Lock Rekeying vs Lock Replacement in Melbourne: Costs, Differences and Which to Choose ?

You've just moved into a new place. Or someone's moved out of yours. Or you've lost your keys, for the third time this year. Whatever the reason, you've decided it's time to change the locks, and now a locksmith asks the question that decides your bill: "Do you want to rekey or replace?"

The two sound similar, but they're different jobs with very different prices. This guide explains exactly what each one does, what they typically cost in Melbourne in 2026 and how to choose, including what renters in Victoria should check before touching a lock.

Prices are indicative and come from Melbourne locksmith websites and price guides, which differ and can be promotional. Always get a written all-in quote from a licensed locksmith before work begins.

What's the difference?

Rekeying changes the inside of the lock so old keys no longer work. The locksmith swaps the internal pins in the cylinder and gives you new keys that fit the same lock. The lock itself stays on your door.

Replacing removes the old lock and fits new hardware. You get a brand-new lock, new keys and, if you choose, a higher level of security or a different style.

A simple way to think about it: rekeying changes the "code," and replacing changes the whole lock.

What does it cost in Melbourne?

Published 2026 figures vary a lot, so I've listed the ranges and where they overlap.

Some sources are much cheaper. A few local rekey pages quote $35 to $60 per lock, and one national forum comment mentions a call-out around $100 and then $25 to $40 per rekey. Others quote $85 to $230. The difference usually comes down to whether the call-out fee is included, how many locks you do at once, and the type of lock.

The real number to ask for: the total price for your job, including the call-out and every lock. A "$35 rekey" quote can become $200 once the call-out fee is added.

Heritage mortise locks in older inner-city homes often cost more to rekey, sometimes toward $150 to $200 per lock.

When rekeying is the better choice

Rekeying usually wins when:

• You've moved into a new home or rental, and you want to be sure previous tenants or owners no longer have working keys

• You've lost a key, and you'd like to invalidate it

• A housemate or former partner has moved out, and you want to cancel their keys

• Your locks are in good condition, and you just want new keys

• You want to put several locks on one key so you carry fewer keys

• You're on a budget. Guides say rekeying is typically around half the cost of replacement, or about 30% to 50% less

When replacement is the better choice

Replace the lock when:

• It's damaged, worn, sticking or failing. Rekeying a faulty lock won't fix it.

• It's old or low quality and doesn't meet current security standards

• There's been a break-in, and the lock or door was damaged

• You want to upgrade, for example to a deadbolt, a high-security cylinder or a smart lock

• The lock can't be rekeyed. Some very cheap or very old locks aren't designed for it.

• You want a different look or function, such as a keypad or a restricted key system

Also consider replacing if the door itself is weak. A great lock on a flimsy door doesn't add much security.

What about security?

Both options stop the old keys from working. The difference is the quality of the lock. Rekeying leaves your existing lock in place, so it's only as secure as the original. If the lock is cheap or worn, an upgrade may be worth the extra cost. A locksmith can tell you whether your hardware is worth keeping.

Renters in Victoria: check before you change anything

If you rent, don't change locks on your own initiative. A few points to know, based on Victorian renting guidance and locksmith summaries:

• Get written consent from your rental provider (landlord) before rekeying, replacing or adding locks. Making changes to the property without permission can lead to a bond claim, and Consumer Affairs Victoria lists unauthorized changes and missing items such as locks among the reasons a rental provider can claim on a bond.

• Keep the original lock if you're replacing it, in case you need to put it back before you move out.

• Ask your rental provider or agent first. Victorian rental minimum standards cover locks on external doors, and a provider may be responsible for locks, or may be willing to rekey at the start of a tenancy. Check the current minimum standards on Consumer Affairs Victoria's website.

• Safety situations are different. Special rules apply if you're escaping family violence, including provisions that can allow lock changes in urgent situations. If this applies to you, contact Consumer Affairs Victoria, Tenants Victoria or a family violence support service for advice. In an emergency, call 000.

• Keep records. Save your written permission, receipts and photos, and remember to note the locks on your condition report.

Our guides to tenant rights in Victoria, condition reports and getting your bond back explain why records matter, and our guide to Melbourne rental scams is a reminder to check any "locksmith" or "agent" before you let them in.

Tips for choosing a locksmith

• Use a licensed, local locksmith with a real address, and ask for ID when they arrive.

• Ask for the total price in writing, including call-out, labor and parts.

• Ask how many locks they'll do and whether the price drops for multiple locks.

• Ask about warranty on hardware and labor.

• Be wary of very low quotes that add fees on arrival.

• Check reviews, but beware that many local guides and reviews are marketing.

• Compare two or three quotes for a planned job. You don't need to rush if it's not an emergency.

DIY rekeying?

Rekey kits exist, and some guides mention kits costing around $30 to $50. Rekeying yourself can work for simple locks if you're careful, but mistakes can leave you with a lock that doesn't work or isn't secure. If you rent, you still need permission. For most people, a professional is the safer choice, especially for deadbolts and high-security locks.

Quick answers

Is rekeying cheaper than replacing?

Usually, yes. Many guides put rekeying at about half the cost of replacement, or 30% to 50% less.

How much does it cost to rekey a lock in Melbourne?

Commonly about $70 to $130 per lock plus a call-out fee, though some quotes are lower and some higher.

How much does it cost to replace a lock?

Often $70 to $200 for a standard lock, up to $370 or more for high-security or digital locks.

Should I rekey a new rental?

Many people do, but get your rental provider's written consent first.

Does rekeying make my home more secure?

It stops old keys from working. It doesn't improve the lock's quality, so consider upgrading if your lock is cheap or worn.

Can I change locks in a rental?

Not without your rental provider's permission, except in specific situations such as family violence. Check with Consumer Affairs Victoria.