Your website is your business’s online salesperson, working 24/7 to attract customers and showcase your products or services. But what happens when your website becomes outdated or frustrating to navigate?
  • If potential customers are bouncing away instead of sticking around, it might be time for a website redesign.

This guide will explore website redesign costs in Australia. We’ll break down the difference between DIY website redesign options and professional help available for website redesign in Australia, the impact of features on the price tag, and how to plan for the future to get the most out of your website investment.

Doing it Yourself vs. Hiring a Pro

The biggest factor affecting your website redesign cost is whether you do it yourself (DIY) or hire a professional.

The cost of your website revamp will depend on the level of expertise you bring to the table. DIY through website builder platforms is the most budget-friendly option, but it comes with limitations to design and features. Hiring a freelance web designer offers more customisation for a mid-range price, while going with a WordPress web design agency unlocks the most creative potential and comprehensive features, but will naturally be the most expensive route.

1. The DIY Approach: Budget-Friendly Makeover

A person using a wireless mouse next to a computer keyboard on a wooden desk, while considering the costs of a website redesign for 2024.
The do-it-yourself approach is the most cost-effective way to redesign your website. This route offers two main options: website builder platforms and self-hosted WordPress.

Website Builder Platforms

Website builder platforms like Wix and Squarespace offer user-friendly interfaces and a vast library of beautiful templates. These are ideal for businesses that:

  • Are comfortable with technology: Building a website with a builder platform usually involves dragging and dropping elements, editing text, and uploading images. But some basic technical know-how is still helpful.

  • Have a simple website: If your website is primarily informational, showcasing your products or services without complex features, a DIY builder can be sufficient.

  • Have a tight budget: Costs typically range from free (with limited features and branding) to a few hundred dollars per year for premium plans. However, always consider the time investment required, as all options will require someone to learn and manage the platform.

WordPress

WordPress is a powerful open-source content management system (CMS) that offers more flexibility and customisation compared to website builders. However, it requires a bit more technical knowledge to set up and maintain. Businesses that:

  • Want more control over design and functionality: WordPress allows for a wider range of customisation options through themes and plugins.

  • Plan to grow their website in the future: WordPress is scalable and can accommodate complex features as your small business evolves.

While WordPress offers a free basic version, you’ll need to factor in additional costs like website hosting (typically around $3-10 per month) and potentially a premium theme or plugins (ranging from a one-time fee to annual subscriptions).

Limitations of DIY

Both website builders and WordPress have limitations to consider. Highly customised designs or complex functionalities might be difficult to achieve. Additionally, ongoing website maintenance and updates often fall on the WordPress website owner. Cheap websites are a bit of a myth, unfortunately, because this admin work is going to pull people away from other tasks.

If your redesign does involve complex features, a significant expansion of products, or ongoing development, then hiring a freelance web designer or a web design agency might be a better option.

2. The Freelance Route: Balancing Expertise and Cost

The Upwork website landing page showcases the tagline "Build your business with top freelancers" and proudly boasts a clients' rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars based on over 2.5M+ reviews, thanks to a recent website makeover.

For businesses seeking a more customised website redesign than a DIY approach can offer, hiring a freelance web designer provides a middle ground between cost and expertise. If you don’t have any existing connections, it’s easy to find local freelance designers and web developers through reputable sites like Upwork or Freelancer.

Consider a freelancer if:

  • Your website needs some custom design elements or functionalities, but not a complete overhaul. Freelancers can create unique layouts and integrate features that go beyond basic website builder templates.

  • You have a clear vision for your website and a moderate budget. Freelancers offer a range of experience levels and pricing structures, allowing you to find someone who fits your needs and budget.

Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of hiring a freelance web designer:

Pros

Cost-effective:

Typically more affordable than a web design agency.​

Flexibility:

Freelancers often offer more personalised attention and can work within your specific timeframe.

Direct communication:

You'll have a direct line of communication with the person designing your website.

Cons

Variable experience:

Researching and vetting freelancers can be time-consuming.​

Project management responsibility:

You'll need to manage the project timeline and communication with the freelancer.

Limited resources:

Freelancers may not have access to the same level of resources as a larger agency.

Cost considerations

Freelance web designer rates can vary greatly depending on experience, location, and project complexity. In Australia, expect freelance rates to range from $800 to $20,000 for a website redesign. Be sure to get quotes from several freelancers and clearly define your project scope before making a decision.

3. Partnering with a Web Design Agency: The Full-Service Approach

A group of people holding pens collaborates around a table with documents and charts spread out, discussing the costs involved in the website redesign project planned for 2024.

For businesses requiring a comprehensive website redesign with complex features or a strategic digital presence, hiring a web design agency in Australia is the most reliable solution.

Consider an agency if:

  • Your website needs a complete overhaul, including branding, design, and development of complex functionalities. Agencies have teams of experienced designers, developers, and strategists who can create complicated websites that are not only visually appealing but also optimised for conversions and search engines.

  • You want a data-driven approach to your website. Agencies can provide ongoing analytics and marketing expertise to help you measure the success of your website and make data-driven decisions for improvement.

  • You lack the internal resources or expertise to manage a website redesign project. Agencies handle all aspects of the project, from initial concept to launch and ongoing maintenance.

Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of hiring a web design agency in Australia:

Pros

Expertise and experience:

Agencies have a team of specialists who can handle all aspects of your website redesign.

Strategic approach:

Agencies can develop a comprehensive digital strategy that aligns with your overall business goals.

Project management:

Agencies will handle the project timeline, communication, and vendor management.

Cons

Cost:

Web design agencies are typically the most expensive option.

Potential for slower turnaround times:

Large agencies may have multiple projects on the go, which could lead to longer wait times for revisions or updates.

Potential for less personal connection:

Communication with an agency might involve interacting with multiple team members, leading to a less personal touch compared to working directly with a freelancer.

What to Look for in an Australian Web Design Agency

Partnering with a web design agency should be a carefully considered decision. A well-designed website is an investment that can positively impact your brand image, lead generation, and sales for years to come. Conversely, a poorly designed website can damage your brand reputation, frustrate potential customers, and hinder your online success. Therefore, choosing the right agency is crucial. Here are some key factors to consider:

Client-Centric Approach

Look for an agency with a team that is friendly, approachable, and prioritises clear communication. An ideal agency will assign you a dedicated point of contact who listens attentively to your needs and ensures your vision is translated effectively throughout the design process.

Experience and Client Satisfaction

Look for an agency with a proven track record of success in your industry. Search for projects similar to yours on their website and ask for case studies.

Find reviews and testimonials from past clients to get a sense of the agency’s work ethic and client satisfaction. Look for mentions of clear communication, a collaborative process, and a focus on achieving results.

Long-Term Vision

Think ahead, from the start. Look for a company that creates long-term partnerships with clients. An agency that’s invested in your success is more likely to go the extra mile to ensure your website meets your evolving needs.

Full-Service Capabilities

Choose a web design company that offers it all. A full-service web design company will assist you every step of the way, from initial concept and design to development, launch, and ongoing maintenance. This can include services like search engine optimisation (SEO), content marketing, social media marketing, and pay-per-click (PPC) advertising. Having a single agency handle all aspects of your digital marketing can streamline the process and ensure all your efforts are cohesive.

Local Expertise

Hire local. Local web design companies have a strong understanding of the Australian market and consumer trends. They also have experience working with other local companies in your industry, which can be a valuable asset. Additionally, communication and collaboration tend to be smoother when working in the same time zone with a local agency that understands your cultural nuances.

Website Redesign Pricing in Australia

A person using a calculator and holding a piece of paper at a desk, with documents and a laptop nearby, is calculating the 2024 website redesign costs.
  • Think about what you need your website to do in the future. Will you need ongoing maintenance or want to add new features later on? Factoring these things in from the start can help you avoid unexpected costs down the road.
The cost of revamping your website depends on the approach you take and the complexity of the redesign. Here’s a breakdown of the different options and their estimated costs:

Simple Website Redesign

This involves refreshing the design and content of an existing website with 7-10 pages. Costs range from:

DIY: Free (with limited features) to a few hundred dollars per year for website builder plans.
Freelancer: $2,500 to $5,000+
Agency: $5,000 to $10,000+

Custom Website Design

This offers a more personalised design and potentially new functionalities for a 7-10 page website. Costs typically range from:

Freelancer: $4,500 to $8,500+
Agency: $15,000 to $30,000+

Content Management System (CMS) Website

This utilises platforms like WordPress, offering more flexibility and scalability for future growth. Costs range from:

Freelancer: (with development): $5,500 to $10,000+
Agency: Similar to custom website design costs.

E-commerce Website Redesign

This involves revamping an online store with shopping cart functionalities and secure payment gateways. Costs start from:

Freelancer: $8,500 to $20,000+
Agency: $40,000 to $75,000+ (can be higher for complex stores)

Large-Scale Website Projects

Highly complex websites with extensive features or a large number of pages will naturally cost more. Expect agency fees to start at $40,000 and potentially reach six figures.

IMPORTANT NOTE: These are average cost ranges. The final price will depend on factors like the designer’s experience, project scope, and specific features required. Be sure to get quotes from multiple providers before making a decision.

What Your Website Redesign Might Cover (and Why It Matters for Planning)

A person writes on a whiteboard with a marker, surrounded by colorful sticky notes detailing the 2024 website redesign.
The cost of your website redesign hinges on what your website needs. Here’s a breakdown of some common elements that can influence the price tag, helping you understand what you’re paying for during the planning stages:

Design

The cost of your website redesign hinges on what your website needs. Here’s a breakdown of some common elements that can influence the price tag, helping you understand what you’re paying for during the planning stages:

Content

This refers to the written text, images, and videos on your website. Redesigning might involve refreshing existing content, creating new content, or migrating content from your old website.

Functionality

This refers to the features and actions users can take on your website. Examples include contact forms, booking systems, e-commerce functionalities (shopping carts, payment gateways), membership areas, and chatbots. Complex functionalities typically require more development time and raise the cost.

Content Management System (CMS)

This is the platform that allows you to edit and update your website content. Popular options include WordPress, Wix, and Squarespace. The choice of CMS can impact the cost depending on the level of customisation or development needed.

Responsiveness

Ensuring your website looks great and functions smoothly on all devices (desktops, tablets, mobiles) is crucial. A responsive design is essential in today’s mobile-first world.

Search Engine Optimisation (SEO)

This involves optimising your website content and technical aspects to improve its ranking in search engine results. Good SEO can help attract organic traffic to your website.

Security

Implementing security measures to protect your website and user data is vital. This may involve obtaining an SSL certificate and following best practices for website security.

Ongoing Maintenance

Websites require ongoing maintenance to fix bugs, update plugins, and ensure smooth operation. Factor in potential ongoing costs for maintenance or consider including them in your initial project scope with a freelancer or agency.
By understanding these elements and their impact on cost, you can plan your website redesign effectively and make informed decisions about where to invest your budget.

Getting the Most Out of Your Budget

A website redesign is an investment. The key is to figure out your goals for the redesign and set a budget that works for you. Whether you choose a DIY approach, partner with a freelancer, or collaborate with a web design agency, carefully consider your website’s needs and plan your budget accordingly. By understanding the different features that impact the cost, you can make informed decisions and get the most value out of your website investment.

A well-designed website attracts customers, showcases your brand effectively, and ultimately helps you achieve your business goals. If you’re looking for an experienced and reliable web design agency in Sydney, look no further than Spark. Our team of experts can help you create a website that is not only visually stunning but also drives results.

Contact Spark today for a free consultation and let’s discuss how we can help you take your Australian business to the next level online.

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