Updated April 2026· Independently researched·14 min read
Most landscaping jobs in Melbourne cost $5,250–$21,000
for a basic backyard makeover
That covers turf, garden beds, basic paving, and planting for a standard Melbourne backyard. Hourly rates run $58–$115/hr. Full landscape designs for new homes start from $15,750 and can exceed $63,000.
+4.3%Landscaping costs in Melbourne have risen this quarter, driven by strong construction activity and trade shortages.Q1 2026 vs Q4 2025
Average Landscaping Cost in Melbourne
$126
per hour for standard residential work
Call-Out Fee
$63–$158
Emergency Rate
$263–$735
Common Job
$158–$420
Budget $84/hrAverage $126/hrPremium $210/hr
Landscaping in Melbourne costs $58–$115 per hour for a landscaper, or $5,250–$21,000 for a basic backyard makeover including turf, garden beds, and simple hardscaping. Full landscape packages for new homes run $15,750–$63,000 depending on scope and materials.
We've compiled pricing from landscapers across Melbourne, plus hipages, leading tradie platforms, and leading tradie platforms listings as of February 2026. All prices include GST.
Quick answerLandscaping in Melbourne costs $58–$115 /hr, with most averaging $84 /hr. GST included — verified April 2026. Get free Melbourne quotes →
Detailed Pricing — Melbourne 2026
Service
Low
Typical
High
Landscaper (hourly rate)
$58/hr
$84
$115
Garden design / plan
$840per plan
$2,100
$5,250
Natural turf — supply & lay
$16/sqm
$29
$42
Synthetic turf — supply & install
$52/sqm
$79
$125
Retaining wall (timber sleeper)
$160/sqm
$315
$525
Retaining wall (concrete sleeper)
$260/sqm
$470
$735
Garden bed (plants + mulch)
$52/sqm
$105
$190
Irrigation system
$1,675total
$2,950
$4,725
Paving / pavers
$63/sqm
$105
$170
Decking (hardwood)
$315/sqm
$525
$790
Basic backyard makeover
$5,250total
$12,600
$21,000
Full landscape (new home)
$15,750total
$31,500
$63,000
Getting quotes for landscaping work in Melbourne? Get a quote from a verified local tradie — free, no obligation.
Prices verified April 2026 · Cross-referenced against 90+ Australian trade pricing sources · See methodology
Prices include GST. Based on Melbourne metro area, Mar 2026. Outer suburbs may vary.
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How Prices Vary Across Melbourne
Landscaping costs in Melbourne vary by suburb. Inner-city areas tend to have higher rates due to demand and access constraints, while outer suburbs and growth corridors are often more competitive. Getting multiple quotes from providers across your area is the best way to find a fair price.
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A simple turf and garden bed job in Melbourne ($5,250–$21,000) is very different to a full landscape with retaining walls, decking, and irrigation ($15,750–$63,000). Define your scope clearly before getting quotes.
Hardscaping vs softscaping
Hardscaping (paving at $63–$170/sqm, decking at $315–$790/sqm) costs more than softscaping (turf at $16–$42/sqm, plants, mulch) in Melbourne. Most projects combine both.
Site conditions
Sloping blocks, rocky soil, poor drainage, and limited access in Melbourne all increase costs. A flat, accessible block is the cheapest to landscape.
Plant & material selection
Native and drought-tolerant plants suit Melbourne's climate and are cheaper long-term (less water, less maintenance). Premium materials like natural stone paving cost 2–3x more than basic options.
Irrigation
An irrigation system ($1,675–$4,725 in Melbourne) adds cost upfront but saves water and time long-term. Essential for large lawns or garden beds.
Design fees
A professional landscape design ($840–$5,250 in Melbourne) isn't mandatory but helps avoid costly mistakes and ensures a cohesive result, especially for larger projects.
How to Save Money on Landscaping in Melbourne
1
Get quotes from licensed Melbourne landscapers — scope and pricing vary enormously
2
Start with a professional design plan for projects over $10,000 — it pays for itself in avoided mistakes
3
Choose drought-tolerant and native plants suited to Melbourne's climate to reduce long-term water costs
4
Stage larger projects if budget is tight — hardscaping first, then softscaping
5
Ask about soil quality and drainage before planting — poor soil prep leads to plant failure
6
Check if the Melbourne quote includes site cleanup, waste removal, and a maintenance guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Landscaping costs by Melbourne suburb
Select your suburb for a tailored price guide with local pricing notes and nearby comparisons.
How much does a landscaper charge per hour in Melbourne?
Landscapers in Melbourne typically charge $58–$115 per hour. However, most landscaping work is quoted as a fixed project price rather than hourly.
How much does a backyard makeover cost in Melbourne?
A basic backyard makeover in Melbourne costs $5,250–$21,000, covering turf, garden beds, mulch, and simple hardscaping. Full landscape transformations run $15,750–$63,000+.
How much does turf cost to supply and lay in Melbourne?
Natural turf supply and installation in Melbourne costs $16–$42/sqm. Synthetic turf is $52–$125/sqm — more expensive upfront but zero maintenance.
How much does decking cost in Melbourne?
Hardwood decking in Melbourne costs $315–$790/sqm supply and installed. Composite decking is similar in price but lower maintenance.
Do I need a landscape design?
Not for small projects, but for anything over $10,000 a professional design ($840–$5,250 in Melbourne) is highly recommended. It ensures proper drainage, plant selection, and avoids expensive changes mid-project.
How long does a landscaping project take?
A basic backyard makeover in Melbourne takes 1–2 weeks. A full landscape design and build for a new home can take 4–8 weeks depending on scope, weather, and material availability.
Our Methodology
Prices on this page are compiled from publicly available cost guides, leading tradie marketplaces, peak industry body data, and individual tradesperson websites across Australia. We cross-reference ranges from multiple sources and adjust for city-specific cost differences based on advertised rates, salary data, and cost-of-living indicators. Our guides are independently produced — we don't employ tradespeople and have no commercial relationship with any service provider. All prices are estimates and will vary based on your specific job. Always get multiple quotes. Last reviewed April 2026. Read our full methodology →
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