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LANDSCAPER
Gender Representation
90% Male
Median Age
41
Median Weekly Earnings
$1346
Average Weekly Hours
38 Hours
ROLE & RESPONSIBILITIES
A Landscaper is responsible for creating and maintaining outdoor spaces such as gardens, parks, schools, sports fields, and commercial landscapes. Their work involves tasks like mowing, edging, planting, pruning, mulching, weed control, and irrigation system upkeep. In landscape installation roles, they may also lay paving, install retaining walls, build garden beds, and assist with outdoor design implementation. In maintenance-focused roles, they ensure that grounds remain healthy, tidy, and safe all year round.
This role is ideal for people who enjoy physical outdoor work and take pride in creating beautiful, functional green spaces. It requires good plant knowledge, practical skills, and the ability to operate a variety of tools and machinery.
Landscapers often work in local councils, schools, sports facilities, commercial landscaping firms, or self-employment. A Certificate II or III in Horticulture (Landscape or Parks & Gardens stream) is highly regarded and may be required for more technical or supervisory positions.
MARKET SIZE & ECONOMIC IMPACT
Australia’s horticulture industry is a vital part of the nation’s agricultural economy and a key contributor to food security, exports, and regional employment. Encompassing fruit, vegetables, nuts, nursery plants, turf, and cut flowers, the sector is valued at over $16 billion annually and supports more than 60,000 jobs across growing, harvesting, processing, and distribution.
The industry is made up of a diverse network of growers, agronomists, irrigation specialists, harvest workers, packers, and logistics teams—servicing both domestic markets and international trade. With increasing global demand for high-quality, fresh Australian produce, horticulture is one of the most dynamic and growth-oriented areas of agriculture.
Horticulture plays a crucial role in regional development, environmental sustainability, and health outcomes by providing year-round employment and contributing to biodiversity and land stewardship. Major crops such as citrus, berries, avocados, almonds, and table grapes generate significant export revenue, while local nursery and landscape sectors support urban greening, home gardening, and climate-resilient city planning.
As food systems modernise and climate challenges intensify, the industry is seeing a rise in demand for skilled professionals trained in sustainable farming, precision agriculture, integrated pest management, and supply chain logistics. Investment in infrastructure, export development, and water-smart technologies continues to strengthen the industry’s national impact.
With strong ties to environmental sustainability, trade, and innovation, the horticulture industry offers stable, hands-on career pathways with long-term economic and ecological value—making it an essential sector in the future of Australian agriculture.
EMERGING TRENDS & FUTURE OUTLOOK
Australia’s horticulture industry is evolving in response to climate change, global food demand, and advances in agricultural technology. As consumer expectations shift toward sustainability, traceability, and premium-quality produce, the sector is moving beyond traditional farming to embrace innovation, environmental stewardship, and export diversification.
One of the most significant trends is the rise of precision horticulture—using tools such as drones, GPS mapping, remote sensors, and data analytics to monitor crop health, manage irrigation, and maximise yields. These technologies are helping growers reduce water use, improve fertiliser application, and respond more effectively to pests, disease, and changing weather patterns.
There is also increasing focus on climate resilience and regenerative agriculture, as producers adapt to drought, heatwaves, and shifting growing seasons. Practices such as cover cropping, integrated pest management, and carbon farming are becoming more mainstream, especially in regions experiencing environmental stress.
The expansion of vertical farming, hydroponics, and controlled environment agriculture (CEA) is also reshaping the way fresh produce is grown—particularly in urban and peri-urban areas where land is limited. These systems offer year-round growing potential with lower environmental impact, while also supporting food security and local supply chains.
Looking ahead, the industry is expected to benefit from strong export opportunities, continued investment in agri-tech, and government support for water efficiency, regional development, and workforce upskilling. As the sector modernises, there will be increasing demand for tech-savvy, sustainability-minded professionals with skills in both plant science and agricultural business. The future of the horticulture industry is smart, sustainable, and globally connected—offering diverse and rewarding careers for those passionate about innovation, food systems, and environmental impact.
CURRENT & EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES
Advance to Landscape Supervisor or Site Manager
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Lead teams on residential, commercial, or council landscaping projects.
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Oversee job planning, site safety, equipment use, and daily progress reporting.
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Liaise with clients, suppliers, and subcontractors to ensure quality and efficiency.
Specialise in Garden Design or Horticulture
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Develop skills in landscape design, combining plant knowledge with artistic layout planning.
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Assist clients with plant selection, garden styling, and sustainable planting solutions.
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Work closely with nurseries or botanical specialists to create themed gardens or edible landscapes.
Move into Hardscaping or Construction-Based Roles
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Focus on patios, retaining walls, paving, decking, or drainage systems.
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Gain experience using concrete, timber, and stone materials for structural landscaping.
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Pursue licensing or certifications for machinery operation and structural work.
Work in Council, Parks, or Environmental Restoration
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Maintain public spaces, sports fields, or community gardens.
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Join bush regeneration or conservation teams working on native vegetation and biodiversity.
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Contribute to climate-adaptive green spaces and stormwater management projects.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH
CORE SKILLS YOU NEED
Plant & Soil Knowledge
Hands-On Construction
Planning, Measuring & Interpretation
Physical Fitness & Endurance
Teamwork & Communication
Do you enjoy working outdoors, transforming spaces, and seeing your work come to life? As a Landscaper, you’ll shape gardens, parks, and outdoor areas using both creative design and practical skills in construction, planting, and maintenance.
You don’t need prior experience to get started—just a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and a passion for the outdoors. With the right training, you can build a long-term career in residential, commercial, or public landscaping. To begin your career as a Landscaper, consider completing a nationally recognised qualification such as:
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Certificate III in Landscape Construction
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Diploma of Landscape Design
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Short Courses in Machinery Operation, Irrigation, or Outdoor Lighting