Gabion walls — wire mesh cages filled with stone — offer a distinctive contemporary look while delivering superior drainage performance. In Melbourne’s climate, where heavy winter rainfall can cause hydrostatic pressure build-up behind conventional walls, gabion walls naturally allow water to pass through, reducing the risk of structural failure.
Why Gabion Walls Work in Melbourne
Melbourne receives an average of 648mm of rain annually, with the wettest months (October–November) bringing sudden downpours. Gabion walls handle this brilliantly — water passes freely through the stone fill rather than building up behind the wall. This makes them particularly suitable for properties in hilly areas like Eltham and Ringwood.
Cost Range
Gabion retaining walls cost $200–$450 per square metre in Melbourne, depending on the stone fill type (bluestone, granite, river rock) and wall height. They require less drainage infrastructure than solid walls, which can offset some of the material cost.
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