Key cutting in Sydney typically costs about $14 for a standard key, within a range of $6–$34. Security, restricted and car keys cost more, and some can only be copied with authorisation from the key holder or the manufacturer.
This guide covers what key cutting costs, where to get keys cut, how Bunnings key cutting compares with a locksmith, and how to avoid poor copies. For safe storage of spares, see our key safes and lock boxes guide.
Key points
- A standard key typically costs about $14 to cut in Sydney (range $6–$34).
- Copy from your original key, not from a copy, since wear passes from one copy to the next.
- Restricted and car keys need authorisation or programming, and cost more than a standard key.
- In NSW, locksmiths work under a Class 2 security licence; ask for the licence number before work starts.
Key cutting cost in Sydney
These are Sydney prices as at October 2026, including GST. Where a job is quoted individually, the table says so.
| Job (Sydney, Oct 2026) | Price range | Typical |
|---|---|---|
| Key cutting, standard key | $6–$34 | $14 |
| Car key, cut and programmed | $170–$630 | $345 |
| Re-key, per lock | $52–$140 | $75 |
| Broken key extraction | $92–$345 | $150 |
| Restricted or security key | Quoted individually | (indicative — get itemised quotes) |
- Key type: a standard house key is the cheapest, while a restricted or high-security key costs more and may need authorisation.
- Quantity: asking for several copies in one visit usually costs less than separate trips.
- Condition of the original: a worn key may need extra time to cut a copy that works well.
- Time of day: after-hours, weekend and public-holiday call-outs carry a surcharge that varies by locksmith.
- Location: a mobile locksmith who comes to you costs more than a counter, but saves a trip and handles awkward keys.
- Programming: keys with chips or remotes need programming on top of cutting.
Bunnings key cutting vs a locksmith
Hardware-store counters are convenient for standard keys. A locksmith handles the jobs a counter cannot.
| Need | Hardware-store counter | Locksmith |
|---|---|---|
| Standard house or padlock key | Usually suitable; confirm price and wait time in store | Suitable, typically about $14 |
| Restricted or security key | Usually cannot copy without authorisation | Can process authorisation with proof of ownership |
| Car key with chip or remote | Often limited to the metal blade | Cuts and programs, typically about $345 |
| Key lost or no original | Cannot copy a key you do not have | Can make a key to suit the lock |
| Worn or damaged lock | Not offered | Can re-key or replace the lock |
- Check Bunnings key cutting prices in store: stores set their own prices and services, so ask what they can cut before you go.
- Bring the original: never ask for a copy of a copy, as errors compound.
- Test the copy straight away: try it in the lock before you leave the counter.
- Ask about warranty: some shops replace a poor copy, but confirm the policy first.
- Use a locksmith for anything unusual: unusual blanks, damaged keys and security keys suit specialist cutting.
- Keep the receipt: it helps if the copy fails or does not match.
How key cutting works
Key cutting copies the pattern of the original onto a blank of the same type.
- Match the blank: the cutter selects a blank with the same shape and grooves as your key.
- Trace the original: a machine follows the cuts on your key and reproduces them on the blank.
- Remove burrs: the copy is cleaned so it slides smoothly and does not damage the lock.
- Test in the lock: a good copy turns smoothly without forcing.
- Cut from the original: a copy of a copy can drift out of tolerance and stiffen the lock.
- Check each key: test every copy in the lock it is meant for.
Key cutting for restricted and security keys
Restricted keys are designed so that only authorised people can copy them. That control is the point.
- Look for markings: keys stamped “do not duplicate” are not automatically restricted, so ask a locksmith to check.
- Expect authorisation: the registered holder or authorised person must approve a copy, usually with ID.
- Plan ahead: copies can take longer than a standard key, so allow time.
- Strata and landlords: a shared building key may need approval from the body corporate or agent before copying.
- Learn how the system works: read our restricted key systems guide.
- Know the legal side: see our lock picking legality guide for why access control matters.
Car key cutting and programming
- Cost: a car key, cut and programmed, typically costs about $345 in Sydney, within a range of $170–$630.
- Chip and remote: cutting the blade alone will not start a vehicle that checks a chip, so ask who can program it.
- Proof of ownership: a legitimate locksmith asks for ID and proof you own or control the vehicle.
- Make a spare early: copying while you hold a working key is simpler than replacing a lost one.
- Compare options: see our car key replacement cost guide.
- Lockout cover: check roadside assistance before paying for a car lockout, which typically costs about $205.
When key cutting is not the answer: re-key or replace
- Lost keys: re-keying costs about $75 per lock ($52–$140) and makes missing keys useless, instead of copying them.
- Too many copies: if you cannot account for every key, re-key the lock.
- Worn lock: if keys are hard to turn, replacing a basic lock typically costs about $255 ($140–$400).
- Stuck key: do not force it; see our key stuck or broken in lock guide.
- Lock choices: our types of door locks guide compares the options.
- Keyless option: a smart or digital lock typically costs about $600 fitted; read our smart locks guide.
Common mistakes to avoid with key cutting
- Copying a copy: bring your original key to avoid stiff locks and poor fits.
- Handing keys to unknown cutters: a copy can end up anywhere, so use a trusted shop for house keys.
- Skipping the test: try the key before you leave, not once you are home.
- Cutting too many spares: every copy is a security risk, so keep a list of who holds each one.
- Forcing a worn key: a snapped key typically costs about $150 to extract, so replace worn keys early.
Key cutting FAQs
How much does key cutting cost in Sydney?
Cutting a standard key in Sydney typically costs about $14, within a range of $6–$34 (October 2026). Restricted, security and car keys cost more, and some need authorisation or programming. Ask for the total price before work starts.
Does Bunnings key cutting cover all key types?
Not always. Hardware-store counters suit standard keys, but restricted keys and car keys with chips or remotes often need a locksmith. Prices and services vary by store, so check with the store before you go.
Can a locksmith cut a key without the original?
Often yes. A licensed locksmith can make a key to suit your lock, though it takes longer than copying one you hold. Expect an ID or proof-of-residence check before work starts, and a surcharge after hours.
Why does my new key stick or not turn?
Common causes are a copy made from a worn original, burrs left on the cut, or a worn lock. Do not force it. Try the original key, then ask a locksmith to check the copy or re-key the lock.
Getting keys cut the right way in Sydney
Use a counter for simple keys and a locksmith for anything restricted, worn or programmed. TQN Locksmith’s licensed Sydney locksmiths cut, re-key and program keys with the price confirmed first. See our locksmith cost guide or get a fixed-price quote.
