Best Paint Brands in Australia: A 2026 Buyer Guide
Dulux, Haymes, Taubmans, Wattyl, and Resene compared — strengths, typical uses, and how to pick a brand for coastal Newcastle homes.
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.
Is Haymes paint better than Dulux?
Haymes is not automatically better than Dulux, and Dulux is not automatically better than Haymes. Dulux has wider retail availability and a very broad colour range. Haymes is Australian-owned and is often liked for rich colour and premium interior finishes. For most homes, the better choice is the right product line, primer, and prep for the surface.
What is the best exterior paint in Australia?
The best exterior paint in Australia is a premium acrylic exterior system matched to the surface and climate. For Newcastle homes, that means strong UV resistance, salt-air durability, and the correct primer underneath. A sound mid-range system over clean, primed walls will outlast a top-shelf tin applied over poor prep.
The major Australian paint brands compared
| Brand | Known for | Often chosen for |
|---|---|---|
| Dulux | Range, availability, trusted name | All-round interior and exterior work |
| Haymes | Rich colour, Australian-owned | Feature walls and premium interiors |
| Taubmans | Value and durability | Family homes and high-traffic areas |
| Wattyl | Exterior and protective lines | Weather-exposed exteriors and timber |
| Resene | Huge colour library | Specific or hard-to-match colours |

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. When it is time to book the work, our exterior painting in Newcastle service pairs the right coastal system with full prep.
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.
Manufacturer resources
- Dulux ↗ — interior and exterior ranges, colour tools, and product data sheets
- Haymes Paint ↗ — Australian-owned; premium interior and exterior ranges
- Taubmans ↗ — value and durability ranges for family homes
- Wattyl ↗ — exterior and protective coatings for weather-exposed surfaces and timber
- Resene ↗ — large colour library for specific or hard-to-match colours
Not sure which paint to use?
We choose the right brand and product line for each surface in your Newcastle home, then explain the choice in your quote. Book a free on-site assessment to get started.
Paint Brands FAQs
Common questions about choosing a paint brand in Australia.
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FinishesExterior Paint Types Guide for Coastal Homes
Acrylic, membrane and textured coatings, and primers that last in coastal salt air.
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ColourHow to Choose Paint Colours for Your Newcastle Home
How to choose paint colours in Newcastle: undertones, coastal light, neutrals, popular shades, and sampling tips.
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