What Does a Turf Laying Job Cost in Brisbane & the Gold Coast in 2025

A lush, green lawn can completely transform your outdoor space, making it more inviting, functional, and valuable. If you're considering laying new turf in Brisbane or the Gold Coast, one of the first questions you'll have is: How much will it cost?

The cost of turf installation can vary depending on factors like the type of turf, the size of your yard, and the level of preparation required. In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about turf laying costs in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, so you can budget accordingly and make an informed decision.

Factors That Affect Turf Laying Costs

Several factors impact the total cost of laying new turf, including:

Turf Type: Different turf varieties come at different price points, based on their durability, maintenance requirements, and suitability for local conditions. Some common options include:

• Buffalo Grass (e.g., Sir Walter Buffalo) – Great for shaded areas, soft underfoot, and drought-resistant. Estimated cost: $12–$18 per m².

• Couch Grass (e.g., Wintergreen Couch) – Budget-friendly and ideal for full sun but requires more maintenance. Estimated cost: $6–$12 per m².

• Zoysia Grass (e.g., Empire Zoysia) – Low-maintenance, slow-growing, and great for heat and drought tolerance. Estimated cost: $10–$16 per m².

• Kikuyu Grass (e.g., Kenda Kikuyu) – Fast-growing and affordable, ideal for high-traffic areas. Estimated cost: $5–$10 per m².

• Bermuda Grass (e.g., TifTuf Bermuda) – Extremely drought-tolerant with a fine texture, perfect for sunny areas. Estimated cost: $8–$14 per m².

  For a deeper dive into the best turf options for Brisbane and the Gold Coast, check out our Best Turf for South East Queensland Backyards guide.

Yard Size & Accessibility: Most turf suppliers price their products per square meter, so the larger your lawn, the higher your costs. However, bulk orders often come with discounts. If your yard is difficult to access, additional labor may be needed, increasing installation costs.

Soil Preparation & Site Conditions: Before laying turf, the ground needs to be properly prepared.

• Removing old grass & weeds – Can cost $2–$5 per m² if professional removal is needed.

• Adding underturf soil – Good quality underturf soil can cost $50–$80 per cubic meter.

• Levelling and grading – Essential for proper drainage, costing around $5–$10 per m² if done professionally.

Labour & Installation Fees: If you're hiring professionals, expect to pay for:

• Turf delivery fees – Often $50–$150, depending on location and order size.

• Professional installation – Generally $10–$20 per m², depending on complexity.

Breakdown of Turf Laying Costs in Brisbane & Gold Coast

Here’s an estimated cost breakdown for a 50m² lawn using professional installation:

For DIY installation, you could reduce costs by around $500–$1,000, depending on how much preparation is needed.

Hiring Equipment for Turf Preparation

If your lawn requires significant preparation, you may need to hire additional equipment. This can add extra costs, but it ensures the job is done correctly. Some common rental equipment includes:

• Rotary hoe (for breaking up compacted soil) – $80–$150 per day

• Lawn roller (for levelling the surface) – $30–$60 per day

• Excavator (for removing existing turf or levelling large areas) – $200–$500 per day

Hiring equipment may be necessary if you're handling site preparation yourself. Alternatively, a professional turf installer will have access to these tools, often including them in their overall service cost.

How to Save Money on Turf Installation

If you're looking to cut costs without sacrificing quality, consider these tips:

✅ Choose a turf variety that suits your needs – Opt for a low-maintenance variety to save on future care costs.

✅ Prepare your yard in advance – Removing old grass and weeds yourself can save you hundreds. If you're looking to DIY, check out our guide on how to prepare your yard for new turf.

✅ Compare quotes from multiple installers – Prices vary, so get a few quotes before making a decision.

✅ Order in bulk – Larger orders often come with discounts on turf and delivery.

✅ Lay turf yourself (if you're confident) – DIY installation can save on labor, but make sure you follow a step-by-step guide to avoid costly mistakes.

Why Hiring a Pro Is Worth It

While DIY can be tempting, hiring professionals ensures a flawless finish and long-term lawn health.

✅ Expert Grading & Drainage – Pros will ensure your lawn drains correctly, preventing future issues.

✅ Faster & More Efficient – A professional team can complete the job in a day, while DIY might take multiple weekends.

✅ Quality Guarantee – Many professional turf layers offer warranties or guarantees for their work.

❌ DIY Mistakes Can Cost More – Uneven laying, poor soil prep, and incorrect watering can lead to dead patches and extra costs for reinstallation.

Get a Free Turf Laying Quote Today!

At Yard Barbers, we specialize in professional turf installation across Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Our team ensures a smooth, even, and long-lasting lawn—so you don’t have to worry about costly mistakes.

We can help you decide which turf to use and handle the entire installation process, from soil preparation to precision laying, so you get a lush, healthy lawn that lasts.

📞 Call Yard Barbers on 0432 875 673 or visit www.yardbarbers.com.au to book a free quote today!