TV Mounting in Canberra

Small TVs (under about 40 inches) can go on hollow drywall with heavy-duty toggle anchors rated for the load, but most professionals prefer to hit at least one stud or install a plywood backing board. For TVs over 50 inches, mounting into studs or masonry is strongly recommended — anchor-only installs on hollow walls are the most common cause of fallen TVs.

Under 43 inches is a reasonable DIY job if you can find studs and use a level. From 55 inches up, a second pair of hands is essential and mistakes get expensive — a 65-inch panel weighs 20-25 kg and modern bezel-less screens crack easily if gripped wrong. Professionals also carry stud finders, cable detectors, and masonry drills most households lack.

Not for the mounting itself. You need one only if you want a new power outlet behind the TV, since fixed wiring is electrician-only work in most countries. Many TV mounting companies partner with an electrician or offer the outlet as an add-on — ask when booking so it happens in one visit.

Either works. Buying your own mount is usually cheaper — check it matches your TV's VESA pattern (the four bolt holes on the back, e.g. 400x400) and its rated weight. Many installers also sell mounts on the day at a markup of roughly 20-50% over retail. If you buy your own, tell the installer the model so they bring the right fixings.

No. Unlike the US or UK, Australia prohibits all DIY fixed wiring — a new power point must be installed by a licensed electrician, who will supply a certificate of compliance. Most TV installers either partner with a sparky or route an existing outlet's leads through in-wall rated cable management instead.

Usually yes, by roughly 20-50%. Much of Australia's older housing stock (especially WA and older east-coast suburbs) is double brick, which needs a hammer drill and masonry anchors, and in-wall cable concealment is generally not possible — installers use paintable surface duct instead.