The Australia and New Zealand cleaning services market size reached a value of USD 13.52 billion in 2024. Over the forecast period from 2025 to 2034, the market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.30%, reaching approximately USD 17.4 billion by 2034. This growth is driven by increasing demand for professional cleaning services across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. Factors such as urbanisation, rising disposable income, growing awareness about hygiene, and the need for eco-friendly cleaning solutions are shaping the industry.
This article explores the key market drivers, challenges, trends, segmentation, and future opportunities in the Australia and New Zealand cleaning services market.
Market Drivers
1. Growing Urbanisation and Commercial Spaces
The rapid urbanisation in Australia and New Zealand has led to a surge in commercial spaces, including offices, retail outlets, and industrial facilities. These spaces require regular cleaning services, boosting market demand. The increasing number of co-working spaces and business hubs further fuels the need for professional cleaning solutions.
2. Increasing Awareness About Hygiene and Sanitation
Post-pandemic, both businesses and households have prioritised hygiene and sanitation. The demand for deep cleaning, disinfection, and specialised cleaning services has grown significantly. Hospitals, schools, and corporate offices are particularly focused on maintaining high cleanliness standards, contributing to market expansion.
3. Growth in Residential Cleaning Services
Busy lifestyles and dual-income households have led to increased demand for home cleaning services. Consumers seek convenient, reliable, and professional cleaning solutions to maintain their homes. Subscription-based and on-demand cleaning services have gained popularity, driving growth in the residential cleaning segment.
4. Rise of Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Cleaning Solutions
Environmental concerns have prompted consumers and businesses to opt for eco-friendly cleaning solutions. Green cleaning services, which use biodegradable and non-toxic cleaning products, are gaining traction. Companies offering sustainable and chemical-free cleaning are attracting environmentally conscious clients, boosting market growth.
5. Increasing Demand in Healthcare and Aged Care Facilities
With an ageing population, the demand for aged care facilities and healthcare institutions has increased. These facilities require high standards of hygiene, driving the need for specialised cleaning services. Infection control, sterilisation, and deep cleaning are essential for hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living centres, contributing to market expansion.
Market Challenges
1. High Competition Among Service Providers
The cleaning services market in Australia and New Zealand is highly competitive, with numerous small and large players offering similar services. Businesses must focus on differentiation, quality service, and competitive pricing to gain market share.
2. Labour Shortages and High Employee Turnover
The industry faces labour shortages, with challenges in hiring and retaining skilled cleaning staff. High employee turnover and the need for continuous training impact operational efficiency and profitability.
3. Rising Operational Costs
Cleaning service providers must manage rising costs related to labour, cleaning products, equipment, and transportation. Balancing cost efficiency with service quality is crucial for maintaining profitability in a competitive market.
4. Regulatory Compliance and Safety Standards
The industry must adhere to strict regulations and safety standards, especially for cleaning services in healthcare, food processing, and commercial sectors. Businesses must invest in training and certification to comply with industry standards, adding to operational costs.
Key Market Trends
1. Adoption of Technology in Cleaning Services
The industry is witnessing technological advancements with the adoption of robotic cleaners, automated vacuum systems, and IoT-enabled cleaning devices. These innovations improve efficiency, reduce labour dependency, and offer smart solutions for commercial and residential cleaning.
2. Growth of Subscription-Based and On-Demand Cleaning Services
Consumers prefer subscription-based and on-demand cleaning services, offering flexibility and convenience. Many companies provide customisable cleaning plans, catering to different client needs, from weekly house cleaning to specialised deep-cleaning services.
3. Expansion of Eco-Friendly and Green Cleaning Services
Sustainability is a key focus area, with many cleaning companies eliminating harsh chemicals and using natural, biodegradable products. Green cleaning solutions are gaining popularity among environmentally conscious consumers and businesses.
4. Increased Demand for Specialised Cleaning Services
Beyond general cleaning, specialised services like carpet cleaning, window cleaning, pest control, and post-construction cleaning are in demand. Businesses offering niche cleaning services are witnessing significant growth opportunities.
5. Growth in Corporate and Industrial Cleaning
The commercial and industrial sectors continue to drive demand for janitorial services, sanitation, and maintenance cleaning. Factories, warehouses, and manufacturing units require professional cleaning solutions to maintain workplace safety and hygiene.
Market Segmentation
1. By Service Type
- Commercial Cleaning – Offices, retail stores, hotels, hospitals
- Residential Cleaning – Home cleaning, deep cleaning, carpet and upholstery cleaning
- Industrial Cleaning – Factories, warehouses, construction sites
- Specialised Cleaning – Window cleaning, pest control, sanitisation services
2. By End-Use Sector
- Corporate Offices – Regular janitorial and maintenance services
- Healthcare Facilities – Sterilisation and infection control cleaning
- Hospitality Industry – Hotel cleaning, housekeeping services
- Educational Institutions – School and university cleaning services
- Retail and Shopping Centres – Daily maintenance cleaning
- Industrial Facilities – Heavy-duty cleaning, machinery maintenance
3. By Country
- Australia – Largest market, driven by urbanisation and corporate demand
- New Zealand – Fast-growing segment, driven by eco-friendly cleaning solutions
Future Opportunities and Market Outlook (2025-2034)
1. Expansion of Franchised Cleaning Services
Cleaning service franchises are expanding rapidly, offering standardised and professional cleaning solutions across cities. The franchise model provides growth opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs in the industry.
2. Integration of AI and Smart Cleaning Technologies
The rise of AI-powered cleaning robots and smart cleaning solutions is transforming the industry. IoT-enabled cleaning systems help monitor efficiency, automate schedules, and optimise cleaning tasks, reducing labour costs and improving service quality.
3. Growth in Government Contracts and Large-Scale Cleaning Projects
Governments and municipalities outsource large-scale cleaning contracts for public infrastructure, transportation hubs, and civic buildings. Securing government tenders offers long-term revenue opportunities for market players.
4. Rise in Biohazard and Industrial Cleaning Services
With increased health concerns, biohazard and industrial cleaning services are becoming essential. Disinfection services for hospitals, laboratories, and high-risk environments present a lucrative market opportunity.
5. Investment in Employee Training and Certification
Companies that invest in employee training, certification, and safety standards will stand out in the competitive market. Professional certification ensures high-quality service delivery, attracting more corporate and industrial clients.
