Landscaping in Brisbane in 2026 ranges from $50–$120 per hour for labour-only work to $5,000–$50,000+ for a full outdoor transformation. The most common landscaping projects — lawn laying, garden beds, retaining walls, and paving — typically cost $3,000–$15,000 all up for a standard suburban backyard.
Retaining walls over 1 metre high in Brisbane require a QBCC-licensed builder and potentially a development application (DA). Always check council requirements for walls near boundaries.
Brisbane Landscaping Prices (2026)
| Job Type | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Lawn installation — roll-on turf (per m²) | $15 – $25 per m² |
| Garden bed creation (per m²) | $40 – $80 per m² |
| Retaining wall — timber sleeper (per m²) | $200 – $350 per m² |
| Retaining wall — concrete block (per m²) | $250 – $450 per m² |
| Paving (per m²) | $60 – $120 per m² |
| Driveway resealing | $500 – $1,500 |
| Full backyard makeover (100m²) | $8,000 – $25,000 |
| Garden design (plan only) | $500 – $2,500 |
| Irrigation system installation | $1,500 – $5,000 |
Brisbane Climate Considerations
Brisbane's subtropical climate affects landscaping decisions significantly. Shade is important — pergolas, shade sails, and established trees reduce summer temperatures by 5–8°C. Choose turf varieties suited to Brisbane's climate: Kikuyu and Couch are durable and drought-tolerant; Sir Walter Buffalo is shade-tolerant and popular in suburban Brisbane yards.
Retaining Walls: What to Know
Height Rules
In Brisbane City Council, retaining walls under 1 metre high generally don't need council approval, but walls over 1 metre — or any wall near a property boundary — typically require a building permit and possibly engineering certification. Your landscaper should advise on this.
Timber vs. Block
Treated pine sleeper walls are cheaper and have a natural look but need replacement after 15–20 years. Concrete block (Besser, Allan Block) is more expensive but lasts 50+ years and handles high moisture loads better — important in Brisbane's wet season.
Turf: Which Variety for Brisbane?
| Turf Type | Best For | Approx. Cost (supply + lay) |
|---|---|---|
| Sir Walter Buffalo | Shade, family lawns | $18 – $25 per m² |
| Kikuyu | Sun, high traffic | $14 – $20 per m² |
| Couch (common/hybrid) | Full sun, sport | $12 – $18 per m² |
| Zoysia | Low maintenance | $20 – $28 per m² |
How to Get an Accurate Quote
- Measure your yard in m² — most landscapers price per m² for turf, paving, and garden beds.
- Take photos and describe the site conditions (slope, access, existing plants).
- Ask for a scope that specifies what's included — excavation, soil, plants, mulch, edging.
- Confirm whether council permits and engineering are needed for retaining walls.
- Get 3 quotes for projects over $3,000.
The best time to lay turf in Brisbane is April–September (cooler months) when establishment is faster and less watering is required. Autumn is peak season — book early.
Find a Verified Landscaper in Brisbane
Post your landscaping job on Taskova. Get quotes from verified landscapers in Brisbane. For jobs involving retaining walls or structural work, QBCC-licensed builders will quote. Payments are held in escrow until you approve each stage.