Tree Removal Costs in Melbourne

One of the most common questions we get at Melbourne Tree Company is: “How much will it cost to remove my tree?”

The honest answer is that every tree is unique. While a small tree in a front yard might cost as little as $300, a massive gum tree overhanging a house in the Mornington Peninsula could range upwards of $5,000.

Because we value transparency, we have put together this guide to help you budget for your project and understand exactly what you are paying for.

Quick Note: The prices below are industry averages for Melbourne. For an accurate price, we always provide a free, no-obligation on-site quote.

Average Tree Removal Prices

Based on current industry standards in Victoria, here is what you can expect to pay for standard tree removal.

*Prices vary based on complexity, access, and waste removal requirements.

The 4 Main Factors That Affect Your Quote

Why does one tree cost $500 and another $2,000? It comes down to four main variables:

1. Size and Species

Naturally, larger trees require more manpower, heavy machinery (like cranes), and time. However, species also matters.

• Hardwoods (e.g., Gums): Heavier wood that is harder to cut and chip.

• Palm Trees: Often require specific disposal methods due to their fibrous nature.

• Thorny/Complex Trees: Trees that are unsafe to climb require EWP (Elevated Work Platform) access, increasing the cost.

2. Location and Access (The Big One)

This is the biggest variable.

• Good Access: A tree in a front yard with driveway access for our chipper and trucks is the most affordable scenario.

• Poor Access: If a tree is in a backyard and we have to drag branches through a narrow side gate, up stairs, or through a house, the labour time increases significantly.

3. Safety Hazards and Proximity

If your tree is overhanging your roof, a glass conservatory, pool, or power lines, we cannot simply “fell” it. It must be dismantled piece by piece (lopped) and lowered carefully using ropes and rigging. This technical work requires our most senior arborists and takes longer.

4. Stump Grinding

Standard tree removal quotes usually cover cutting the tree down to a low stump. Stump grinding is an additional service. If you want the stump removed completely so you can replant or pave over the area, let us know so we can include it in your quote.

Hidden Costs to Watch Out For

When comparing quotes, make sure you are comparing apples with apples. Some “cheap” quotes cut corners. At Melbourne Tree Company, our quotes are comprehensive.

• Green Waste Removal: Does the quote include taking the wood and branches away? (We always recycle our green waste).

• Council Permits: Most councils (Frankston, Kingston, Casey, Bayside, etc.) charge an application fee to remove significant trees. This is usually paid by the homeowner, though we can assist with the arborist report required for the application.

Why “Cheap” Tree Removal is Risky

You might find a “guy with a chainsaw” on a community Facebook page offering to do it for cash. Before you say yes, ask yourself:

1. Do they have Insurance? We carry $10 Million in Public Liability Insurance. If a branch falls on your neighbour’s roof or car, you are covered. If an uninsured worker damages your property, you are liable.

2. Are they Qualified? Our team are qualified arborists who understand how trees fall. Incorrect cutting techniques can cause trees to twist and fall in unpredictable directions.

3. Do they have the right gear? We use commercial chippers and trucks. We don’t leave a mess of branches on your nature strip for you to deal with.

Ready for an exact price?

Don’t guess. Get a firm, fixed price from a qualified local team.

Servicing Melbourne, the South East, and the Mornington Peninsula.