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🌿 Checklist 7 min read

Outdoor & Landscaping Project Checklist for Australian Homeowners

Whether planning a new deck, garden transformation, or outdoor entertaining area, this checklist guides you through planning, approvals, trades, and finishing touches.

Define Your Vision

Start with a clear vision before spending a dollar. Are you creating an entertaining space? A low-maintenance garden? Write it down.

Set Your Budget Realistically

A basic garden clean-up starts from $2,000. A full outdoor transformation can exceed $50,000.

Pro tip: Split your outdoor project into stages. Hardscaping first, then planting.

Council Approvals

  • 1 Decks over 1m high or 10m² typically need council approval
  • 2 Pools require mandatory approval in all Australian states
  • 3 Check your local council's planning portal before committing

Trade Sequence

  • 1 Site survey
  • 2 Stormwater and drainage plan
  • 3 Earthworks and excavation
  • 4 Concrete, retaining walls, paths
  • 5 Decking and structures
  • 6 Irrigation before planting
  • 7 Planting, turf, and garden beds
  • 8 Lighting (licensed electrician required)

Ready to get started?

Connect with verified local tradies who can help bring your project to life.