All advice / Design and finishes
Why the toilet matters in a renovation
The toilet is the most-used fixture in the bathroom. Yet it is often the last thing people think about during a renovation. Choosing the right type affects the look of the room, how easy it is to clean, and how much water the household uses.
A new toilet suite costs $400 to $2,500 depending on the type and brand. The fitting cost is $200 to $600. Given that the toilet will be used ten to fifteen thousand times a year, it is worth getting right.
Back to wall toilets
A back to wall toilet sits flush against the wall. The cistern is hidden — either in the wall cavity or inside a furniture unit. The result is a clean, modern look with no exposed pipes or tanks.
These are the most popular choice in Australian bathroom renovations in 2026. They are easy to clean because there are no gaps behind the pan where dust and grime collect. They suit most bathroom sizes and styles.
Wall-hung toilets
A wall-hung toilet is mounted on the wall, with the pan off the floor. The cistern is concealed inside the wall. This creates a floating look and makes it very easy to clean the floor beneath.
Wall-hung toilets need a strong mounting frame inside the wall cavity, which adds to the fitting cost. They work well in modern, minimal bathrooms and save a small amount of floor space. The pan height can be set to suit the user — a benefit for taller people or those with mobility needs.
Our wall-hung vs floor-mounted guide compares these options across all bathroom fixtures.
Close coupled toilets
A close coupled toilet has the cistern bolted directly on top of the pan. It is the most common type in existing Australian homes and the cheapest to buy and fit. The cistern is visible but sits right against the bowl.
These are a good budget choice when the plumbing stays in the same place. They are simple to install, easy to repair and widely available. The trade-off is a bulkier look compared to a back to wall or wall-hung model.
Water ratings and WELS
Every toilet sold in Australia carries a WELS (Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards) star rating. A 4-star dual-flush toilet uses about 4.5 litres on a full flush and 3 litres on a half flush.
Replacing an old single-flush toilet with a 4-star dual-flush model can save 30,000 to 50,000 litres of water per year in a four-person household. Our eco-friendly renovation guide covers WELS ratings for all fixtures.
Cost range and what ETR recommends
Budget (close coupled): $400 to $700 supply plus $200 to $400 fitting. Mid-range (back to wall): $600 to $1,200 supply plus $300 to $500 fitting. Premium (wall-hung): $1,000 to $2,500 supply plus $500 to $800 fitting (including the concealed frame).
Ken Chen said that "Omar, Adam and the team did an excellent job renovating our main bathroom, ensuite and standalone toilet." The right toilet type is chosen during the design phase, based on the layout, budget and style of the room.
A free on-site measure anywhere in Sydney is the starting point. Call 0411 752 334.
Frequently asked questions
Which toilet type is easiest to clean?
Wall-hung, because the pan is off the floor and you can mop underneath. Back to wall is a close second — no gaps behind the pan. Close coupled is the hardest because of the join between the cistern and the bowl.
How much does a new toilet cost in a bathroom renovation?
Supply plus fitting: $600 to $1,100 for a close coupled, $900 to $1,700 for a back to wall, and $1,500 to $3,300 for a wall-hung with concealed frame. These are typical ranges for mid-quality Australian brands.
Can I change from a close coupled toilet to a wall-hung?
Yes, but it requires changes to the plumbing and wall framing. A concealed cistern frame must be installed inside the wall cavity. This is easiest during a full renovation when the walls are already open.
What WELS rating should I look for in a toilet?
A 4-star dual-flush model is the current standard. It uses about 4.5 litres on a full flush and 3 litres on a half flush. Some 5-star models use even less water.
Do wall-hung toilets hold the weight of a heavy person?
Yes. A properly installed wall-hung toilet with a certified mounting frame holds 400 kilograms or more. The frame is bolted into the wall studs and floor, not just the plasterboard.