Landscaping Cost Guide Australia — 2026 Prices
Garden design, lawn installation, retaining walls and irrigation system costs. What Australian homeowners pay for landscaping in 2026.
How Much Does Landscaping Cost in Australia?
Landscaping costs in Australia range from $3,000 for a basic garden tidy-up to $100,000+ for a complete outdoor transformation with pools, decking and outdoor kitchens. Most homeowners spend $8,000–$30,000 for a mid-range backyard landscaping project.
| Job / Item | Low | Average | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hourly labour rate | $60 | $85 | $130 |
| Garden design fee | $500 | $1,500 | $5,000 |
| Lawn installation (turf) | $8/m² | $15/m² | $30/m² |
| Retaining wall (timber) | $200/m | $350/m | $600/m |
| Retaining wall (concrete block) | $350/m | $550/m | $900/m |
| Irrigation system | $1,500 | $3,500 | $8,000 |
| Backyard transformation (full) | $8,000 | $25,000 | $60,000+ |
Frequently Asked Questions
DIY Landscaping vs Hiring a Landscaper — Where's the Line?
Basic landscaping like planting, mulching and lawn care is very DIY-friendly. But retaining walls over 600mm, drainage work, irrigation systems and structural features like decks and pergolas all require licensed tradespeople and often council permits. Our full comparison shows exactly what you can tackle yourself and what needs a pro.
Now you know the cost — here's how to hire the right tradie
Knowing a fair price is only half the battle. Use these guides to collect accurate quotes, verify licences, and avoid the most common hiring mistakes.
Find Landscaping Services Near You
Browse verified landscaping tradies by state — with suburb-level pricing, reviews and availability.
Compare Landscaping Costs by State
Cost Guides Hub
All 10 Australian trade cost guides — plumber, electrician, concreting, pest control and more in one place.