How much does turf installation cost in Melbourne? (2026 prices)
Real per-square-metre prices for Sir Walter, Kikuyu, Couch and Fescue installed across Melbourne's south-east. Updated May 2026.
If you've Googled "turf installation cost Melbourne" you've probably seen a wide spread — anywhere from $15/m² to $80/m² installed. That's because most quotes lump turf, prep and access together and call it a number. Here's what those prices actually mean in 2026, with no marketing fluff.
Quick answer
Most residential turf installations in Melbourne's south-east land between $25 and $45 per square metre installed, including site prep. Premium varieties and difficult access push the top of that range; bigger flat blocks with good access push the bottom.
What changes the price
- Turf variety — Sir Walter Buffalo sits around $11–$14/m² supply-only; Kikuyu and Couch are $7–$10/m². Fescue is similar to Buffalo.
- Site prep — old lawn removal, soil testing, levelling and topsoil amendment add $5–$15/m² depending on what's there now.
- Access — wheelbarrow access only (tight gates, no side path) typically adds 10–20%.
- Block size — under 30m² jobs carry a small-job premium; 100m²+ jobs get a per-square discount.
What we charge
For a typical new-build front-yard turf job in Pakenham or Clyde North — say 100m² of Sir Walter, decent access, builder-level soil prep needed — we usually quote $30–$35/m² installed, with a 14-day aftercare schedule included.
Don't skip the prep
Most turf failures we see come from skipped prep, not the turf itself. New turf laid on uneven ground or compacted clay will stress in the first summer, develop dry patches and look tired by year two. Proper levelling, soil amendment and watering through the first 14 days is what separates a lawn that looks good in year five from one that needs replacing.
Want an exact number for your block?
We quote on-site for free and you'll have a written number within 24 hours. Get a quote or call us on (03) XXXX XXXX.