Key Cutting Canberra

What We Cut

This page covers keys copied from an existing, usable key. If you no longer have a working key, see Key Replacement Canberra.

Residential and Standard Property Keys

Supported Key Profiles

We cut the standard key profiles used on most Australian homes, including keys for widely used residential brands such as Lockwood, Gainsborough, Schlage, Yale and Whitco. If your key has an unusual profile or a blank we do not carry in the van, we will tell you before booking and explain the options, including ordering a blank.

Keys We Cut Only With Authorisation

Restricted and registered keys use a protected profile that standard machines cannot copy. These are only duplicated with approval from the registered key holder or nominated signatory. Learn how authorised duplication works on our Restricted Key Systems page. Car keys are handled separately. For transponder, remote and proximity keys, see Automotive Car Key Support.

Spare Copies vs Replacement Copies

Spare copies are extra keys cut from a key that works well. They suit new household members, carers, cleaners, house sitters or simply keeping a backup in a safe place. Replacement copies are new keys cut to replace one that is bent, cracked, worn down or starting to stick. Copying a badly worn key can copy the wear too, so where a key is heavily worn we may cut to the lock’s original code or decode the lock to produce a clean, accurate key. If a key is snapped, too damaged to read, or no longer turns the lock, a copy is not the right fix. We will recommend a key replacement, rekey or lock repair instead.

Mobile or By Appointment?

Our workshop at 17 Debenham Street, Mawson operates by appointment only, so please call before visiting. Mobile key cutting is available across Canberra and nearby NSW towns including Queanbeyan, Jerrabomberra and Bungendore.

How to Book Key Cutting

1. Call 02 6290 1938 or send an enquiry. Tell us how many keys you need, what they open and your suburb.
2. Send a photo if you can. A clear photo of both sides of the key helps us confirm the profile and blank before we arrive.
3. Get a clear quote. We confirm the price or price range before any keys are cut.
4. Choose mobile or workshop. We attend your property, or book a time at our Mawson workshop.
5. Keys cut and tested. We check each copy against the original and, for mobile jobs, test it in the lock.

Proof of Authority

For standard house keys copied from a key you already hold, we may ask for your name and the property address so each job is recorded.

For anything more sensitive, we need proof that you are entitled to the keys:

• Restricted or registered keys: approval from the registered key holder or nominated signatory, and the key card or authority documents where the system uses them.
• Keys for a property you do not occupy: written authority from the owner, landlord or managing agent.
• Strata and common-area keys: approval from the owners corporation or strata manager.

We can decline to cut any key where authority is unclear. This protects you as much as anyone else.

How Long Does Key Cutting Take?

Most standard house key copies are cut in minutes once we are on-site or you arrive for your appointment. Turnaround can be longer when:

• The key blank is uncommon and needs to be ordered
• The original key is heavily worn and needs to be cut to code or decoded from the lock
• The key is restricted and authority must be confirmed first
• You need a large number of keys or keys for several different locks

We will give you a realistic timeframe when you book.

What Affects the Price?

Key cutting is priced on request because every job differs. The main factors are:

• Key type and blank: standard keys cost less than security, high-security or restricted keys
• Number of keys: cutting several copies in one visit reduces the cost per key
• Mobile or workshop: mobile cutting includes a call-out fee; daytime call-outs are typically $110 to $150 including GST
• Time of service: after-hours, weekend and public holiday call-outs typically range from $200 to $350 including GST
• Key condition: cutting to code or decoding a lock adds labour

You always get the price before we start. See our full Pricing Guide. A 10% pensioner discount is available.

Why Canberra Homes Use Night & Day Locksmiths

• Family owned and serving Canberra since 1979
• MLAA member #9452 and ACT Licence 17501550
• Police-checked, insured technicians
• Fully equipped mobile vans with on-site key cutting
• Upfront quotes with no hidden fees
• 3-month workmanship warranty

Need a spare key? Call 02 6290 1938 for a free, obligation-free quote.