Tree removal in Australia costs $250-$15,000+ depending on tree size: Small trees under 10m cost $250-$800, Medium trees 10-15m cost $800-$1,800, Large trees 15-25m cost $1,800-$4,500, and Very large trees over 25m cost $4,500-$15,000+. Stump grinding adds $150-$800 extra. Council approval is often required for trees over 5m or with trunk diameter over 50cm. All arborists should have AQF Level 3 certification and $10M+ public liability insurance.

Last updated: January 2026 Verified by licensed arborists

Cost by size: Small trees (<10m) $250-$800, Medium (10-15m) $800-$1,800, Large (15-25m) $1,800-$4,500, Very large (>25m) $4,500-$15,000+.

Council approval: Often required for trees over 5m height or 50cm trunk diameter. Protected/heritage trees always need permits. Fines up to $100,000 for unapproved removal.

Stump grinding: Usually quoted separately. Small stumps $150-$250, Medium $250-$400, Large $400-$800+. Grinds 20-30cm below ground.

Qualifications required: Look for AQF Level 3 Arboriculture certification, current WorkSafe compliance, and $10M-$20M public liability insurance.

Timeline: Small trees 1-3 hours, Medium 3-6 hours, Large 1-2 days, Very large 2-5 days. Emergency removal available same-day.

What's included: Professional assessment, safe felling, branch/trunk removal, green waste disposal, site cleanup. Stump grinding and permits extra.

Tree Removal Cost Comparison Table

Quick reference for tree removal pricing by size in Australia

2026 Australian Tree Removal Prices

All prices include removal, disposal, and site cleanup

Tree Size	Height	Cost Range	Time Required	Equipment
Small Tree	Under 10m	$250-$800	1-3 hours	Chainsaw, basic rigging
Medium Tree	10-15m	$800-$1,800	3-6 hours	Rigging, chipper
Large Tree	15-25m	$1,800-$4,500	1-2 days	Crane may be needed
Very Large Tree	Over 25m	$4,500-$15,000+	2-5 days	Heavy crane, specialist

* Stump grinding adds $150-$800. Difficult access, powerlines, or emergency work increases costs 50-200%. Prices as of January 2026.

Full Service

What's Included in Tree Removal

Every quote includes professional service from assessment to cleanup

Professional arborist cutting top of tree during removal

Professional Assessment

Free on-site evaluation, safety analysis, removal method planning

Safe Tree Felling

Expert cutting techniques, rigging systems, sectional removal when needed

Branch & Trunk Removal

Complete tree breakdown, wood chipping, heavy lifting equipment

Stump Grinding (Optional)

Professional stump removal 20-30cm below ground level, extra $150-$800

Site Cleanup

Complete debris removal, sweeping, leaving yard clean and tidy

Green Waste Disposal

Environmentally responsible disposal at approved recycling facilities

Stump grinding, council permits, and log splitting typically quoted separately

Size Guide

How Tall is YOUR Tree?

Visual guide to estimate tree size and removal costs

Small Tree

< 10m tall

$250-$800

1-3 hours work

2-3 storey house

Single power pole

Basketball hoop height

Medium Tree

10-15m tall

$800-$1,800

3-6 hours work

4-5 storey building

Double-decker bus

Typical gum tree

Large Tree

15-25m tall

$1,800-$4,500

1-2 days work

6-8 storey building

Established eucalyptus

Large pine tree

Very Large

> 25m tall

$4,500-$15,000+

2-5 days work

10+ storey building

Mature forest tree

Requires crane

Pro Tip: How to Measure Your Tree

Stand at tree base, walk backwards until you can see the top
Hold your arm straight, make a fist with thumb up
Close one eye, align thumb tip with tree top, thumb base with tree base
Pace the distance from you to the tree - that's roughly the height!
Or ask an arborist for a free on-site assessment

Common Issues

Common Reasons for Tree Removal

Understanding when a tree needs to be removed for safety or property reasons

Dead or Dying Trees

Disease, pest infestation, or age causing tree death - major safety hazard requiring immediate professional assessment

Structural Damage Risk

Trees too close to houses, powerlines, or infrastructure posing significant property damage and safety risks

Storm Damage

Lightning strikes, wind damage, split trunks creating immediate danger requiring urgent emergency tree removal services

Construction & Renovation

Trees blocking building plans, extensions, pool installations, or landscaping projects requiring professional site clearance

Overgrown & Invasive

Roots damaging foundations, driveways, pipes; excessive shade; wrong species creating ongoing property maintenance issues

View Improvement

Blocking views, sunlight, or aesthetic improvements for property value enhancement and landscape optimization

Species Guide

Common Australian Trees & Removal Costs

Different species require different removal techniques and pricing

🌳

Eucalyptus / Gum Trees

$800-$8,000+

Australia's most common tree species, requiring specialized removal techniques due to their size and protected status.

Characteristics

Australia's most common tree
Can grow 20-50m+ tall
Heavy, dense wood
Deep root systems

Removal Challenges

Brittle branches - drop hazard
Often near powerlines
Large weight requires rigging
Many protected by councils

Cost factors: Height, proximity to structures, protected status. Medium gum: $1,500-$3,000. Large established: $4,000-$8,000+

🌴

Palm Trees

$300-$1,500

Popular in coastal areas, palm trees are generally more affordable to remove due to their simpler structure.

Tropical palm forest landscape Australia

Characteristics

Popular in coastal areas
Typically 5-20m tall
Single trunk, no branches
Cocos, Phoenix, Bangalow varieties

Removal Challenges

Heavy fronds fall hazard
Rat/possum habitat
Fibrous trunk hard to chip
Often in tight access areas

Cost factors: Height and number of fronds. Small palm: $300-$600. Tall Cocos: $800-$1,500. Usually faster/cheaper than eucalyptus.

🌲

Pine Trees

$500-$4,000+

Fast-growing softwood trees that require careful removal due to top-heavy structure and sappy wood.

Characteristics

Norfolk, Radiata, Slash varieties
Grow 10-30m+ tall
Straight trunk with dense foliage
Softwood, fast-growing

Removal Challenges

Dense foliage creates bulk
Sappy wood clogs equipment
Wide canopy clearance needed
Root ball difficult to remove

Cost factors: Height and density of branches. Medium pine: $1,000-$2,500. Large Norfolk: $2,500-$4,000+. Messy cleanup.

🍂

Oak & Deciduous Trees

$1,000-$6,000+

Heritage hardwood trees with complex structures that often require council permits and specialized removal techniques.

Beautiful oak tree rural scenery Australia

Characteristics

Oak, Elm, Plane, Liquidambar
Typically 10-25m mature
Wide spreading canopy
Very hard, dense wood

Removal Challenges

Complex branch structure
Heavy wood - slow cutting
Often heritage protected
Large root systems damage paving

Cost factors: Hardwood takes longer to cut. Medium oak: $1,800-$3,500. Mature heritage oak: $4,000-$6,000+. Often high-value trees requiring permits.

Not Sure What Tree You Have?

Our arborists can identify your tree species during the free on-site assessment and provide accurate pricing based on the specific characteristics and removal challenges.

Emergency Services

Emergency Tree Removal

Same-day or next-day service for dangerous trees

When is it a TRUE emergency?

Leaning Dangerously

Tree leaning heavily toward house, powerlines, or roads - imminent fall risk

Storm Damage

Split trunk, major branch damage, or lightning strike causing instability

Large Dead Branches

Heavy dead limbs overhanging house, pool, or frequented areas

Touching Powerlines

NEVER touch yourself - call power company + arborist immediately

Emergency Service Includes

Same-day or next-day response

Full safety assessment

After-hours availability (extra charge)

Insurance claim support

Fast-tracked council approval

Emergency Pricing

Small tree

$500-$1,200

Medium tree

$1,200-$2,800

Large tree

$2,800-$6,000+

Surcharges: +30-50% standard rates • After-hours: +50-100%

Safety Warning

NEVER Attempt DIY Tree Removal

Tree removal is one of the most dangerous DIY tasks - deaths and serious injuries occur every year

Fatal Risks

Falling trees, chainsaw accidents, electrocution from powerlines, falls from height

Financial Liability

Damage to property ($50,000+), neighbor's property, vehicles - NOT covered by insurance if DIY

Legal Consequences

Council fines ($10,000-$100,000), criminal charges if protected tree, liability for injuries

Why Professional Arborists are Essential:

AQF Level 3 certification + years of training
Specialized equipment: cranes, rigging, safety harnesses
$10M-$20M public liability insurance protects you

Understanding of tree physics, weight distribution
Powerline awareness and electrical safety training
Legal compliance with council regulations

Council Regulations

Do You Need Council Approval?

State-by-state guide to tree removal regulations

IMPORTANT: Check Before You Remove!

Removing protected trees without approval can result in fines of $10,000-$100,000+ and criminal charges. Always check with your local council first.

Our arborists can help you navigate council requirements and submit permit applications

Usually NO Permit Required

Dead/dying/dangerous trees (still report to council)
Trees under 5m height + 50cm trunk diameter
Trees within 3m of existing dwelling (varies by council)
Fruit trees, introduced species in some councils
Emergency dangerous tree removal (report within 48hrs)

Permit ALWAYS Required

Trees over 5m height OR 50cm trunk diameter
Heritage-listed trees (protected species)
Trees in Vegetation Protection Overlay (VPO) areas
Native/endangered species
Street trees (council-owned trees)

NSW

Trees >5m or trunk >50cm require DA. Heritage trees strictly protected. $11,000+ fines. 10 tree species specifically protected.

VIC

Significant tree overlays common. Trees >8m height typically need permit. VPO areas = strict controls. $60,000+ fines possible.

QLD

Native vegetation protected. Koala habitat trees = strict rules. Some councils allow small tree removal without permit. Check Vegetation Management Act.

WA

Local government approvals vary. Native trees protected. Tree Preservation Orders in some areas. $25,000+ fines. Check local laws.

SA

Regulated/significant trees >2m trunk circumference need approval. Native Vegetation Act applies. Character trees protected. $100,000+ fines.

Seasonal Guide

Best Time for Tree Removal

Seasonal factors affect pricing, scheduling, and safety

Spring (Sep-Nov)

BEST SEASON

Optimal weather conditions
Easy to identify dead branches
Good ground conditions
Book early (peak demand)

Price Impact

Standard rates

Summer (Dec-Feb)

BUSY PERIOD

Long daylight hours
Dry site conditions
Bushfire restrictions may apply
2-4 week wait times

Price Impact

+10-20%

Autumn (Mar-May)

GOOD VALUE

Trees entering dormancy
Lower demand, better availability
Competitive pricing
Some rainfall delays

Price Impact

-10% savings

Winter (Jun-Aug)

BEST PRICES

Lowest prices of the year
Best availability
Trees fully dormant
Weather delays possible

Price Impact

-15-25% savings

Quick Seasonal Reference

Season	Weather	Availability	Pricing	Best For
Spring	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐	Best conditions
Summer	⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐	⭐⭐	Emergencies
Autumn	⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐	Best value
Winter	⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	Budget projects

Pro Tip: Book Ahead for Best Rates

Winter (June-August) offers the best savings (15-25% off), while summer has the longest wait times. For non-urgent removals, booking in off-peak months can save you hundreds to thousands of dollars!

Post-Removal Services

What Happens After Tree Removal?

Complete your project with these post-removal options

Stump Grinding

$150-$800

Remove the stump completely to prevent regrowth, pests, and create usable space.

✓ Grinding 20-30cm below ground
✓ Complete stump removal
✓ Wood chip backfill

• Small: $150-$250
• Medium: $250-$400
• Large: $400-$800+

Why remove stumps? Prevent regrowth, eliminate pests, remove trip hazards.

Replanting Native Trees

$200-$2,000+

Replace with native Australian species for environmental benefits and council compliance.

✓ Site & soil assessment
✓ Species recommendation
✓ Planting & mulching

• Lilly Pilly: $150-$400
• Bottlebrush: $80-$200
• Grevillea: $100-$300

Council may require replanting: Native species often approved faster.

Mulch & Firewood

FREE - $200

Turn your removed tree into useful products for your property or heating.

Wood Chip Mulch:

✓ Often FREE from arborists
✓ Great for gardens

Firewood Logs:

• Cutting: $100-$200
• Season 6-12 months

Tip: Fresh chips should age 6-12 months before use around plants.

Site Restoration

$300-$2,000+

Complete the transformation with landscaping to restore or improve the area.

Lawn

$300-$800

Garden

$500-$1,500

Hardscape

$1,000+

Bundle services: Tree removal + landscaping = better pricing.

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What Our Customers Say about Tree Removal

Real tree removal reviews from verified Australian customers

5.0 out of 5

Based on 188 verified reviews

Michael T.

Sydney, NSW

Had a massive eucalyptus removed from backyard. Got 3 quotes, saved nearly $2,000 by comparing! The arborist was professional, finished in one day, cleaned up perfectly. Very impressed.

Large Tree Removal

Rachel P.

Melbourne, VIC

Needed emergency tree removal after storm damage. Quote received within hours, tree removed next day. Arborist was expert, very safe around powerlines. Great service when we needed it most!

Emergency Tree Removal

Andrew K.

Brisbane, QLD

Removed 3 palm trees and got stumps ground. All arborists were licensed and helpful with council permits. Chosen company did fantastic job, very tidy. Will definitely use again.

Palm Tree Removal & Stump Grinding

5.0/5 Average Rating 188 Customer Reviews Wombat™ Verified Tree Removal

Expert Resources

Tree Removal Guides

Everything you need to know about tree services in Australia

Tree Removal Cost Calculator

Calculate accurate tree removal costs based on size, location, and complexity. Get instant estimates.

Read Guide

Council Approval Guide

Learn when you need council permits, how to apply, and what trees are protected in your area.

Read Guide

How to Choose an Arborist

Tips for finding qualified, insured professionals for your tree work.

Read Guide

Dangerous Tree Warning Signs

Identify hazardous trees before they become dangerous. Learn the warning signs and when to act.

Read Guide

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions about this topic

How much does tree removal cost in Australia?

Tree removal costs vary by size and complexity: Small trees (<10m) $250-$800, Medium trees (10-15m) $800-$1,800, Large trees (15-25m) $1,800-$4,500, Very large trees (>25m) $4,500-$15,000+. Costs include professional assessment, safe felling, branch/trunk removal, and green waste disposal. Stump grinding adds $150-$500. Difficult access, proximity to structures, and emergency removals increase costs by 50-200%.

Do I need council approval to remove a tree?

Often yes, especially for large or significant trees. Requirements vary by council: trees over 5m height or trunk diameter 50cm+ usually need approval, heritage/protected trees always require permits, VPOs (Vegetation Protection Overlays) restrict removal, native/endangered species strictly protected. Some exemptions: dead/dying/dangerous trees (still report required), trees within 3m of house (varies), small trees under thresholds. Check your local council website or arborist can advise. Unapproved removal = $10,000-$100,000+ fines.

How long does tree removal take?

Timeline varies by tree size and complexity: Small trees (<10m) 1-3 hours, Medium trees (10-15m) 3-6 hours, Large trees (15-25m) 1-2 days, Very large trees (>25m) 2-5 days. Complex removals near powerlines/buildings take longer. Council approval adds 2-6 weeks. Most jobs scheduled within 1-2 weeks of quote acceptance. Emergency dangerous tree removal often same-day or next-day service.

Is stump grinding included in tree removal?

No, stump grinding is usually quoted separately as many customers leave stumps. Stump grinding costs: Small stumps (<30cm) $150-$250, Medium stumps (30-60cm) $250-$400, Large stumps (>60cm) $400-$800+. Stump removal involves grinding 20-30cm below ground, removing wood chips, backfilling hole. Some arborists include basic stump grinding in premium packages. Leaving stumps can cause: regrowth, pest attraction, trip hazards, obstruct landscaping.

Are all arborists licensed and insured?

Yes, all arborists in our network have: AQF Level 3 Arboriculture certification, current WorkSafe compliance, $10M-$20M public liability insurance, proper equipment (cranes, chippers, safety gear), trained chainsaw operators. We verify all credentials before approval. Always verify yourself - ask for license and insurance certificates. Unlicensed tree work = unsafe, illegal, no insurance coverage if damage occurs.

What happens to the tree after removal?

Standard disposal included in quote: branches/trunk chipped into mulch, green waste taken to recycling facility, site cleaned and debris removed, wood chips offered to customer (sometimes), large logs available for firewood (may cost extra). Premium services: timber milling for quality wood, mulch delivery for garden use, complete site restoration. Ensure disposal is included in written quote to avoid surprise fees.

Can I remove a dangerous tree immediately?

Yes! Dangerous trees qualify for emergency removal: leaning heavily toward structures, large dead branches overhanging, storm-damaged and unstable, root damage/disease compromising stability, blocking roads/powerlines. Most arborists offer same-day or next-day emergency service (surcharge applies). Council approval still required for protected trees even if dangerous - but fast-tracked. Document danger with photos. If touching powerlines, call power company immediately (never DIY).

What's included in a tree removal quote?

Standard inclusions: professional arborist assessment, safe tree felling techniques (rigging, sectional removal), branch and trunk removal, green waste disposal, site cleanup and debris removal, public liability insurance coverage. NOT usually included: stump grinding ($150-$800 extra), council permit applications, fence/access removal, log splitting for firewood, mulch delivery. Always get itemized written quote and clarify what's included before accepting. If you're planning broader property improvements, also get quotes for home renovations or fencing.

How quickly can I get quotes?

Most customers receive their first quote within 4-8 hours. You'll typically have up to 3 quotes from licensed arborists within 24-48 hours. All arborists provide free on-site assessments to give accurate quotes. Quotes remain valid 30 days typically. Emergency removals often quoted same-day with photos/video.

Is the quote service really free?

Yes, absolutely! Our service is 100% free for homeowners. We earn a small commission from arborists when you hire them, but this doesn't affect your quote price. You save time and money by comparing licensed professionals safely. On-site assessments from arborists are also free with no obligation to accept.

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Tree Removal Services Australia - Complete Guide

The Wombat™ connects Australian homeowners with qualified AQF Level 3 certified arborists for professional tree removal services. Service includes complete tree assessment, council permit assistance, safe removal using specialized equipment, stump grinding, and site cleanup. All contractors carry required insurance and follow Australian safety standards.

Tree removal services are available across all Australian states and territories including New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia, Tasmania, Northern Territory, and Australian Capital Territory. Council regulations and protected tree species vary by local government area.

Key facts for Australian tree removal: Professional arborists require AQF Level 3 certification, council permits needed for protected trees and trees over height thresholds, removal costs $250-$15,000+ depending on size and access, stump grinding typically costs $150-$800 additional, emergency services available 24/7 at premium rates, native species replanting often required by councils, all work must comply with AS 4373-2007 Australian Standards.

Last updated: February 2026

Verified by qualified arborists and tree surgeons

Australia-wide coverage

Prices are estimates based on market research and may vary by location, project size, site conditions, and specialist. Always get multiple quotes for accurate pricing. Tree removal may require council permits and compliance with local tree preservation orders.