Updated May 2026· Independently researched·14 min read
Most landscaping jobs in Wollongong cost $5,400–$21,600
for a basic backyard makeover
That covers turf, garden beds, basic paving, and planting for a standard Wollongong backyard. Hourly rates run $59–$120/hr. Full landscape designs for new homes start from $16,200 and can exceed $64,800.
+5.1%Landscaping costs in Wollongong have risen this quarter, driven by strong construction activity and trade shortages.Q1 2026 vs Q4 2025
Average Landscaping Cost in Wollongong
$138
per hour for standard residential work
Call-Out Fee
$69–$173
Emergency Rate
$288–$805
Common Job
$173–$460
Budget $92/hrAverage $138/hrPremium $230/hr
Landscaping in Wollongong costs $59–$120 per hour for a landscaper, or $5,400–$21,600 for a basic backyard makeover including turf, garden beds, and simple hardscaping. Full landscape packages for new homes run $16,200–$64,800 depending on scope and materials.
We've compiled pricing from landscapers across Wollongong, plus leading tradie platforms listings as of February 2026. All prices include GST.
Quick answerLandscaping in Wollongong costs $59–$120 /hr, with most averaging $86 /hr. GST included — verified May 2026. Get free Wollongong quotes →
Detailed Pricing — Wollongong 2026
Service
Low
Typical
High
Landscaper (hourly rate)
$59/hr
$86
$120
Garden design / plan
$865per plan
$2,150
$5,400
Natural turf — supply & lay
$16/sqm
$30
$43
Synthetic turf — supply & install
$54/sqm
$81
$130
Retaining wall (timber sleeper)
$160/sqm
$325
$540
Retaining wall (concrete sleeper)
$270/sqm
$485
$755
Garden bed (plants + mulch)
$54/sqm
$110
$195
Irrigation system
$1,725total
$3,025
$4,850
Paving / pavers
$65/sqm
$110
$175
Decking (hardwood)
$325/sqm
$540
$810
Basic backyard makeover
$5,400total
$12,950
$21,600
Full landscape (new home)
$16,200total
$32,400
$64,800
Getting quotes for landscaping work in Wollongong? Get a quote from a verified local tradie — free, no obligation.
Prices verified May 2026 · Cross-referenced against 90+ Australian trade pricing sources · See methodology
Prices include GST. Based on Wollongong metro area, Mar 2026. Outer suburbs may vary.
How Prices Vary Across Wollongong
Landscaping costs in Wollongong 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 Wollongong ($5,400–$21,600) is very different to a full landscape with retaining walls, decking, and irrigation ($16,200–$64,800). Define your scope clearly before getting quotes.
Hardscaping vs softscaping
Hardscaping (paving at $65–$175/sqm, decking at $325–$810/sqm) costs more than softscaping (turf at $16–$43/sqm, plants, mulch) in Wollongong. Most projects combine both.
Site conditions
Sloping blocks, rocky soil, poor drainage, and limited access in Wollongong all increase costs. A flat, accessible block is the cheapest to landscape.
Plant & material selection
Native and drought-tolerant plants suit Wollongong'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 ($1,725–$4,850 in Wollongong) adds cost upfront but saves water and time long-term. Essential for large lawns or garden beds.
Design fees
A professional landscape design ($865–$5,400 in Wollongong) isn't mandatory but helps avoid costly mistakes and ensures a cohesive result, especially for larger projects.
How to Save Money on Landscaping in Wollongong
1
Get quotes from licensed Wollongong 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 Wollongong'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 Wollongong quote includes site cleanup, waste removal, and a maintenance guide
Before you commit — compare your options
Side-by-side guides covering the decisions that most change your final landscaping cost.
How much does a landscaper charge per hour in Wollongong?
Landscapers in Wollongong typically charge $59–$120 per hour. However, most landscaping work is quoted as a fixed project price rather than hourly.
How much does a backyard makeover cost in Wollongong?
A basic backyard makeover in Wollongong costs $5,400–$21,600, covering turf, garden beds, mulch, and simple hardscaping. Full landscape transformations run $16,200–$64,800+.
How much does turf cost to supply and lay in Wollongong?
Natural turf supply and installation in Wollongong costs $16–$43/sqm. Synthetic turf is $54–$130/sqm — more expensive upfront but zero maintenance.
How much does decking cost in Wollongong?
Hardwood decking in Wollongong costs $325–$810/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 ($865–$5,400 in Wollongong) 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 Wollongong 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 May 2026. Read our full methodology →
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