How to Navigate Knockdown Rebuilds in Melbourne: A Complete Guide

If you love your neighbourhood but not your home, a knockdown rebuild (KDR) might be the smartest move in 2025. Instead of compromising on renovations or relocating, Melburnians are increasingly opting to demolish and start fresh — and Gidaya Group is the trusted partner guiding families, investors, and downsizers through that journey.

Why Consider a Knockdown Rebuild?

• Stay in the location you love — close to schools, transport, family

• Avoid stamp duty and agent fees of selling and buying

• Design a home that fits your current lifestyle

• Add long-term value through energy-efficient upgrades and better layout

Knockdown Rebuild Cost in Melbourne (2025–2026)

Depending on design, site conditions, and finish level, a typical knockdown rebuild in Melbourne costs between $2,400–$3,200 per square metre (including GST).

Factors that influence the cost:

• Demolition complexity (e.g. asbestos, site access)

• Slope and soil classification

• Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) zone overlays

• Heritage or council planning requirements

• Custom design vs. standard layout

Example Range: 25sq home (approx. 232m²) x $2,700/sqm = $626,400 turnkey build cost, plus $25,000–$45,000 in demolition and permits.

Gidaya Group’s Knockdown Rebuild Process

1. Feasibility and Site Assessment

• Review zoning, overlays, and local council controls

• Assess existing services (gas, water, sewer)

• Discuss site constraints (trees, setbacks, neighbours)

2. Demolition Coordination

• Manage permits, disconnections, and safety protocols

• Engage licensed demolition contractors

• Remove all waste to EPA standards

3. Custom Design & Planning

• Bespoke design process tailored to your lifestyle

• Architectural drawings, energy reports, soil tests

• Lodgement with council and/or private building surveyor

4. Fixed-Price Build & Delivery

• Transparent pricing with itemised inclusions

• Site supervision and client portal tracking

• Move-in ready handover

Suburbs Where Knockdown Rebuilds Are Booming

Gidaya Group is actively delivering knockdown-rebuild homes in:

• Inner East: Camberwell, Kew, Glen Iris, Balwyn

• Inner North: Brunswick, Thornbury, Preston, Northcote

• West: Kingsville, Yarraville, Seddon, Footscray

• Outer Growth Areas: Doncaster, Essendon, Eltham, Bentleigh

These suburbs offer generous block sizes, older housing stock, and rising property values — perfect for rebuilding from scratch.

What Permits Do You Need?

• Demolition Permit (via your local council or private building surveyor)

• Planning Permit (if heritage overlay or design controls apply)

• Building Permit (issued after design & engineering is complete)

Gidaya Group manages all regulatory steps on your behalf — we work with both local councils and accredited surveyors.

Common Challenges (and How We Solve Them)

• Heritage controls? We design around them or assist with planning amendments

• BAL rating? We build to comply without compromising design

• Tight access or tricky sites? Our team handles logistics and sequencing

Why Choose Gidaya Group for Your Knockdown Rebuild?

• Custom architectural homes, not cookie-cutter designs

• Dedicated project manager throughout your journey

• Transparent communication, budget tracking, and timely updates

• Experience across diverse suburbs and councils in Victoria

Final Thought

A knockdown rebuild lets you future-proof your lifestyle without leaving your postcode. With Gidaya Group as your builder, you’re supported at every step — from site prep to keys in hand.