Landscape Design & Construction Costs in Perth

Planning a new outdoor space involves more than choosing plants and paving. In Perth, the total cost of landscaping depends on the size and condition of the site, the design, material choices, access, and the amount of construction required. A straightforward garden refresh may cost a few thousand dollars, while a complete Landscape Design & Construction project with excavation, retaining, paving, structures and planting can require a substantial investment.

The figures in this guide are indicative 2026 planning ranges in Australian dollars, not fixed quotes. Perth contractors price work according to site conditions, project scope and finish level, so use these amounts to compare options and prepare a realistic budget. Ask for a detailed, written proposal before work begins.

Typical landscaping costs in Perth

For a small garden makeover with limited demolition, new plants and basic improvements, allow approximately $5,000 to $15,000. A more comprehensive suburban garden with paving, lawn, garden beds and some screening may fall between $15,000 and $50,000. Large or highly customised projects can exceed $50,000, particularly when they include significant earthworks, structural retaining, a pool area, custom-built features or extensive hardscaping.

These broad totals depend on what is included. Design fees, demolition, rubbish removal, irrigation, lighting, drainage and planting may be priced separately or incorporated into a complete https://felixhgvw852.rivertonbrief.com/posts/paving-your-backyard-design-ideas-and-inspiration construction quote. Check the inclusions carefully: two proposals with similar totals can cover very different scopes.

Landscape design fees

Landscape design gives the project a coordinated plan before construction starts. A designer may assess the site, discuss how you want to use it, prepare a concept plan and specify materials, plants, levels and features. More detailed services can include construction drawings, planting plans, drainage information, lighting layouts and assistance with contractor selection.

Indicative Perth fees range from around $500 to $2,000 for a basic consultation or concept plan, and approximately $2,000 to $8,000 or more for detailed plans for a typical residential garden. Complex sites and extensive design documentation can cost more. Confirm whether the fee covers revisions, site visits, council or approval support, and construction-stage advice.

Design can help control construction costs by identifying level changes, drainage requirements and material quantities early. It also makes it easier to obtain comparable quotes, because contractors can price the same scope rather than estimating from a brief conversation.

What drives the total cost?

Site access and existing conditions: Narrow side access, steep slopes, difficult soil, buried services, tree roots and limited machinery access can increase labour and excavation costs. Removing old concrete, structures or unsuitable fill also adds to the budget.

Levels, drainage and retaining: A sloping block may need Landscape Excavation, drainage improvements and Retaining Walls before paving or planting can be installed. The height, length, engineering requirements and material of a retaining wall all affect its price. Structural work may require engineering advice and approvals.

Materials and finish: Natural stone, large-format pavers, hardwood and custom metalwork generally cost more than simpler standard options. Material availability, delivery distance, preparation requirements and the complexity of installation also matter.

Project size and coordination: Larger areas require more materials and labour, but costs do not always rise in a straight line. Multiple trades, staged construction and specialised features can add coordination time. A clear sequence helps avoid rework—for example, completing underground services and drainage before installing paving.

Indicative costs for common landscaping work

The following ranges are broad budgeting guides for Perth in 2026. Final prices depend on specifications, access and site preparation. Some contractors quote per square metre; others price the complete job, especially where detailed preparation or complex edges are involved.

Paving: Approximately $90 to $250 per square metre installed for many residential applications. Premium materials, intricate patterns, extensive cutting or difficult base preparation can push the cost higher.
Concreting: Around $80 to $180 per square metre for common residential finishes. Decorative finishes, reinforced slabs, complex shapes and additional drainage work may cost more.
Artificial Lawn: Often about $90 to $180 per square metre supplied and installed. The quote should specify the base, edging, joining method, infill and removal of existing lawn or soil.
Retaining Walls: A broad guide is $300 to $900 or more per square metre of wall face, depending on height, material, access, drainage and engineering needs. Always compare the specified wall system and inclusions.
Decking Installation: Approximately $350 to $800 or more per square metre, depending on timber or composite boards, substructure, height, balustrades and site conditions.
Pergolas Installation: A basic structure may start around $5,000, while larger or custom pergolas can exceed $20,000. Roofing, electrical work, footings, engineering and finishes affect the final figure.
Landscape Excavation: Costs vary widely with volume, soil type, machinery access and disposal requirements. Ask whether excavation, spoil removal, tip fees and final site preparation are included.

These figures are not directly interchangeable. For example, a paving rate may include bedding and installation but exclude excavation, drainage and demolition. Request a written breakdown of preparation, materials, labour and disposal.

Pool landscaping and outdoor living features

Pool Landscaping requires careful planning around safety, drainage, access and the pool manufacturer’s specifications. Costs can include paving or pool coping, privacy planting, screening, lawn, lighting, fencing interfaces and outdoor living areas. Existing pool access and the space available for machinery can strongly influence installation costs.

Before construction, confirm which parts of the work are included in the pool contract and which are the landscaper’s responsibility. Coordinate levels and drainage so surface water does not flow into the pool or adjacent areas. Pool barriers and gates must comply with applicable Western Australian requirements; confirm the current rules and inspection process with the relevant local government or building professional before altering a barrier or its surroundings.

Features such as a deck, shade structure or outdoor kitchen can improve usability but should be costed as part of the whole design. For example, Pergolas Installation may require footings and approvals, while electrical or gas services need appropriately licensed trades.

Perth conditions, water use and approvals

Perth’s hot, dry summers and seasonal rainfall make plant selection and water planning important. Waterwise planting, soil improvement, mulch, efficient irrigation and suitable shade can help reduce ongoing water demand. Check current Water Corporation guidance and any applicable watering restrictions when planning irrigation. A landscape that suits local conditions can be easier to maintain than one designed around plants that need frequent supplementary watering.

Approval requirements vary by project and local government area. Retaining walls, pergolas, fences, significant earthworks and work near boundaries may trigger planning, building, engineering or other requirements depending on height, location, property constraints and applicable exemptions. Do not assume that a structure is exempt based on size alone. Check with your local council and, where relevant, a registered building surveyor or engineer before construction.

Underground utility services should also be identified before excavation. Arrange appropriate service locating and confirm the position of irrigation, power, gas and drainage lines before machinery or post holes are used.

How to prepare a realistic landscaping budget

Start by deciding which outcomes matter most: entertaining space, low-maintenance planting, a safe play area, improved privacy or a more usable pool zone. Set a total budget that includes design, construction and a contingency for unknown site conditions. An allowance of around 10% to 15% can be useful for projects where demolition or excavation may reveal unexpected issues, though complex sites may need a larger reserve.

Separate essential work from optional upgrades. Drainage, stable retaining and correct paving preparation are difficult to add later and should be prioritised. Decorative lighting, premium finishes or additional planting may be easier to stage if the budget is tight. Ask the contractor which parts can be completed later without causing extra work or compromising the finished design.

For more accurate quotes, provide the same information to each contractor: plans or measurements, photographs, access details, a list of required features, preferred materials and any known drainage or level concerns. Ask each business to state what is excluded, how variations are approved, the expected sequence of work and the proposed payment schedule. Verify insurance, relevant licences and references appropriate to the work being undertaken.

Ways to manage costs without compromising quality

Keep the design focused and avoid adding features before the essential layout and drainage are resolved.
Use premium materials selectively, such as in high-visibility areas, and choose durable standard options elsewhere.
Retain healthy existing trees and suitable structures where they fit the design and do not create safety or maintenance concerns.
Choose plants suited to Perth’s climate and the site’s sun, wind and soil conditions to support long-term performance.
Compare itemised quotes and specifications rather than choosing solely on the lowest headline price.
Plan construction in a logical order so excavation, services and drainage are completed before finished surfaces and planting.

Getting value from a Perth landscape project

The best-value landscape is not necessarily the one with the lowest upfront price. Good planning, sound preparation and suitable materials can reduce maintenance and the risk of costly repairs. Whether your project involves Paving, Concreting, Artificial Lawn, Retaining Walls or a full outdoor transformation, establish the scope before construction and confirm approvals where needed.

For a reliable estimate, ask Perth landscapers to inspect the site and provide a detailed proposal based on your priorities. In 2026, costs still vary substantially from one property to another, but clear plans, comparable quotes and realistic allowances make it easier to invest in an outdoor space that works for your home and local conditions.

Perth Landscaping Pros

4/78 McCoy St, Myaree WA 6154

(08) 5122 6359