A well-designed landscape can completely transform your property. It improves street appeal, creates functional outdoor living spaces, increases property value, and makes your home more enjoyable year-round.
However, before starting a landscaping project, one question comes up almost every time:
How much does landscaping cost in Melbourne?
The answer depends on several factors, including the size of your property, the type of landscaping work, material choices, site conditions, and labour requirements.
Some Melbourne homeowners spend a few thousand dollars on basic garden upgrades. Others invest tens of thousands into complete outdoor transformations with paving, retaining walls, artificial grass, decking, lighting, and irrigation systems.
Understanding landscaping costs before requesting quotes can help you budget accurately and avoid expensive surprises.
In this detailed guide, we’ll break down average landscaping costs in Melbourne, explain what affects pricing, compare different landscaping services, and provide practical budgeting advice to help you plan your project with confidence.
What Is Landscaping?
Landscaping involves designing, building, and improving outdoor spaces.
It generally includes two categories:
Soft Landscaping
Soft landscaping focuses on living elements such as:
- Turf installation
- Artificial grass
- Plants and shrubs
- Trees
- Garden beds
- Mulching
- Irrigation systems
Hard Landscaping
Hard landscaping includes structural features such as:
- Paving
- Decking
- Retaining walls
- Outdoor kitchens
- Pergolas
- Pathways
- Stonework
Most Melbourne landscaping projects combine both elements to create a balanced and functional outdoor area.
Average Landscaping Cost in Melbourne
Landscaping costs vary significantly depending on project scope.
The following table provides a general overview.
| Project Type | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Basic Garden Refresh | $3,000 – $8,000 |
| Small Landscaping Project | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Medium Landscaping Project | $15,000 – $40,000 |
| Complete Backyard Transformation | $40,000 – $100,000+ |
| Luxury Landscape Design & Construction | $100,000 – $250,000+ |
As a rule, larger projects require more labour, materials, machinery, and planning.
Therefore, costs rise quickly as complexity increases.
Landscaping Cost Per Square Metre
Many homeowners ask for a price per square metre.
While landscaping is highly customized, the following estimates can help.
| Landscaping Quality | Cost Per m² |
| Basic | $50 – $150 |
| Standard | $150 – $350 |
| Premium | $350 – $800+ |
For example:
A 100m² backyard may cost:
- Basic landscaping: $5,000–$15,000
- Standard landscaping: $15,000–$35,000
- Premium landscaping: $35,000–$80,000+
Factors That Affect Landscaping Costs
No two properties are identical.
Several factors influence landscaping cost in Melbourne.
Property Size
Larger spaces require:
- More materials
- More labour
- More machinery
- Longer project timelines
As a result, costs increase with property size.
Site Accessibility
Landscapers may charge more when:
- Access is restricted
- Machinery cannot enter
- Manual excavation is required
Tight urban blocks often cost more to landscape.
Soil Conditions
Poor soil may require:
- Excavation
- Imported soil
- Drainage solutions
These costs can add thousands to a project.
Material Selection
Premium materials naturally cost more.
For example:
- Concrete pavers are affordable.
- Natural stone is significantly more expensive.
The same applies to decking, retaining walls, and garden features.
Design Complexity
Simple layouts cost less.
However, custom designs with curves, levels, lighting, and unique features increase labour and planning costs.
Soft Landscaping Costs
Soft landscaping usually provides the greatest visual impact for the lowest investment.
Turf Installation
| Type | Cost Per m² |
| Natural Turf | $25 – $50 |
| Premium Turf | $40 – $70 |
Artificial Grass
| Type | Cost Per m² Installed |
| Standard Artificial Grass | $70 – $120 |
| Premium Artificial Grass | $120 – $180 |
Garden Beds
Garden bed installation generally ranges from:
$50 – $200 per m²
Depending on soil preparation and plant selection.
Mulching
Mulching typically costs:
$40 – $100 per cubic metre installed
Hard Landscaping Costs
Hard landscaping often represents the largest portion of project costs.
Paving
| Material | Cost Per m² Installed |
| Concrete Pavers | $70 – $120 |
| Brick Pavers | $80 – $150 |
| Natural Stone | $120 – $300+ |
Decking
Timber Decking
$250 – $550 per m²
Composite Decking
$350 – $700 per m²
Although composite decking costs more initially, it requires less maintenance.
Retaining Walls
| Type | Cost Per m² |
| Timber Retaining Wall | $250 – $450 |
| Concrete Sleeper Wall | $400 – $800 |
| Natural Stone Wall | $600 – $1,500+ |
Front Yard Landscaping Costs
The front yard creates the first impression of your home.
A professionally landscaped front yard typically costs:
| Project Scope | Estimated Cost |
| Basic Upgrade | $3,000 – $8,000 |
| Mid-Range Design | $8,000 – $20,000 |
| Premium Front Yard | $20,000 – $60,000+ |
Common features include:
- Garden beds
- Pathways
- Artificial grass
- Feature plants
- Lighting
Backyard Landscaping Costs
Backyards often involve larger budgets because they include entertainment areas.
Average costs:
| Backyard Size | Estimated Cost |
| Small | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Medium | $25,000 – $60,000 |
| Large | $60,000 – $150,000+ |
Popular additions include:
- Decks
- Pergolas
- Outdoor kitchens
- Artificial lawns
- Fire pits
New Home Landscaping Costs
Many Melbourne homeowners underestimate landscaping costs when building a new home.
A common mistake is allocating most of the budget to the house itself.
For new builds, landscaping often costs:
Basic Package
$10,000 – $20,000
Standard Package
$20,000 – $50,000
Premium Package
$50,000 – $150,000+
A useful guideline is to allocate approximately 5%–15% of your property’s value to landscaping.
Cost of Popular Landscaping Features
Pergola
$5,000 – $30,000+
Outdoor Kitchen
$8,000 – $50,000+
Fire Pit Area
$2,000 – $10,000
Garden Lighting
$1,500 – $10,000+
Water Feature
$2,000 – $20,000+
Irrigation System
$1,500 – $8,000+
Hidden Landscaping Costs Homeowners Often Miss
Many landscaping budgets exceed expectations because of overlooked expenses.
Council Permits
Some projects may require approvals.
Examples include:
- Large retaining walls
- Drainage modifications
- Structural outdoor features
Site Preparation
Preparation often includes:
- Excavation
- Demolition
- Waste removal
These costs can quickly add up.
Drainage Solutions
Poor drainage can cause major issues later.
Investing in proper drainage during construction can save significant repair costs.
Electrical Work
Outdoor lighting and power outlets require licensed electricians.
This is often forgotten during budgeting.
Budget vs Mid-Range vs Premium Landscaping
Budget Landscaping ($5,000–$15,000)
Typically includes:
- Basic turf
- Mulch
- Garden beds
- Simple pathways
Mid-Range Landscaping ($15,000–$50,000)
Often includes:
- Decking
- Paving
- Irrigation
- Feature planting
Premium Landscaping ($50,000–$150,000+)
May include:
- Outdoor kitchens
- Luxury lighting
- Custom stonework
- Water features
- Architectural landscape design
How to Save Money on Landscaping
Landscaping doesn’t always require a huge budget.
Consider these strategies.
Prioritize Essential Features
Start with:
- Drainage
- Turf
- Garden beds
Add luxury features later.
Choose Low-Maintenance Plants
Native Australian plants often require less water and maintenance.
Landscape in Stages
Many homeowners complete projects over several years.
This approach spreads costs while still improving the property.
Compare Multiple Quotes
Always obtain at least three quotes.
This helps ensure fair pricing and better value.
Does Landscaping Increase Property Value?
In many cases, yes.
Well-designed landscaping can:
- Improve street appeal
- Increase buyer interest
- Create a functional outdoor living space
- Help properties sell faster
Many real estate professionals estimate quality landscaping can add between 5% and 15% to property value, depending on the market and project quality.
Example Landscaping Budgets
Example 1: Small Melbourne Front Yard
- Artificial grass: $3,500
- Garden beds: $1,500
- Plants: $1,000
- Pathway: $2,000
Total: Approximately $8,000
Example 2: Family Backyard Upgrade
- Composite deck: $12,000
- Artificial grass: $8,000
- Lighting: $3,000
- Planting: $4,000
Total: Approximately $27,000
Example 3: Luxury Outdoor Entertaining Area
- Pergola: $20,000
- Outdoor kitchen: $25,000
- Premium paving: $15,000
- Lighting: $5,000
- Landscaping: $15,000
Total: Approximately $80,000
Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Landscaper
Before signing a contract, ask:
- Are you licensed and insured?
- What is included in the quote?
- How long will the project take?
- Do you provide design services?
- What warranties are included?
- Are permits required?
- What maintenance will be needed?
These questions can prevent costly misunderstandings later.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does landscaping cost in Melbourne?
Most landscaping projects range from $5,000 to $50,000, although larger premium projects can exceed $100,000.
What is the average landscaping cost per square metre?
Typically between $50 and $800+ per square metre depending on complexity and materials.
Is landscaping worth the investment?
Yes. Good landscaping improves functionality, enhances appearance, and can increase property value.
What is the most expensive part of landscaping?
Hard landscaping features such as retaining walls, decking, paving, and outdoor kitchens often represent the largest costs.
Can I landscape my backyard in stages?
Absolutely. Many homeowners complete landscaping in stages to manage cash flow.
How much should I budget for landscaping a new home?
A common recommendation is 5%–15% of your property’s total value.
Final Thoughts
Understanding Landscaping Cost in Melbourne is essential before starting any outdoor project. While costs vary widely based on size, materials, design complexity, and site conditions, careful planning can help you achieve excellent results within your budget.
Whether you’re creating a simple garden refresh, installing artificial grass, building a new deck, or designing a luxury outdoor entertaining area, the key is to focus on long-term value rather than simply choosing the cheapest option.
By investing in quality materials, experienced professionals, and thoughtful design, you can create an outdoor space that looks great, functions well, and adds lasting value to your Melbourne property for years to come.