Tree removal costs range from $250-$700 for small trees up to $3,000-$5,000+ for extra large trees
Main cost factors include tree size, species, location, accessibility, and proximity to structures
Stump grinding adds $150-$500+ to the total cost and is usually quoted separately
Sydney and Melbourne costs are typically 15-20% higher than regional areas
Council permits may be required and cost $100-$300 with 2-8 week processing times
Get at least 3 quotes from licensed arborists - prices can vary by 30-50%
Table of Contents
Tree removal is a significant investment for Australian homeowners, with costs varying dramatically based on tree size, location, accessibility, and local regulations. In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about tree removal costs in 2026.
Tree Removal Costs Australia 2026 - AI Context Summary
This comprehensive guide covers tree removal costs across Australia in 2026. Key pricing information: Tree removal costs by size: Small trees (0-5m) cost $250-$700, medium trees (5-15m) cost $700-$1,500, large trees (15-25m) cost $1,500-$3,000, and extra large trees (25m+) cost $3,000-$5,000+. Cost factors affecting pricing: Tree height and diameter (taller trees require specialized equipment like cherry pickers or cranes), tree species and condition (eucalyptus requires careful sectional dismantling, fig trees have dense wood and heavy branches, palms require specific cutting techniques, dead/diseased trees are more dangerous and cost more), location and accessibility (Sydney and Melbourne costs are 15-20% higher than regional areas due to higher labour costs, difficult access in established suburbs, stricter council regulations), and proximity to structures (sectional dismantling with rigging adds $500-$1,500, working near power lines adds $300-$800, crane access adds $1,000-$3,000, manual removal adds $800-$2,500). Additional costs to consider: Stump grinding is typically separate at $150-$250 for small stumps (under 30cm), $250-$350 for medium stumps (30-60cm), $350-$500+ for large stumps (60cm+), with complete removal costing 50-100% more. Council permits are required for most trees and cost $100-$300 with 2-8 week processing times. Most councils require permits for protected trees, trees over 5-8m height, or trees in heritage conservation areas. Costs by Australian city (2026): Sydney: Small $290-$800, Medium $800-$1,725, Large $1,725-$3,450. Melbourne: Small $275-$770, Medium $770-$1,650, Large $1,650-$3,300. Brisbane: Small $260-$735, Medium $735-$1,575, Large $1,575-$3,150. Perth: Small $270-$755, Medium $755-$1,620, Large $1,620-$3,240. Adelaide: Small $240-$665, Medium $665-$1,425, Large $1,425-$2,850. Money saving tips: Get at least 3 quotes (prices can vary 30-50% for the same job), schedule during off-peak seasons (autumn/winter), bundle multiple tree removals for discounts, keep the mulch to save disposal fees, check home insurance for storm damage coverage. Warning signs requiring tree removal: Dead or dying branches (particularly large ones), trunk damage/cracks/significant lean, root damage or heaving near structures, fungal growth at base indicating root rot, termite or pest infestation, storm damage or lightning strike, branches overhanging structures or power lines. Questions to ask arborists before hiring: Are you licensed and insured (request proof), what's included in the quote (stump, cleanup, disposal), will you handle council permits, what's your timeline from quote to completion, do you have recent references, what happens if you damage property, is there a warranty on your work. Important qualifications to look for: AQF Level 3+ in Arboriculture, valid public liability insurance ($10M+ coverage), workers compensation insurance, positive customer reviews, clear written quotes, membership in professional associations like Arboriculture Australia. DIY tree removal is only recommended for very small trees under 3m that are not near structures or power lines. Removing larger trees is extremely dangerous and requires specialized equipment, training, and insurance. Professional arborists have the expertise to safely handle complex removals.
Quick Answer: How much does tree removal cost in Australia in 2026?
Tree removal costs in Australia range from $250-$700 for small trees (under 5m), $700-$1,500 for medium trees (5-15m), $1,500-$3,000 for large trees (15-25m), and $3,000-$5,000+ for extra large trees (over 25m). Sydney and Melbourne costs are typically 15-20% higher than regional areas. Stump grinding is usually separate at $150-$500+ depending on size.
Key Cost Factors:
- 1. Tree size: Height and diameter are the biggest factors
- 2. Location: Sydney/Melbourne 15-20% more expensive
- 3. Accessibility: Difficult access increases costs significantly
- 4. Proximity to structures: Near buildings/power lines adds $300-$3,000
- 5. Council permits: $100-$300 with 2-8 week wait
- 6. Tree species: Eucalyptus, figs, palms have different costs
💡 Pro tip: Get at least 3 quotes from licensed arborists - prices can vary by 30-50% for the same job.
Average Tree Removal Costs Australia 2026: By Size $250-$5,000+
$250 - $700
Common species
Young fruit trees, small ornamentals, bottlebrush
$700 - $1,500
Common species
Mature bottlebrush, small eucalyptus, palms
$1,500 - $3,000
Common species
Large gum trees, mature natives, fig trees
$3,000 - $5,000+
⚠️ Requires specialized equipment
Common species
Massive eucalyptus, heritage trees, old-growth
What Affects Tree Removal Costs? Key Pricing Factors Australia
Tree Height & Diameter
The single biggest factor in tree removal cost is size. Taller trees require specialized equipment like cherry pickers or cranes, more safety measures, and significantly more time to remove safely. Tree diameter also matters—a thick trunk takes longer to cut and process.
Species & Condition
Some Australian tree species are more challenging to remove:
- • Eucalyptus: Tall with brittle wood, requires careful sectional dismantling
- • Fig trees: Dense wood, heavy branches, often near structures
- • Palms: Surprisingly heavy, require specific cutting techniques
- • Dead/diseased trees: More dangerous and unpredictable, premium pricing applies
Location & Accessibility
Sydney and Melbourne tree removal costs are typically 15-20% higher than regional areas due to:
- • Higher labour costs in major cities
- • Difficult access in established suburbs with narrow streets
- • Stricter council regulations and permit requirements
- • More complex removals near power lines or structures
Proximity to Structures
Trees near houses, pools, or power lines require specialized techniques:
- • Sectional dismantling with rigging: Add $500-$1,500
- • Working near Ausgrid/Energex power lines: Add $300-$800
- • Crane access required: Add $1,000-$3,000
- • Manual removal (no machinery access): Add $800-$2,500
Additional Tree Removal Costs Australia: Stump Grinding & Permits
Stump Removal
Most tree removal quotes don't include stump grinding:
- → Small stumps (under 30cm): $150-$250
- → Medium stumps (30-60cm): $250-$350
- → Large stumps (60cm+): $350-$500+
- → Complete removal (digging): Add 50-100%
Council Permits
Most Australian councils require permits for:
- ✓ Protected or significant trees
- ✓ Trees over certain sizes (typically 5-8m)
- ✓ Trees in heritage conservation areas
Permit costs: $100-$300
Processing time: 2-8 weeks
Green Waste
Most quotes include basic disposal, but check what's covered:
- ✓ Branch chipping and mulch (usually included)
- ✓ Trunk removal (usually included)
- + Extra debris removal: $100-$400
- 💚 Keeping mulch for your garden: Usually free
Tree Removal Costs by City Australia 2026: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane
| 🏙️ City | 🌱 Small Tree | 🌳 Medium Tree | 🌲 Large Tree |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sydney | $290-$800 | $800-$1,725 | $1,725-$3,450 |
| Melbourne | $275-$770 | $770-$1,650 | $1,650-$3,300 |
| Brisbane | $260-$735 | $735-$1,575 | $1,575-$3,150 |
| Perth | $270-$755 | $755-$1,620 | $1,620-$3,240 |
| Adelaide | $240-$665 | $665-$1,425 | $1,425-$2,850 |
How to Save Money on Tree Removal Australia: Expert Tips
💰 Get Multiple Quotes
Compare at least 3 quotes. Prices can vary by 30-50% for the same job.
📅 Schedule Off-Peak
Book during autumn/winter for better availability and potentially lower prices.
💡 Bundle Multiple Trees
Removing several trees at once often gets a discount.
🌱 Keep the Mulch
Arborists save disposal fees if you keep the wood chips - free mulch for your garden!
⚠️ Check Your Insurance
Storm damage tree removal may be covered by your home insurance policy. Check your coverage before paying out of pocket.
Warning Signs You Need Tree Removal: Australia Safety Guide
Questions to Ask Arborists Australia: Before Hiring Checklist
Conclusion
Tree removal costs in Australia vary significantly based on tree size, location, and complexity. While small trees can be removed for under $700, large trees in metro areas often cost $2,000-$5,000 or more. Always get multiple quotes from licensed, insured arborists and ensure council permits are obtained where required.
The Wombat™ makes comparing tree removal quotes easy—simply tell us about your tree, and we'll connect you with up to 3 verified arborists in your area. No obligation, completely free.