Who pays for a dividing fence in Victoria?

Short answer: under the Fences Act 1968 (Vic), adjoining owners generally share the cost of a sufficient dividing fence equally. If one neighbour wants something more expensive (taller, premium material), they usually pay the difference.

Steps

1. Talk first. Agree on the fence, quotes and split; put it in writing.
2. Get quotes (use our calculator to sanity-check).
3. Serve a Fencing Notice if you can't agree. It must be in writing and, to seek a contribution, include a cost estimate and its basis, the proposed split and the neighbour's estimated share (s13). Registered post gives proof of delivery.
4. Wait 30 days. If unresolved, either owner can use the free Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria, or file a complaint in the Magistrates' Court (Form 5A).

Good to know

• "Sufficient" depends on the properties' use, existing fence and privacy needs; the law sets no fixed height or material.
• Urgent repairs have a separate urgent fencing notice.
• Renters usually don't pay, except some long-term (non-residential) leases.
• A notice doesn't carry over to a new owner if the land is sold.

General information only, not legal advice. Check the official sources:

• vic.gov.au – Fencing in Victoria
• Victoria Legal Aid – Fences and trees
• Justice Vic – Fencing law in Victoria
• Fences Act 1968 (Vic) s13 – Fencing notice (AustLII)