How Much Does a Grease Trap Cost in Australia (2026)?
Quick Answer
Grease trap installation: Under-sink (passive): $500–$1,500. In-ground (1,000L): $3,000–$8,000. In-ground (2,000L+): $6,000–$12,000+. Regular pump-out service: $200–$500 per visit.
Grease Trap Costs by Type
| Type | Cost Installed | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Under-sink (passive, 20–50L) | $500–$1,500 | Small cafes, food trucks |
| In-ground (1,000L) | $3,000–$6,000 | Standard restaurants |
| In-ground (2,000L) | $5,000–$8,000 | Large restaurants, hotels |
| In-ground (5,000L+) | $8,000–$15,000+ | Shopping centres, hospitals |
Who Needs a Grease Trap?
- All commercial food premises — restaurants, cafes, takeaways, bakeries, butchers
- Any business discharging trade waste with fats, oils, and grease (FOG)
- Childcare centres and schools with commercial kitchens
- NOT residential properties — unless running a home-based food business
Sizing Requirements
Grease trap size is determined by the number of fixture units draining into it and the type of food preparation. Your local water authority (e.g., Urban Utilities, Gold Coast Water) specifies minimum sizes. Undersizing results in non-compliance and potential fines.
Recurring Revenue: Maintenance Contracts
Commercial grease traps need regular pump-outs (monthly to quarterly). Offering a maintenance contract ($200–$500/visit, 4–12 times/year) creates $2,400–$6,000/year per client in recurring revenue.
Compliance
Grease trap installation is notifiable work and requires council/water authority approval before installation. Trade waste agreements must be in place. Lodge a Form 7 after installation.
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