Cost of Landscaping in Melbourne (2025 Price Guide)
Lawn mowing in Melbourne runs $50–$100 per visit. Full landscape design and installation starts at $8,000. New turf laid costs $25–$45 per square metre. Tree removal averages $400–$3,500 depending on size and access.
Melbourne's growing season (September–April) drives most landscaping demand. Many companies pivot to hard-landscaping in winter. Spring booking is essential — most landscapers are full from September. Significant retaining walls, decks attached to dwellings, and any work near sewer easements may require council planning or building approval. Tree removal often requires a Local Law permit.
Landscaping Costs in Melbourne
| Service | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Lawn mowing (standard suburban lot) | $50 | $100 |
| Spring or autumn cleanup | $250 | $700 |
| Turf installation (per sqm) | $25 | $45 |
| Tree removal (small, <8m) | $400 | $1,200 |
| Tree removal (large, >12m) | $2,000 | $3,500 |
| Irrigation system installation | $2,500 | $7,000 |
| Full landscape design & build | $8,000 | $80,000+ |
All prices are approximate estimates in Australian dollars (AUD) for the Melbourne metropolitan area. Always get written quotes before committing.
Licensing & Insurance in Victoria
Landscapers in Victoria don't need a specific trade licence for basic work. However, retaining walls over 1m generally require a Building Permit. Decks attached to a dwelling and any structural work require a VBA-registered Builder. Tree removal of significant trees often requires a Local Law permit — check your council before booking. Confirm $10M public liability insurance and current WorkCover before engaging anyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does lawn care cost in Melbourne?
- Regular lawn mowing in Melbourne runs $50–$100 per visit for a standard suburban lot. Most companies offer weekly or fortnightly plans at a slight discount. Spring cleanup averages $250–$700 and autumn cleanup runs similar.
- Do I need permits for landscaping in Melbourne?
- Most routine landscaping doesn't require permits. However, retaining walls over 1m, decks attached to your home, and removal of significant trees often require Building Permits or council Local Law permits. Your contractor should advise on what your project needs.
- When should I book landscaping in Melbourne?
- Book spring landscaping — turfing, irrigation, new planting — in late winter for September/October service. Melbourne landscapers fill quickly through spring and early summer. Autumn cleanup is best done March–April before the rains.
- Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Melbourne?
- It depends on your council and the tree. Most councils have a Local Law that protects significant or canopy trees over a certain trunk circumference. Always check with your council before removing any established tree — fines for unpermitted removal can be substantial.
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Home Renovation costs in Melbourne
Kitchen renovations in Melbourne average $25,000–$80,000. Bathroom renovations cost $18,000–$45,000. Full ground-floor extensions start at $250,000. Domestic Building Insurance is mandatory for any work over $16,000.
Painting costs in Melbourne
Professional interior painting in Melbourne costs $25–$50 per square metre of wall. A 3-bedroom home averages $4,500–$9,000. Exterior painting runs $6,000–$15,000 for a standard weatherboard or rendered home.
Flooring costs in Melbourne
Flooring installation in Melbourne runs $80–$150 per sqm for hybrid plank, $130–$220 for engineered timber, and $130–$280 for tile — fully installed. Hybrid plank is the most popular choice for renovations due to its waterproof core and quick install.