Understanding turf cost in Australia isn’t as simple as looking at a price tag. The true expense involves a mix of factors — from the grass variety you choose, to installation complexity, climate suitability, and long-term maintenance requirements. Whether you’re a homeowner aiming for a perfect lawn, a reseller stocking premium turf varieties, or a landscaping professional laying turf for sports fields and commercial projects, making informed decisions about turf prices can mean the difference between a lawn that thrives for decades and one that needs replacing in a few years.
In this guide, we’ll explore what influences how much turf is worth, break down installation costs, and help you identify the most suitable turf for your local area and intended use.
Quick Look: Factors Affecting Turf Prices in Australia
| Factor | Why It Matters | Potential Impact on Turf Cost |
| Grass Variety | Different turf varieties (e.g. sir walter, couch grass, zoysia grass) have varying drought tolerance, wear resistance, and aesthetics. | Premium buffalo grass can be higher per square metre. |
| Climate Suitability | Some varieties handle extreme heat, frost tolerant conditions, or tropical climates better. | Choosing the wrong ideal grass for your region increases maintenance. |
| Soil Preparation | Sandy soils, clay, or poor drainage may need significant preparation. | Can add additional costs per square metre in labour/materials. |
| Installation Complexity | Irregular shapes, slopes, or poor access affect labour costs. | Complex layouts require more time and skill. |
The Real Story Behind Turf Cost
When people ask “how much does turf cost?”, the answer is rarely straightforward. While economical turf might be appealing, cutting corners can lead to turf diseases, poor establishment, and costly replacements.
Premium natural grass — such as sir walter buffalo grass or zoysia turf — may cost more upfront but delivers stronger roots, bright green leaves, and the ability to tolerate wear in high traffic areas. Zoysia grass thrive with low maintenance, while buffalo grass remains a favourite for home lawns due to its shade tolerance.
Key Considerations Before You Lay Turf
1. Select a Suitable Grass Variety
Your climate, soil type, and intended use should guide your decision.
- Colder climates: Look for frost tolerant and highly disease resistant types.
- Tropical climates: Choose highly drought resistant and salt tolerant varieties for coastal areas.
- High traffic areas: Go for buffalo grass or couch for resilience.
2. Prepare the Ground Properly
To be laid properly, turf needs:
- At least 100mm of quality topsoil
- Weed removal before installation
- Soil amendments for sandy soils or clay
Neglecting preparation can double your maintenance needs.
3. Account for Long-Term Maintenance
Some varieties are naturally low maintenance turf, while others like couch grass may need more mowing and fertilising. To help you decide, based on your personal needs and preferences, you can check out our list here, or send us your questions online.
FAQs on Turf Prices and Installation
Q: Which is better for drought tolerant lawns?
A: Zoysia grass, and buffalo grass varieties are ideal for drought resistant and highly drought resistant conditions.
Q: Can I lay turf myself to save costs?
A: Yes, but improper preparation often leads to uneven growth or turf diseases, costing more long term.
Final Thoughts
A perfect lawn starts with good turf, matched to your conditions, and laid properly by experienced professionals.Investing in quality will save you time, water, and replacement costs for years to come. Your decision should factor in not just per square metre cost, but also installation costs, long-term care, and suitability to your local area.