Custom Map Printing Australia

Specialist large-format printing for maps, GIS projects, plans and charts

Turn your digital mapping into a clear, durable and practical printed map.

Mapworld provides specialist custom map printing for customers throughout Australia. We print supplied maps, GIS outputs, plans, charts, aerial imagery and historical cartography at sizes up to 1650 mm wide (64 inches), with a choice of professional paper, waterproof Tyvek, canvas and lamination.

Maps are not ordinary posters. Scale, fine linework, labels, contours, boundaries and colour separation all matter. With more than 30 years in the map industry and a dedicated HP large-format production environment, Mapworld understands how a technical file needs to perform once it leaves the screen.

Whether you need one map for a field trip, a large laminated planning map for an operations room, a canvas map for a boardroom or multiple copies for a project team, we will review the job and recommend the most suitable size, material and finish.

Request a Printing Quote
Prefer to talk it through? Call 1300 795 697.

At a glance

• Print widths up to 1650 mm / 64 inches

• Maps, GIS outputs, plans, charts and aerial imagery

• Paper, waterproof Tyvek, canvas and laminated finishes

• Exact-scale printing where the supplied file permits it

• One-off prints and commercial quantities

• Printed in Australia and delivered Australia-wide

• Every custom job reviewed before production

What can Mapworld print?

We regularly work with:

• GIS maps exported from ArcGIS, QGIS, MapInfo and other spatial platforms

• topographic and terrain maps

• property, cadastral and land-management maps

• mining, exploration and resource-project maps

• emergency-management and operational planning maps

• agricultural and pastoral maps

• environmental, conservation and catchment maps

• engineering drawings, site plans and infrastructure maps

• architectural plans and technical line drawings

• nautical charts and marine-planning maps

• aerial photography and satellite imagery

• historical maps and chart reproductions

• educational and classroom maps

• film, television and exhibition map displays

• custom-sized wall maps for offices, boardrooms and homes

If you are unsure whether your file is suitable, send us the details. We can check the dimensions, resolution and intended scale before you commit to production.

Need a map rather than a print? Tell us what area and information you need. We may be able to recommend an existing map from Mapworld’s range or advise what print-ready artwork will be required. Cartographic design, data preparation and complex file repair are quoted separately where available.

Choose the right material for the job

Professional paper

Best for framing, reports, office display, presentations and maps that will be stored flat or rolled.

Mapworld selects the paper to suit the file and intended use. Professional matte media helps retain fine text, linework and colour without the glare associated with ordinary poster stock. Archival FSC papers are available for appropriate display projects.

Best for: wall maps, plans, technical presentations, historical maps and framed prints.

Waterproof Tyvek

Best for maps that will be folded, carried, handled repeatedly or used outdoors.

Tyvek is waterproof, lightweight and highly tear-resistant. It is an excellent choice for topographic maps, emergency-service maps, mining and exploration projects, expeditions, field surveys, outdoor education and remote-area work.

Unlike a laminated map, Tyvek remains flexible and can be folded for transport.

Best for: field maps, bushwalking, remote operations, training, surveying and outdoor use.

Laminated maps and plans

Best for planning rooms, operations centres, classrooms and any map that needs a wipe-clean protective surface.

Mapworld offers professional encapsulation using laminate selected for the size and application. Common options include 75, 80 and 100 micron laminate. A laminated map is protected from dirt, moisture, fingerprints and repeated handling and can be marked with a compatible write-on/wipe-off system.

Best for: sales territories, logistics, emergency planning, education, site management and team briefings.

HP Professional Matte Canvas

Best for presentation-quality maps, historical cartography and large decorative wall pieces.

Selected projects can be printed on 395 gsm HP Professional Matte Canvas using pigment-based inks. Canvas gives a map texture and visual depth while preserving the cartographic detail that makes it useful. Canvas can be supplied rolled, with timber hang rails available for suitable projects.

Best for: boardrooms, reception areas, homes, libraries, historical maps and feature walls.

Large-format map printing up to 1650 mm wide

Mapworld can print up to 1650 mm wide in a single piece, subject to the selected material, finishing requirements and the proportions of the artwork. The other dimension can often extend considerably further because the map is printed from a roll.

This makes it possible to produce:

• extra-large wall maps

• wide regional or corridor maps

• two-metre planning displays

• enlarged site and infrastructure plans

• boardroom and operations-centre maps

• custom prints sized to suit an existing frame or wall

For projects larger than the practical single-piece limit, ask us about proportional resizing or a carefully planned multi-panel solution.

Printing maps at the correct scale

When scale matters, tell us before production.

A map labelled 1:25,000, 1:50,000 or 1:100,000 will only retain that scale when the source file is exported at the correct page size and printed without unintended enlargement or reduction. We can print to the supplied page dimensions and check a stated scale bar, but the accuracy of the underlying data and original export remains the responsibility of the file creator.

For scale-critical work, please provide:

• the required finished page size

• the intended map scale

• a visible scale bar

• any required trim margins

• confirmation that the file has been exported at 100 per cent

• a known measurement we can use as a reasonableness check

We will not knowingly resize a scale-critical map without discussing the effect with you first.

How custom map printing works

1. Tell us about the project

Complete the quote form with the map type, finished size, quantity, preferred material, delivery postcode and required date.

2. Upload a proof file

Attach a PDF, JPEG or SVG of up to 20 MB where possible. If the production file is larger, contains multiple files or uses a format that the form cannot accept, submit the enquiry first and we will provide separate file-transfer instructions.

3. We review the file

We check the supplied dimensions, resolution, scale requirements and proposed finish. If there is a risk of soft text, missing detail, unsuitable proportions or an incorrect scale, we will raise it before printing.

4. You receive a written quote

The quote will confirm the finished size, material, finish, quantity, production time, delivery and price. No custom work begins until the specification and quote are approved.

5. We print and finish the map

Your map is produced using the most suitable HP large-format printer and media for the job, then trimmed, laminated or otherwise finished as quoted.

6. Collection or Australia-wide delivery

Finished maps can be collected by arrangement or packed for delivery throughout Australia. Rolled maps are protected in sturdy mailing tubes or appropriate commercial packaging.

Turnaround times

Every custom project is different, so the confirmed production time will appear on the quote.

As a practical guide:

• straightforward paper, Tyvek or rolled-canvas jobs: usually 2–5 working days after artwork approval

• laminated, oversized, multi-copy or technically complex jobs: usually 5–10 working days after artwork approval

• timber hang-rail finishing: allow up to 10 working days

Delivery time is additional and depends on the destination and package size. If the project is urgent, include the fixed deadline in the quote request. We will tell you honestly whether it can be achieved before accepting the job.

Mapworld projects in practice

Remote operations and regional planning

Mapworld has supported Royal Flying Doctor Service teams and users for more than 30 years with regional maps, topographic maps, large-format planning resources, navigation products, training and technical knowledge. The work reflects the importance of clear physical mapping across remote Australia.

Read about Mapworld and the Royal Flying Doctor Service

Film and television production

Production designers, prop buyers and art departments use maps to establish place, period and purpose. Mapworld has supplied maps, globes and flags to film and television work and can produce enlargements, multiple copies, laminated marking maps and large-format set displays where suitable.

See Mapworld’s film and television work

Field-ready topographic maps

Mapworld prints selected Australian topographic mapping on waterproof, tear-resistant Tyvek for bushwalking, outdoor education, emergency preparation, exploration and remote fieldwork. The map remains foldable and usable when ordinary paper would be vulnerable to water and hard handling.

Explore Australia’s AUSTopo 1:250,000 maps

Large planning and display maps

Mapworld regularly produces large paper, laminated and canvas maps for schools, offices, boardrooms, planning rooms, logistics, government, mining and resource organisations. Custom sizing allows a map to fit a particular wall, display system or existing frame.

See how Mapworld’s HP print room produces large maps

Conversion upgrade: Add one genuine photograph to each project block. Caption it with the finished dimensions, material, intended use and turnaround. Obtain client approval before naming an organisation or showing sensitive operational information. Real photographs and measurable specifications will be substantially more persuasive than stock or AI-generated imagery.

Preparing a file for the best result

Preferred production format

A print-ready PDF is usually the safest format because it can preserve the page size, vector linework, text and embedded fonts.

We can also assess TIFF, JPEG, PNG, SVG and other common files. Files originating in ArcGIS, QGIS, MapInfo, AutoCAD, Adobe Illustrator and similar applications should normally be exported to a self-contained, print-ready PDF before transfer. Native project files can depend on external data, fonts, links and software settings and may not reproduce correctly on another system.

Before sending the file

• Set the page to the intended finished size.

• Embed fonts or convert specialist labels to outlines where appropriate.

• Keep vector text and linework as vectors where possible.

• For raster imagery, aim for approximately 150–300 ppi at the final size.

• Include the map title, legend, north point, scale bar, datum and projection where relevant.

• State whether exact scale is operationally important.

• Check that every layer intended for print is visible.

• Remove confidential layers and metadata that are not required in the output.

• Confirm that you own the artwork or have permission to reproduce it.

If the file contains sensitive infrastructure, personal, commercial or operational information, tell us before transferring it so an appropriate delivery method can be agreed.

Why choose Mapworld instead of a general printer?

Maps are our core business

Mapworld has worked with maps, charts, globes and navigation products for more than 30 years. We understand the difference between a decorative print and a map that must remain legible, correctly scaled and fit for its intended use.

Professional HP large-format production

Mapworld’s print room includes specialist HP equipment selected for photographic quality, fine technical linework, high-speed production, canvas, waterproof media and very large output. Pigment-based inks support durable, professional results.

Material advice based on use

The most expensive finish is not automatically the right one. A flexible Tyvek map may outperform lamination in the field, while a laminated map may be better for a planning wall and canvas may be best for presentation.

Individual file review

Custom jobs are reviewed before production. If the source file is unlikely to reproduce well at the requested size, we will explain the issue rather than simply printing a disappointing result.

One print or a larger project

Mapworld can assist with a single custom map, repeat orders and commercial quantities. Government, education, emergency services, resources, property, tourism, logistics and private customers are welcome.

Request a custom map printing quote

Tell us what the finished map needs to do, not only how large you want it. That helps us recommend the right material and finish.

Request a Printing Quote

For urgent work or help specifying the project, call 1300 795 697.

Suggested form introduction

Upload a proof file and tell us the required size, material, quantity and deadline. We will review the request and reply with a written quote and estimated production time. If the final artwork is larger than 20 MB or uses a specialist GIS/CAD format, submit the form without it and we will send separate transfer instructions.

Frequently asked questions

Can Mapworld print a map from my PDF?

Yes. A print-ready PDF is usually the preferred format because it can preserve the intended page size, fonts, vector linework and scale. We will review the supplied dimensions and intended finish before quoting.

Can you print GIS maps exported from ArcGIS or QGIS?

Yes. Export the layout as a self-contained, print-ready PDF wherever possible. Include the intended finished size and tell us if the map must remain at an exact scale. Native GIS projects are not normally suitable as final print files because they may rely on linked data, fonts and software settings.

Can you print maps at 1:25,000, 1:50,000 or another exact scale?

Yes, provided the source file has been correctly created at that scale and is printed at the intended page size. Include a scale bar, the required page dimensions and a known measurement. Mapworld can preserve the supplied print scale but cannot certify the accuracy of the underlying spatial data.

What is the largest map you can print?

Mapworld can print up to approximately 1650 mm wide in a single piece, subject to the selected material and finishing method. Because printing is roll-fed, the other dimension can often be longer. Very large jobs may require proportional resizing or multiple panels.

Can you print waterproof maps?

Yes. Waterproof and tear-resistant Tyvek is available for suitable projects. It is flexible, foldable and ideal for field maps, topographic mapping, emergency use and outdoor work.

Can you laminate a large map or plan?

Yes. Mapworld professionally laminates suitable maps and plans, with capacity up to approximately 1650 mm wide depending on the job. Common laminate options include 75, 80 and 100 micron.

Can you print a map on canvas?

Yes. Selected maps and supplied artwork can be printed on 395 gsm HP Professional Matte Canvas. Canvas is best for decorative maps, historical cartography, reception areas, offices, boardrooms and feature walls.

Do you print one-off maps?

Yes. One-off custom prints are welcome, as are repeat orders and larger commercial projects.

Do you deliver throughout Australia?

Yes. Mapworld supplies customers throughout Australia. Rolled maps are packed in protective tubes or other packaging appropriate to the dimensions and finish. Freight is confirmed in the quote.

Can Mapworld design a new map for me?

Start by telling us the area, purpose and information required. We may be able to recommend an existing map or advise what print-ready artwork is needed. Cartographic design, spatial-data preparation and substantial file repair are separate from printing and are quoted only where available.

Can you reproduce any map or chart I upload?

The customer must own the artwork or have permission to reproduce it. Mapworld may decline files where copyright, licensing, confidentiality, safety or legality is uncertain. Customer-supplied nautical charts and technical documents are printed as supplied; the customer remains responsible for their currency, accuracy and suitability. For navigation or other safety-critical work, use current authorised material and applicable professional procedures.

Ready to turn your file into a working map?

Request a quote and tell us the size, material, quantity, deadline and how the map will be used. Mapworld will review the project and recommend a practical way to print it.

Request a Printing Quote
Call 1300 795 697