Find the Best Formwork Hire Near You

Formwork refers to the moulds installed on a worksite in which concrete is poured into to build a sturdy structure. The formwork remains in place until the concrete is finally set and capable of supporting itself. When formworks are not strong enough to support the poured concrete, "blowouts" may happen. In some cases, the formwork will either bend or break, allowing the poured concrete to escape before it has set and hardened. Although formwork is usually used temporarily, formworks may be permanent if needed for extra support. Temporary formworks are given a specified time to be left alone until the concrete sets. This usually happens for at least 24 hours.

Explore the different types of formwork below:

• Traditional Timber Formwork - A type of formwork generally made from timber or plywood. It is usually built on-site and easily produced. However, it has a short lifespan and making it will take more time for larger structures. This is recommended for projects with low labour costs or flexible formwork in complicated sections.
• Engineered Formwork System - The frames of this formwork are usually made from steel or aluminium while the formwork itself is built from prefabricated modules. It’s more economical because it can be reused and it is also produced more quickly than timber formworks.
• Reusable Plastic Formwork - This formwork uses lightweight and robust plastic to create an interlocking and modular formwork system. Although it has many construction industry applications, it is usually recommended for small but repetitive projects. They also do not require any formwork removing agents and can simply be cleaned with water.
• Permanent Insulated Formwork - This is an advanced formwork system that is permanently insulated. This provides additional thermal, acoustic, rodent-resistant and fire-resistant properties. It is a common type of insulating concrete form or ICF that is energy efficient, environmentally friendly and sustainable.
• Stay-In-Place Formwork - This is a formwork that uses prefabricated fibre-reinforced plastic forms. It is usually assembled on-site and is shaped in hollow tubes. It is used to construct columns and piers. Also, as the name implies, it stays in place once the concrete has set. Furthermore, it acts as axial and shear reinforcement, preventing environmental damage like corrosion and freeze-thaw cycles.
• Flexible Formwork - This formwork uses lightweight but strong fabric sheets designed to complement concrete fluidity created for highly optimised and architecturally interesting building forms. Unlike the rigid forms of the above formworks, this one uses less concrete, resulting in considerable energy savings.

Here are the requirements to ensure a high-quality formwork:

• Strength - This is both a structural design and safety requirement, making it adequate in resistance anticipated forces.
• Stiffness - This ensures that the structural movement of the formwork when under load is small and predictable.
• Impact Resistance - For unfortunate cases of damaged forms, it must not generate into falling debris although unserviceable.
• Durability - Formworks are continually being reused and are stored usually out in the weather. Therefore, they must be durable enough and must have slow deterioration rates under extreme weather conditions.
• Weight - Ideally, formworks must be within the lifting ability of a form worker for both efficiency and economy.
• Accuracy - Assembling the formwork must be with only a minimum of fitting and cutting materials for economy.
• Compatibility - Basically, your chosen type of formwork materials must be compatible with either the fluid or hardened concrete.
• Insulation - Formworks must have good insulation since they will be set in areas where extreme heat or cold may present problems.

Check out the average hourly formwork hire rates below. Keep in mind that these formwork hire rates are just average costs and subject to change depending on the work, materials, and project location.

• $20.00 for a labourer
• $24.00 for a construction labourer
• $33.75 for a concrete foreman
• $35.00 for a concrete contractor

iseekplant offers quality formwork hire in all capital cities in Australia from Brisbane to Sydney, Canberra and Melbourne to Darwin, Perth and Adelaide. We also offer formwork hire contractors in all major towns and cities from Cairns down to Townsville, Mackay, Gold Coast, Central Coast and Hobart.

For all your concrete formwork hire needs, you can use iseekplant's get a quote tool to look for formwork suppliers in your area. Search our marketplace for what you need or give us a call on 1300 691 912. You can also reach us via email at projects@iseekplant.com.au.

A wide range of formwork systems are available for hire to suit residential, commercial, and civil construction projects. The best option depends on the concrete element being formed, load requirements, and ease of installation.

Common Types of Formwork for Hire

• Timber formwork: Flexible and cost-effective for slabs, footings, and custom shapes
• Steel formwork: Strong and durable; ideal for repetitive or heavy-duty applications
• Aluminium formwork: Lightweight, fast to assemble, and suited to high-cycle use
• Modular panel systems: Pre-engineered panels for walls, columns, and slabs
• Plastic formwork: Lightweight and reusable; suitable for small to medium pours
• Column formwork: Circular or square systems for vertical elements
• Slab & edge formwork: Designed for ground and suspended slabs
• Props & shoring systems: Including acrow props and falsework for temporary support

Hiring formwork allows flexibility, reduced upfront costs, and access to specialist systems without long-term storage or maintenance.

Formwork can be hired for short-term or long-term projects, depending on the supplier and project requirements. Daily, weekly, and monthly hire options are commonly available, with longer hire periods often offering lower rates per day or week.

Key Considerations for Formwork Hire Duration

• Project schedule: Ensure the hire period covers concrete placement, curing, and safe removal
• Supplier terms: Some suppliers set maximum hire periods or provide long-term rates for extended projects
• Material type: Durable systems like steel, aluminium, or modular formwork can remain on-site longer, while timber may require replacement or maintenance for extended use
• Return logistics: Plan for collection or possible extension if the project is delayed

Hiring for the appropriate duration ensures continuity, cost-efficiency, and safe completion of the concrete works.

Yes, some experience or guidance is recommended when using hired formwork, even for small projects. Formwork must be installed correctly to ensure the concrete sets safely and the structure is stable, so improper use can lead to accidents, misaligned pours, or structural defects.

Considerations for Using Hired Formwork

• Skill level: Basic DIY tasks may be manageable with simple modular or lightweight systems, but larger slabs, walls, or columns usually require trained personnel
• Supplier guidance: Many hire companies provide instructions, diagrams, or on-site demonstrations for safe assembly
• Safety precautions: Proper bracing, alignment, and load support are critical, as well as compliance with any site regulations
• Professional assistance: For complex or structural elements, hiring a qualified carpenter, formworker, or engineer is strongly recommended

Even when hiring formwork, following manufacturer instructions and safety guidelines is essential for a successful and safe concrete pour.

Formwork hire generally includes the supply of temporary moulds and supporting equipment needed to shape concrete safely. The exact inclusions vary by supplier, project type, and hire period, so it’s important to confirm what’s provided.

Typical Inclusions in Formwork Hire

• Formwork panels: Timber, steel, aluminium, plastic, or modular systems
• Props and supports: Acrow props, braces, and shoring components
• Accessories: Base plates, clamps, ties, and fasteners needed for assembly
• Delivery & collection: Transport to and from the site (sometimes included or charged separately)
• Basic assembly guidance: Instructions or diagrams for safe setup

Items often not included are labour, engineering design, on-site supervision, and specialist installation for complex structures. Checking inclusions ensures accurate planning and avoids unexpected costs.