If you’ve ever stood in a hardware store staring at paint tins—Dulux, Taubmans, Haymes, Wattyl, Resene—you’ve probably asked yourself:
“What Paint Brands are the best in Australia?”
At Southern Highlands Painting & Wallpapering, we work on homes across Bowral, Mittagong, Moss Vale, and beyond—homes that face cold winters, hot summers, strong UV, and often, damp and shaded conditions. We’re often asked this question, and in this blog, we’ll give you clear, honest guidance based on real results, not just what’s on the label.
What Makes a Paint Brand “Better”?
Before we name brands, here’s what we look for as professionals:
- Durability – How long it lasts before fading, peeling or chalking
- Weather resistance – UV, rain, temperature changes
- Coverage – How well it hides the surface underneath
- Finish quality – The smoothness and consistency after drying
- Ease of application – How forgiving it is for brush, roller, or spray
- VOC rating – Important for indoor air quality
- Price vs performance – Value for money over time
Let’s go through the top brands we use regularly—and how they stack up in real Aussie homes.
1. Dulux – The Most Recognised, for a Reason
Strengths:
- Excellent UV and weather resistance
- Great colour retention
- Broad range of finishes and sheen levels
- Trusted for both interior and exterior
We Recommend Dulux For:
Homes exposed to strong sunlight (like high-elevation areas in the Southern Highlands) and clients who want premium, long-lasting results.
Things to Know:
It’s priced at the top end, and it’s worth using a primer first on raw or uneven surfaces.
2. Taubmans – Solid, Affordable, Reliable
Strengths:
- Developed with Nanoguard® technology for UV protection
- Good mould and mildew resistance
- Great price point for its performance
- Excellent for fences, walls, and large surface areas
We Recommend Taubmans For:
Budget-conscious projects or repainting jobs where cost matters but you still want solid results.
Things to Know:
Coverage can be slightly thinner, so plan for extra coats—especially for dark or bold colours.
3. Haymes – Premium, Aussie-Owned, Painter-Approved
Strengths:
- Locally made for Australian conditions
- Beautiful finishes, especially for interiors
- Great for feature walls and heritage homes
- Eco-conscious, low-VOC options
We Recommend Haymes For:
Homeowners who want something a little more boutique, especially for decorative interiors or higher-end repaints.
Things to Know:
May not be available in every hardware store—usually purchased through trade outlets.
4. Wattyl Solagard – A Good All-Rounder for Exteriors
Strengths:
- Longstanding reputation for exterior durability
- Mould and UV-resistant
- Good adhesion on masonry, timber, and fibro
- Mid-range in pricing
We Recommend Wattyl For:
Exterior weatherboards and homes in mixed climate zones—especially where there’s frequent rain or mist.
Things to Know:
Not quite as refined in finish as Dulux or Haymes, but excellent for long-term durability.
5. Resene – Built for Harsh Conditions
Strengths:
- Originally from New Zealand—great in cold, wet climates
- Highly resistant to salt, mould, and moisture
- Durable matte and low-sheen finishes
- Good range for timber exteriors
We Recommend Resene For:
Timber homes or properties near bushland where high humidity or mildew is a concern.
Things to Know:
Can feel like a “painter’s brand”—less flashy packaging, but very dependable.
So, Which One Is Best?
The honest answer: It depends on your home, your goals, and your budget.
Here’s what we typically advise:
- Dulux if you want premium quality, long-term colour, and top-tier weather protection.
- Taubmans if you’re after value, reliability, and decent performance on a budget.
- Haymes if finish and aesthetics are your priority—especially inside.
- Wattyl for exterior projects that need strong adhesion and mould resistance.
- Resene for timber-rich or moisture-prone properties.
Our Final Thoughts
There’s no universal “best” paint brand—but there is a best brand for your project.
At Southern Highlands Painting, we don’t just grab whatever’s on the shelf. We look at your home’s surface, environment, budget, and expectations, then choose the product that makes sense.
Still unsure what’s right for your home? We’re happy to help—get in touch for advice or a free quote tailored to your needs.