Heating and cooling can use around half a home’s energy, and most Australian capitals need sun protection for much of the year (only Hobart and Melbourne average below UV 3 in winter). Adjustable louvres cut heat and glare while keeping rooms bright.
Rather than just privacy at night, home-owners are usually more concerned about everyday challenges — like harsh afternoon sun, glare on screens, steam from kitchens and bathrooms, coastal air that causes rust, and time-consuming cleaning. They want shutters that look neat, are easy to clean, child-safe, and built to last.
In this guide, you’ll see which shutter materials suit each room, the louvre sizes that work best, when to choose inside or outside mount, and what to ask at the measure and quote.
How to Choose the Right Plantation Shutter for Australian Homes
- Match material to room, PVC for wet zones and timber or hybrid for dry areas
- Pick lighter colours in hot west-facing rooms to reflect heat
- Choose larger louvres for views and airflow, smaller for tighter light control
- Use an inside mount for a clean look or an outside mount to hide out-of-square openings.
- Add a second layer for full night privacy in street-facing bedrooms
- Ask for child-safe operation with smooth, reliable tilt
- Check coastal-friendly hardware and moisture resistance where needed
- Compare measured quotes that include build, install, and warranty
Rapid Rundown of Plantation Shutter Designs for Australian Homes
Use this shortlist to match each design to room, use heat, and moisture before you book a measure and quote.
- Paulownia Timber Shutters (All Shutters and Blinds): Warm classic look for living rooms and bedrooms with custom colours and stains.
- PVC Shutters (All Shutters and Blinds): Moisture-friendly option for kitchens and bathrooms with a clean painted finish.
- Aluminium Interior Shutters (All Shutters and Blinds): Slim, strong panels that suit wide spans and busy family areas with low upkeep.
- Aluminium Exterior Shutters (All Shutters and Blinds): Outdoor privacy and airflow for patios and balconies with sturdy weather resistance.
- PolySatin Shutters (Luxaflex): Australian-made polymer built for wet areas with long warranties and easy care.
- PolyLux Plantation Shutters (DIY Blinds): DIY friendly custom sizes with fast turnarounds and support resources.
- PVC Plantation Shutters (iSeekBlinds): Custom PVC with clear instructions on how to guide free samples and nationwide delivery.
Comparison of plantation shutter designs for Australian homes
| Design name | Material | Indoor or outdoor | Best rooms and uses | Moisture friendly | Wide spans | Install type | Notable strengths |
| Paulownia Timber Shutters (All Shutters and Blinds) | Timber | Indoor | Living rooms and bedrooms | Low in wet zones | Moderate | Pro measure and install | Warm classic look and custom stains |
| PVC Shutters (All Shutters and Blinds) | PVC polymer | Indoor | Kitchens and bathrooms | Yes | Moderate | Pro measure and install | Stable in humidity |
| Aluminium Interior Shutters (All Shutters and Blinds) | Aluminium | Indoor | High traffic areas and wide windows | Yes | Strong for larger panels | Pro measure and install | Slim sturdy frames |
| Aluminium Exterior Shutters (All Shutters and Blinds) | Aluminium | Outdoor | Patios and balconies | Yes | Yes | Pro measure and install | Weather and privacy control |
| PolySatin Shutters (Luxaflex) | Polyresin PVC | Indoor | Wet areas and laundries | Yes | Moderate | Dealer measure and install | Made in Australia and moisture-proof |
| PolyLux Plantation Shutters (DIY Blinds) | PVC polymer | Indoor | Whole home and rentals | Yes | Moderate | DIY measure and install, or installer add-on | Australian-made and fast turnaround |
| PVC Plantation Shutters (iSeekBlinds) | PVC polymer | Indoor | Bathrooms, kitchens, and laundries | Yes | Moderate | DIY friendly with guides | Clear how-to guides and free samples |
1. Paulownia Timber Shutters (All Shutters and Blinds)
Warm natural timber lifts living rooms and bedrooms while keeping light easy to control. Panels are custom-sized and finished, so the look feels built-in and tidy. With proper sealing and care, they stay stable in typical dry indoor areas.
Timber works best where you want texture and a premium feel with accurate colour or stain matching. It is not the first pick for wet zones, which is why pros steer it toward living areas and bedrooms.
Key Features
- Custom stains and paints that match trims and floors.
- Lightweight panels for smooth everyday use.
- Good light control with tight louvre closure.
- Solid frames that sit neatly inside the reveal.
- Repairable finish for long-term upkeep.
- Made to measure for square and shaped windows.
Who is it for
- Homeowners who want a classic look in living areas and bedrooms.
- Renovators who need colour-matched finishes across trims.
- Buyers who prefer natural materials in dry rooms.
- People who value precise light control with a premium feel.
Pricing
- Installed in Australia, 350 to 450 AUD per m² is typical.
- Premium hardwood ranges from 465 to 655 AUD per m².
2. PVC Shutters (All Shutters and Blinds)
PVC shutters give a clean, contemporary look and keep rooms feeling bright and tidy. Panels are custom-made so the fit is neat and easy to live with.
They cope well with steam and water splashes in Aussie kitchens and bathrooms, and wipe clean with ease. Good suppliers use moisture-resistant polymers and UV-stable finishes for long service in the sun and humidity.
Key Features
- Moisture-resistant construction for wet areas.
- UV stable finish that resists peeling and fading.
- Multiple frame styles for recess or face-fit installs.
- Easy wipe care with low ongoing maintenance.
- Made to measure sizing for a custom fit.
Who is it for
- Busy households that want easy cleaning and contemporary look.
- Homes with bathrooms, kitchens and laundries
- Street-facing rooms that need privacy without heavy fabrics.
- Owners who want a painted style without the timber upkeep.
Pricing
- DIY from 216 to 335 AUD per m².
- Installed typical 300 to 450 AUD per m².
3. Aluminium Interior Shutters (All Shutters and Blinds)
Aluminium interior shutters bring a clean, modern look with slim frames and a smooth matte finish. They feel solid and operate smooth, for easy light control.
These shutters can span wider single panels, perfect for large windows and sliding doors, allowing for clearer views.
Key Features
- Wide single panel options up to about 1100 mm were offered.
- Matte powder coat finish to suit contemporary styles.
- Strong and rigid construction that feels secure in use.
- Low maintenance with easy wipe surfaces.
- Slim, flush mount frames that suit modern interiors.
Who is it for
- Homes with wide windows or doors that need fewer panels.
- Busy households that want sturdy low care finishes.
- Contemporary spaces that prefer clean lines and minimal joins.
Pricing
Installed in Australia 500 to 750 AUD per m².
4. Aluminium Exterior Shutters (All Shutters and Blinds)
Aluminium exterior shutters turn patios and balconies into usable rooms with shade, airflow, and privacy. Powder-coated frames and blades handle sun, rain, and coastal air for year-round use.
They screen wind and glare while keeping the space open and light. Marine-grade components and rigid construction make them a durable pick for outdoor living in Australia.
Key Features
- Powder-coated aluminium with stainless hardware for outdoor durability.
- Weather-ready design for sun, rain and coastal conditions.
- Adjustable blades for light, airflow and privacy control.
- Lock and latch options for added security.
- Custom colours and sizes to match facades and spans.
Who is it for
- Homes that want to use patios and balconies all year-round.
- Coastal and high-sun locations that need durable, low maintenance finishes.
- Families who want privacy and wind control without heavy fabrics.
Pricing
Installed in Australia 450 to 900 AUD per m² typical.
5. PolySatin Shutters (Luxaflex)
PolySatin shutters use a polyresin structure that keeps a crisp painted look and stays stable in heat and humidity. They are made in Australia and carry a long warranty for peace of mind.
The surface does not blister, peel or flake, and it cleans with a quick wipe. Panels can be sized for many window types for that custom-feel.
Key Features
- Twenty-year product warranty in Australia.
- Moisture-resistant polyresin for wet areas.
- Australian-made with dealer measure and install.
- Options for shaped windows and multiple installation styles.
- Low VOC certification.
- Easy to detach and clean.
Who is it for
- Homes that need a painted look in wet or steamy rooms.
- Families who want low care surfaces and child-safe operation.
- Buyers who prefer long local warranty cover and Australian-made.
Pricing
Installed typically 300 to 450 AUD per m² in Australia.
6. PolyLux Plantation Shutters (DIY Blinds)
PolyLux shutters give a crisp painted look with panels made to fit neatly. The structure and finish feels solid for everyday use.
They are custom-made in Australia with short lead times and long guarantee support. The material is VOC-free and designed for Aussie conditions.
Key Features
- Twenty-year warranty stated by the maker.
- Custom-made in Australia with fast manufacturing lead times.
- VOC-free material reported on the Australian Made listing.
- Direct-mount or framed options for different reveals.
- Smooth wipe clean surface for low maintenance living.
Who is it for
- Homeowners who want an Australian-made painted look with a strong warranty.
- Busy households that prefer low maintenance and simple cleaning.
- Buyers who want DIY measure or install options with support if needed.
Pricing
From 55 AUD shown on the product page and from 74 AUD on the listing page.
7. PVC Plantation Shutters (iSeekBlinds)
These PVC shutters arrive custom-sized to fit any window opening. The finish is smooth and painted, so rooms feel clean and bright.
They ship Australia-wide and are set up for simple DIY with guides and videos. You can order free samples to check the colour before you buy.
Key Features
- Moisture-ready PVC with aluminium core.
- Inside mount, outside mount or direct mount frame choices.
- Easy DIY with step-by-step install booklet and videos.
- Free sample pack for colour and finish checks.
- Australia-wide delivery from the Melbourne.
Who is it for
- DIY buyers who want custom sizes with simple installation help.
- Households that prefer a painted look without the timber upkeep.
- Shoppers who want to confirm colours with free samples before ordering.
Pricing
- DIY 216 AUD per m².
How to Measure Plantation Shutters for a Perfect Fit
- Use a steel tape for accuracy and measure in millimetres for every window.
- Take three width measurements at the top, middle and bottom of the reveal.
- Take three height measurements on the left centre and right sides.
- Record the smallest width and smallest height for a snug fit.
- Check diagonals to ensure the window is square before you order.
- Note which side has handles or locks so panels open freely.
- Decide if you want an inside mount for a flush look or outside mount to cover trims.
- Double-check all sizes before sending for a made-to-measure quote.
FAQs
Are plantation shutters good for heat control in Australia?
Yes, because they shade the glass and reduce the sun hitting the room directly. Pair them with light coloured finishes to reflect heat. You can also close blades during peak afternoon sun for extra comfort.
Do shutters help with energy efficiency?
They add a still air layer at the window which helps reduce heat gain in summer and heat loss in winter. You feel fewer drafts and less glare, so rooms stay more stable without running cooling or heating as hard.
Which material suits bathrooms and kitchens?
PVC and similar moisture-resistant shutters handle steam and water splashes well. They clean with a quick wipe and do not swell like timber. Use them in laundries and above sinks for easy care.
How do I choose a louvre size?
Small blades suit small windows and tighter light control. Large blades suit bigger openings and wider views. Think about privacy needs and how much outside view you want.
Inside mount or outside mount?
The inside mount gives a tidy built-in look when the recess is square and deep enough. The outside mount helps cover uneven opennings and can make a small window look larger.
How do I clean plantation shutters?
Dust weekly with a soft brush or vacuum, then wipe with a damp cloth. Avoid soaking timberl and do not use harsh cleaning solvents. Regular light cleaning keeps the finish looking its best.
Are shutters safer for kids than corded blinds?
Yes, there are no dangling cords, which reduces strangulation risk. Make sure panels close smoothly and fix any loose hardware. For extra safety, keep furniture away from window areas.
What do plantation shutters cost in Australia?
Expect entry-level options to start in the low hundreds per square metre with installed prices higher. Final cost depends on material, span, frame style and finish. Always compare written quotes that include measure, install, and warranty.
