Tree removal costs in Melbourne range from $500 for a small tree to $10,000 or more for a large one. The price depends on the size of the tree, where it is on your property, and how much work is involved. This guide breaks down realistic price ranges so you know what to expect before you call for quotes.
Tree Removal Price Ranges in Melbourne
Every tree is different, but here are the typical ranges Melbourne arborists charge in 2026.
Small Trees ($500 — $1,500)
Small trees are generally under 5 metres tall. These include ornamental trees, young natives, small fruit trees, and saplings that have outgrown their spot.
Removal is usually straightforward. The tree can often be felled in one piece with minimal equipment. Most small tree removals take a few hours.
Medium Trees ($1,500 — $4,000)
Medium trees are between 5 and 15 metres tall. This covers a large portion of residential trees in Melbourne — established eucalyptus, mature fruit trees, medium-sized gums, and larger ornamentals.
These trees usually need to be dismantled in sections, especially if they are close to fences, power lines, or buildings. The crew may need a cherry picker or elevated work platform. The job typically takes half a day to a full day.
Large Trees ($4,000 — $10,000+)
Large trees are over 15 metres tall. Think mature eucalyptus, large pines, established oaks, or big Moreton Bay figs.
Large tree removal is complex work. It often requires crane assistance, traffic management (if near a road), specialised rigging, and a larger crew. These jobs can take one to two days, sometimes longer.
Trees over 20 metres, or those in extremely difficult locations, can push costs beyond $10,000. If the tree is near power lines, the electricity distributor may need to be involved, which adds time and cost.
What Affects the Price?
The price is not just about the tree’s height. Several factors push the cost up or down.
Tree Size and Species
Taller, wider trees cost more. Dense hardwood species like eucalyptus are heavier and harder to work with than softer species. Palm removal is often cheaper than hardwood removal because the timber is lighter.
Access to the Tree
If the tree is in an open front yard with clear truck access, the job is easier and cheaper. If the tree is in a tight backyard behind the house, the crew needs to carry every piece of timber out by hand. Limited access adds time and labour cost.
Proximity to Structures
Trees close to houses, sheds, fences, pools, or power lines require more careful dismantling. The arborist may need to lower branches on ropes rather than dropping them. This precision work takes longer and costs more.
Stump Grinding
Most tree removal quotes do not include stump grinding by default. Stump grinding is a separate service that typically costs between $150 and $500, depending on the stump’s size and root system. Ask your arborist whether it is included in the quote or quoted separately.
Green Waste Disposal
Some arborists include green waste removal in their price. Others charge extra or leave the timber and branches for you to deal with. Always clarify what happens to the waste before you agree to a quote.
Council Permits
If your tree needs a council permit before removal, there will be an application fee (usually $100 to $500). The arborist may also charge for an arborist report if the council requires one. This is separate from the removal cost.
Why Cheap Quotes Can Be Risky
Getting multiple quotes is smart. But if one quote is significantly lower than the others, be careful.
Low-cost operators may:
- Lack proper insurance — If a worker is injured on your property or damage occurs, you could be liable.
- Skip safety procedures — Cutting corners with rigging, PPE, or traffic management puts people at risk.
- Not hold the right qualifications — A qualified arborist (minimum AQF Level 3 in Arboriculture) understands tree biology, risk assessment, and safe work practices. An unqualified operator may not.
- Leave a mess — Cheap quotes sometimes exclude green waste removal, stump grinding, or site cleanup. You end up paying someone else to finish the job.
- Not carry public liability insurance — Ask for a Certificate of Currency. Any professional arborist will have at least $10 million in public liability cover.
A professional tree removal company carries insurance, employs qualified arborists, and follows safe work method statements. That costs money, and it is reflected in the quote.
What Should a Professional Quote Include?
When you get a quote from Precision Arbor Care or any reputable Melbourne arborist, it should clearly state:
- Scope of work — Exactly which tree or trees are being removed
- Method — How the tree will be removed (felled, dismantled in sections, crane-assisted)
- Stump grinding — Whether it is included or an additional cost
- Green waste — Whether all timber, branches, and leaves will be removed from site
- Timeline — When the work will be done
- Insurance — Confirmation of public liability and workers compensation cover
- Permit requirements — Whether a council permit is needed and who will handle it
If a quote does not cover these points, ask. A professional arborist will be happy to clarify.
How to Save Money on Tree Removal
There are a few legitimate ways to reduce your tree removal cost:
- Get 2-3 quotes — Compare like-for-like. Make sure each quote covers the same scope.
- Bundle multiple trees — If you have several trees to remove, the per-tree cost is often lower when done together.
- Keep the wood — If you have a fireplace, ask the arborist to leave the firewood-grade timber. This may reduce disposal costs.
- Be flexible on timing — Some arborists offer better rates during quieter periods, typically winter.
- Skip the stump — If the stump is not in the way, you can leave it and save a few hundred dollars. Just know that some stumps attract termites over time.
Get a Quote for Your Tree
Call Rob at Precision Arbor Care on 0413 606 544 for a free, no-obligation quote. We assess the tree on-site, explain exactly what is involved, and give you a clear price with no hidden costs. We service all Greater Melbourne suburbs.
