Service	Low	Typical	High
Landscaper (hourly rate)	$55/hr	$80	$110
Garden design / plan	$800per plan	$2,000	$5,000
Natural turf — supply & lay	$15/sqm	$28	$40
Synthetic turf — supply & install	$50/sqm	$75	$120
Retaining wall (timber sleeper)	$150/sqm	$300	$500
Retaining wall (concrete sleeper)	$250/sqm	$450	$700
Garden bed (plants + mulch)	$50/sqm	$100	$180
Irrigation system	$1,600total	$2,800	$4,500
Paving / pavers	$60/sqm	$100	$160
Decking (hardwood)	$300/sqm	$500	$750
Basic backyard makeover	$5,000total	$12,000	$20,000
Full landscape (new home)	$15,000total	$30,000	$60,000

Prices verified February 2026 · Cross-referenced against 90+ Australian trade pricing sources · See methodology

National average prices. Select a city above for location-specific pricing.

Plumbing costs in Australia depend on the type of job, your location, and whether it's an emergency. A simple tap repair might cost $120–$250, while a full bathroom rough-in can run $3,000–$8,000. Most landscapings charge an hourly rate plus a call-out fee, though many offer fixed-price quotes for common jobs like blocked drains or toilet installations.

Hourly rates typically range from $80 to $200 per hour during business hours, with the national average sitting around $120/hr. After-hours and emergency work usually attracts a 50–100% surcharge. Material costs are almost always charged separately.

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What Affects Landscaping Costs

Job type & complexity

A simple washer replacement takes 15 minutes. Replacing a hot water system or re-plumbing a bathroom takes a full day or more. Complexity is the biggest cost driver.

Time of day

After-hours work (evenings, weekends, public holidays) typically adds 50–100% to the standard hourly rate. Non-urgent jobs should always be booked during business hours.

Materials & parts

Labour is only half the equation. Parts range from a few dollars for a tap washer to $2,000+ for a hot water unit. Always ask if quotes include materials.

Your location

Sydney and Darwin tend to be most expensive, while Adelaide and Hobart are generally more affordable. Inner-city jobs also attract premiums for parking and access.

Emergency vs scheduled

A burst pipe at 2am will cost significantly more than the same repair booked for Tuesday morning. If it can wait, it should.

Licence & experience

Master landscapings with decades of experience charge more, but often work faster and diagnose problems more accurately. Both they and newer landscapings carry the same licence requirements.

How to Save Money on Landscaping Costs

Get at least 3 quotes — prices vary significantly between landscapings for the same job

Book during business hours (Mon–Fri 7am–5pm) to avoid after-hours surcharges

Ask for a fixed-price quote rather than hourly where possible, especially for common jobs

Bundle multiple small jobs into one visit to save on repeat call-out fees

Check your landscaping's licence on your state authority website before hiring

Ask if the quote includes GST, call-out fee, and parts — some don't

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a landscaping charge per hour in Australia?

Most Australian landscapings charge between $80 and $200 per hour during standard business hours. The national average is around $120/hr. Emergency and after-hours rates are typically 1.5x to 2x higher.

Do landscapings charge a call-out fee?

Yes, most landscapings charge a call-out or service fee of $60–$150 just to come to your property. This covers travel time and is usually charged on top of the hourly rate. Some landscapings waive it if you proceed with the work.

Is it cheaper to repair or replace a hot water system?

If your system is under 8 years old and the repair costs less than $400, repairing is usually worthwhile. For systems over 10–12 years old, replacement is often more economical — especially when switching to a heat pump, which may qualify for government rebates.

Why do plumbing costs vary so much between cities?

Labour costs, demand, cost of living, and licensing requirements all vary by state and city. Sydney and Darwin have the highest rates due to high demand and cost of living. Regional areas tend to be cheaper but may charge higher call-out fees for travel.

What plumbing work requires a licensed landscaping?

In Australia, almost all plumbing work must be done by a licensed landscaping — including fixing leaks, installing hot water systems, gas fitting, and any work connected to the water supply or sewer. DIY plumbing is illegal in most states and can void your insurance.

About This Guide

Our landscaping cost guides cover 12 major Australian cities with location-adjusted pricing. Updated quarterly — last reviewed February 2026.