Best Paint Brands in Australia: A 2026 Buyer Guide

The best paint brands in Australia are Dulux, Haymes, Taubmans, Wattyl, and Resene. Each makes excellent paint, so there is no single winner. Dulux leads on range and availability. Haymes is loved for rich colour. Taubmans and Wattyl offer strong value, and Resene has a deep colour library. So the right brand depends on the product line, the surface, and your budget. This guide compares them and shows how to choose, building on our paint types and finishes guide.

The major Australian paint brands compared

How do I choose a paint brand?

Choose by product line, not just the badge. Every major brand sells budget, mid, and premium ranges. So a premium Taubmans can outperform a budget Dulux. Match the range to how hard the surface works. Spend more on busy walls, trims, and exteriors.

For coastal Newcastle homes, the exterior range matters most. Look for salt and UV resistance and the right primer. The brand is secondary to the product and the prep. See our exterior paint types guide for what to look for.

Why prep beats the brand

Whichever brand you pick, prep decides the result. The best paint over a dirty or glossy surface still peels. So clean, repair, sand, and prime first, then apply a quality product. Our wall preparation guide covers the steps that make any brand last.