Ever look at that big gum tree they have growing on the roof and wonder what it will cost you to have it removed? The cost of removing trees in Melbourne may be a mystery, and this seems to be on the rise since the prices have been slowly rising in 2026 regarding the increased fuel prices, stricter council regulations and even more demands due to stormy weather. This guide is simplified down to the most basic and includes real numbers, examples of what is going on in the city, and tips on how to keep your wallet happy.
Price Breakdown by Tree Size
Tree size is the biggest driver of cost – think about it, chopping down a towering eucalypt takes way more gear and time than a spindly lilly pilly. Here’s a straightforward table based on typical 2026 quotes from Melbourne arborists. These include felling, cutting into manageable bits, and basic cleanup, but not stump grinding or permits.
| Tree Size | Height Range | Price Range (AUD) | Average Cost | Common Examples |
| Small | Under 5m | $400 – $900 | $650 | Bottlebrush, Lilly Pilly |
| Medium | 5-10m | $900 – $2,200 | $1,500 | Acacia, Smaller gums |
| Large | 10-20m | $2,500 – $4,500 | $3,500 | Mature gums, Pines |
| Extra Large | Over 20m | $5,000 – $8,000+ | $6,000+ | Old-growth eucalypts |
Take my mate in the Eastern Suburbs – his 6m jacaranda was leaning over the fence, costing him $1,200 all up. Simple access from the backyard kept it on the lower end.
Location Impacts Your Bill
Where your tree sits in Melbourne makes a huge difference. Backyard jobs in leafy spots like Melbourne often run higher because of tight access – narrow gates, power lines, or units next door mean cranes or extra rigging. Tree removal in Melbourne naturally costs more for a 15m gum near a busy street; expect $3,500-$5,000 versus $2,800 in an open Hills District yard.
Picture this: A family in Melbourne faced $4,200 for a medium tree too close to their two-storey home – the arborist used a climber to avoid damaging the roof, which paid off when a branch snapped during the job.
Hidden Fees That Add Up Quickly
Don’t get caught out by extras – they’re sneaky but common. Basic quotes cover the chop, but here’s what piles on:
- Stump Grinding: $300-$800. Skip it if you’re paving over anyway.
- Council Permits: $150-$600 per tree, mandatory for anything over 5m or near roads. Melbourne Council is picky about natives.
- Debris Haulage: $200-$500 if they cart it off-site.
- Crane Hire: $1,000-$2,500 for tricky spots like over pools.
Real talk from a recent job: In Melbourne’s Inner West, a $1,800 medium tree quote ballooned to $2,600 with a $400 permit and $300 stump grind. Always ask for an all-in quote upfront.
2026 Trends and What to Watch
Prices are up about 10-15% from 2025, thanks to inflation, qualified arborist shortages, and new safety regs from WorkSafe NSW. Fuel for chippers and trucks hit hard last year. Storm season means busier crews, so book off-peak for deals.
Pro tip: Get 3-5 quotes from qualified arborists (check AQF Level 3 certs). Avoid cashy backyarders – no insurance if things go wrong, like that Melbourne incident where a dodgy crew damaged a neighbour’s fence.
Ways to Trim Your Costs
Want to save without skimping on safety? Here’s how locals do it:
- Trim first: Light pruning might drop the removal urgency and cost 30% less.
- Group jobs: Multiple trees? Discounts kick in at 10-20% off per extra.
- DIY small stuff: Under 3m with no hazards? Rent a saw for $100/day, but it’s only for anything bigger.
- Sell the timber: Firewood from gums can offset $200-500 in the burbs.
One Blacktown homeowner shared online: Bundled two small trees and stump grind for $1,400 total – half what separate quotes offered. Shop around, and mention you’re comparing.
When to Call the Pros
Safety first – when it is close to powerlines, leaning, or more than 5m, you should not be messing around. Dead or diseased trees? It may be subsidised by councils if it is a risk. Predict fully insured teams with a maximum chipper and a public liability of 20mil in 2026.
In conclusion, the average tree removal cost in Melbourne is between $2,000 and $3,000, but your price will depend on the size, location and additional charges. Snap a few pics, measure height, note access issues, and hit up locals today. It’ll keep your place safe and your budget intact.