation in Victoria.

1. Is the first charge for attendance only, or does it include inspection and fault finding?

2. How much time is included, and what is charged if the work takes longer?

3. Are parts, GST, travel and an additional visit included?

4. If installation work is needed, will the quote cover the appropriate Certificate of Electrical Safety or any required inspection?

If there is an electrical hazard

A shock or tingling from an appliance or tap needs an immediate call to your electricity distributor and inspection by a licensed electrician, according to Energy Safe Victoria. Keep away from exposed wiring, sparking or damaged equipment and seek urgent qualified help. If there is fire or an immediate threat to life, call 000. Do not attempt your own fixed-wiring repairs.