Copper Price Increase Explained (And How It Affects Brass and Bronze)

Copper prices in Australia have risen sharply since mid to late 2025, affecting a wide range of industries. These price increases are not unique to Australia, nor are they driven by local suppliers. Copper is one of the most sought after metals in the world, and as a globally traded commodity,its price is influenced by international supply and demand, geopolitical events, energy costs, and major economic trends. When global copper prices rise, Australian buyers feel the impact almost immediately.

Understanding why copper prices have increased, how this affects alloys like brass and bronze, and what suppliers such as Edcon Steel are doing to support customers can help businesses and individuals plan projects more effectively during a volatile period.

What’s Driving the Increase in Copper Prices?

The rise in copper prices since has been driven by several overlapping global factors.

Supply disruptions at major mines, including flooding, equipment failures, safety incidents, labour disputes, and planned maintenance shutdowns. When large copper mines reduce output, global supply tightens very quickly.

Reduced smelting capacity, particularly in China, where some copper smelters have cut production due to higher operating costs and lower profit margins. This limits the amount of usable copper available to the market.

How Rising Copper Prices Affect Brass and Bronze

Brass and bronze prices in Australia have increased alongside copper because both alloys contain a high percentage of copper.

Brass typically consists of around 60 to 70 per cent copper, combined mainly with zinc. Bronze usually contains even more copper, often between 85 and 90 per cent, with tin as the primary secondary metal.

Because copper makes up the majority of these alloys, changes in copper prices directly affect the cost of producing brass and bronze. When copper prices rise, manufacturers face higher raw material costs, which are passed through to suppliers and customers.

Impact on Australian Builders, Trades, and DIY Projects

Higher copper prices affect many industries across Australia.

Electricians face increased costs for copper wiring and cabling. Plumbers see higher prices for copper pipe and brass fittings. Builders and contractors must account for rising material costs when quoting jobs, particularly for larger projects or long-term contracts.

Manufacturers and fabricators using copper, brass, or bronze are also impacted. Increased material costs can reduce margins and require price adjustments, especially where contracts were priced before the recent increases.

How Edcon Steel Is Supporting Customers

Edcon Steel understands the challenges that rising copper prices create for customers across NSW and Australia. While global metal prices are outside local control, Edcon Steel focuses on reducing the impact wherever possible.

Clear communication is a priority. Edcon works to explain market conditions and pricing changes so customers can make informed decisions and plan ahead.

Where possible, Edcon Steel delays passing on price increases, absorbing higher costs for as long as it is commercially viable. This helps smooth sudden price movements and provides greater stability for customers.

Talk to the Team at Edcon Steel

Planning a project that uses copper, brass, or bronze? Speak with the team at Edcon Steel for up-to-date pricing, cut-to-size options, and expert advice to help you manage costs and plan with confidence.