Installing outdoor cameras in Australia is a smart move, but going in without a plan can cost you thousands—and still leave you less secure than you think.
A lot of people make mistakes. Around 60% of issues are due to poor planning, and 25% come from picking the wrong vendor. Here’s how to avoid those traps.
Step 1: Work Out What You Actually Need
Before buying anything, figure out your goals and budget. Most people only budget for the cameras, but with installation and ongoing costs, you’re looking at roughly A$3,000–A$8,000 over three years.
Calculate Your Total Cost
Entry-level (4 cameras): Around A$2,500–A$5,100 over 3 years
Professional (6–8 cameras): Around A$4,250–A$9,600 over 3 years
Watch out for “cheap” wireless cameras (~A$99). Many have monthly cloud fees that can add up to thousands over a few years. Always check the 3-year cost, not just the sticker price.
Figure Out Camera Placement
Don’t just guess. Most break-ins happen at front doors, back doors, garages, and windows.
Priority 1: Front door, back door, garage
Priority 2: Windows, side gates
Priority 3: Around the property—driveways, garden entrances
Most Aussie suburban homes need 6–12 cameras for full coverage—not just 2–4.
Step 2: Pick the Right Gear
Focus on how the whole system works, not just individual cameras. Compatibility issues cause heaps of headaches.
Brand Tiers
Tier 1 (Enterprise): Hikvision, Dahua, Axis. Professional features, strong support, also have smaller home-friendly models.
Tier 2 (Professional): HiLook, Uniview, or value ranges from Hikvision/Dahua. Great balance of quality and price.
Consumer: Eufy, Ring, Arlo. Easy DIY, but enterprise brands also have small, reliable models with better support and upgrade options.
Consider Australian Conditions
Weatherproof: Look for IP67
Temperature: Should handle -10°C to +55°C
Special needs: Coastal areas = corrosion resistance; dry regions = UV protection
Step 3: Installation & Handover
Installation is key. Professional install costs A$150–A$300 per camera, but can save you A$2,000–A$5,000 fixing DIY mistakes.
DIY vs Professional
DIY is fine for battery or plug-in cameras, as long as they don’t record audio or point at neighbours.
Professional installation needed for: hardwired systems, cameras with audio, or commercial properties.
DIY can void insurance or breach privacy laws.
What Pros Do
Physical Installation: Mount cameras at 2.5–3m, safe cable routing, surge-protected power.
System Setup: Configure IPs, optimise image settings, set up recording and remote access.
Testing & Handover: Check video quality, confirm remote access, hand over documentation and warranties, teach basic usage and maintenance.
Bottom Line
Buying cameras is just part of the picture. A well-planned, professionally installed system is real security.
Take the time to plan, choose the right vendor, and get it installed properly. You’ll save money, stay compliant, and sleep easy knowing your home is protected.