Garaport Sheds: Steel Construction, Built and Permitted in Victoria
A garaport combines an enclosed garage and an open carport bay under a single continuous roofline. One side locks up securely. The other provides covered access without full enclosure. It is a practical, cost-effective alternative to building two separate structures.
If you are comparing options and want to understand what Trusteel builds and how the process works, request a quote.
What Is a Garaport?
A garaport is a single integrated shed structure, not two buildings placed side by side. The enclosed section suits vehicles, tools, or equipment that need to be locked away. The open bay suits a caravan, boat, trailer, or covered work area. Both sections share one slab and one roof.
When a Garaport Makes Sense
A garaport suits a property owner who needs both secure storage and open covered space. It costs less than two separate structures and uses less site area.
If you only need enclosed storage, a standard garage gives you more locked space per dollar. If you only need covered parking, a carport is simpler and cheaper. A garaport is the right choice when you genuinely need both functions.
Garaport Sizes and Configurations
Common configurations range from a single enclosed bay plus one open bay, through to double-width layouts that suit two vehicles and a trailer. Width, length, and the split between enclosed and open sections are all configurable.
Indicative pricing for a standard steel garaport starts from around $25,000, depending on size, cladding, roof pitch, and council zone. Final pricing requires a site-specific quote.
Roof Pitch and Cladding Options
Roof pitch affects drainage, head clearance, and your structure’s wind rating. A steeper pitch sheds water faster and can improve internal height under the open bay. It also influences what your council will approve under local planning overlays.
Trusteel uses Colorbond steel cladding as standard. A full range of colours is available.
RHS Steel Frames, How Trusteel Builds
Trusteel Fabrications fabricates garaport frames using Rectangular Hollow Section (RHS) structural steel. Most volume shed suppliers use C-section framing, which is lighter and cheaper but carries less load and resists racking less effectively.
For a garaport specifically, the open bay generates different lateral wind loads than a fully enclosed structure. The frame needs to handle both. RHS costs more upfront. Over the life of the structure, that difference is recovered in durability and structural performance.
Permits and Council Approval in Victoria
A garaport is classified as a Class 10a non-habitable structure under the National Construction Code. Under Victoria’s Building Regulations 2018, a building permit is generally required for any Class 10a structure above a footprint threshold or within certain boundary setback distances.
As a registered Victorian Building Authority (VBA) builder, Trusteel manages the permit process from application to approval. You do not need to engage a separate registered builder or deal with council directly. Requirements vary by council and zone, so Trusteel assesses your specific site as part of the quotation process.
How the Process Works
Trusteel manages every stage in-house. Site evaluation confirms your site conditions and any permit obligations. Quotation covers size, configuration, cladding, and footing requirements. Custom design produces drawings specific to your property. Manufacture and fabrication happens at Trusteel’s Mulgrave facility. Installation includes concreting and construction. You do not manage subcontractors at any stage.
To work through bay widths and configuration options before speaking to the team, use our free Shed Designer as a starting point, or talk to Trusteel about your garaport for a scope-based estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a building permit for a garaport in Victoria?
A building permit is generally required for a garaport under Victoria’s Building Regulations 2018. This applies to most Class 10a structures above the relevant footprint threshold or within setback distances from your boundaries. Requirements vary by council zone, so Trusteel assesses your site as part of the quote process.
What is the difference between a garaport and a carport?
A garaport includes an enclosed, lockable garage section alongside an open covered bay. A carport is open-sided throughout and provides no secure storage. If you need both locked storage and open covered space, a garaport delivers both from a single structure.
How much does a garaport cost?
A standard steel garaport typically starts from around $25,000, depending on size, roof pitch, cladding, and your council zone. Footing requirements and site conditions also influence the final price. A site-specific quote is needed for an accurate figure.
What sizes can a garaport be built to?
Garaports can be configured as a single enclosed bay plus one open bay, or as wider double-bay layouts. The split between enclosed and open sections is adjustable to suit your vehicles, equipment, or storage needs. Trusteel designs to your specific requirements.
Does Trusteel manage the slab and concreting, or do I need to organise that separately?
Trusteel manages concreting as part of the installation process. You do not need to engage a separate concreter. The full scope, from site evaluation through to slab and installation, is handled by Trusteel’s own teams.