In Australian metro areas most emergency locksmiths arrive within 20 to 60 minutes of your call, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. After-hours callouts typically attract a higher rate, but a licensed locksmith can gain entry to your home, car, or business and resolve most lock emergencies on the first visit.
Overview
Being locked out of your home, car, or workplace can happen at any time — a snapped key, a jammed lock, a door that slams shut behind you, or a lock that fails after a break-in attempt. In Australia, locksmiths must hold the appropriate security licence in their state or territory, and attempting to force entry yourself can cause costly damage to doors, frames, and locks. Our network of emergency locksmiths covers every capital city and major regional centre, offering rapid response around the clock to get you back inside safely and securely.
When you need this service
- ✓Locked out of your home, unit, or apartment with no spare key
- ✓Car lockout — keys locked inside, broken key in ignition, or lost car key
- ✓Locked out of your office or commercial premises after hours
- ✓Broken key snapped off inside a lock cylinder
- ✓Lock jammed or seized and you cannot open or secure your door
- ✓Need urgent lock change after a break-in, burglary attempt, or lost keys
How it works
- 1
Call & Assessment
Contact an emergency locksmith who will ask about your situation — the type of lock, the property, and your location — and provide an estimated arrival time and callout fee.
- 2
Rapid Arrival
A licensed locksmith arrives — typically within 20 to 60 minutes in metro areas — with a fully equipped mobile workshop to handle most lockouts and lock emergencies on the spot.
- 3
Non-Destructive Entry & Resolution
The locksmith uses professional techniques to gain entry with minimal or no damage to the lock or door. They then resolve the underlying issue — extracting a broken key, repairing or replacing the lock, or cutting a new key.
- 4
Security Check & Advice
Before leaving, the locksmith ensures your property is secure and advises on any follow-up work such as rekeying, lock upgrades, or spare key cutting.
How much does it cost?
Emergency locksmith callout fees in Australia typically range from $80 to $250 depending on the time of day, location, and type of lockout. After-hours callouts (nights, weekends, and public holidays) usually attract a premium of $50 to $100 above standard daytime rates. Most emergency locksmiths charge a fixed callout fee that covers the first 30 minutes of labour, with additional work such as lock replacements or key cutting charged separately. Prices in Sydney and Melbourne tend to sit at the higher end, while regional areas may be lower but can attract a travel surcharge. Always confirm the total cost before the locksmith begins work.
Australian regulations
In Australia, locksmiths are regulated under state and territory security industry legislation. In New South Wales, locksmiths must hold a Security Licence (Class 2F) under the Security Industry Act 1997, administered by NSW Police. In Victoria, a Private Security Licence is required under the Private Security Act 2004. In Queensland, locksmiths are licensed under the Security Providers Act 1993 through the Office of Fair Trading. Other states and territories have similar requirements. Look for locksmiths who are members of the Master Locksmiths Association of Australasia (MLAA), which requires adherence to a code of ethics and ongoing professional development.