What is the minimum hourly rate for an arborist in Australia?

Under the Gardening and Landscaping Services Award 2020, the minimum hourly rate for an adult arborist depends on their classification. The Introductory Level is $25.74/h (first 6 months), Level 1 is $26.44/h, Level 2 $27.08/h, Level 3 $28.28/h, Level 4 $29.45/h, and Level 5 $30.38/h. These rates apply from the first full pay period on or after 1 July 2026. An enterprise agreement or individual contract can set a higher rate.

Are arborists entitled to junior or apprentice rates?

Yes. If the arborist is under 21 and not a trade-qualified junior, the award allows a percentage of the adult rate (e.g., 70% for under 18, 80% at 18, 90% at 19). Apprentices in horticulture (arboriculture) are paid a percentage of the Level 4 tradesperson rate, starting at 50% in the first year (if not completed Year 12) up to 95% in the fourth year. Adult apprentices have separate rates.

How do I know which classification level applies to my arborist role?

The award’s classification structure (Schedule A) groups duties and skill levels. An arborist performing basic tree care may be Level 2 or 3, while a qualified tradesperson with advanced skills could be Level 4 or 5. Your employer must classify you correctly based on the work you do. If you disagree, contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for guidance.

Arborist salary in Australia: award rates and the legal pay floor

The legal minimum for an arborist covered by the Gardening and Landscaping Services Award is at least $25.74 per hour (Introductory Level) for the first six months, then at least $26.44 per hour (Level 1 or national minimum), with higher rates for higher classifications.

Arborist salary: what the award says

When searching for an arborist salary in Australia, the first thing to know is which pay floor applies. Most arborists are covered by the Gardening and Landscaping Services Award 2020, as confirmed by the Fair Work Ombudsman. This award sets minimum hourly rates for different skill levels, from an introductory rate for new starters up to a Level 5 rate for experienced tradespeople.

The legal minimum for an arborist

The award minimum for an adult arborist starts at $25.74 per hour (Introductory Level) for the first six months of employment. After that, the rate must be at least $26.44 per hour (Level 1), which matches the national minimum wage set by the Fair Work Commission. However, most arborists will be classified at a higher level depending on their duties and qualifications. The full range of adult award rates from 1 July 2026 is:

Introductory Level: $25.74/h ($978.10/week)
Level 1: $26.44/h ($1,004.90/week)
Level 2: $27.08/h ($1,029.10/week)
Level 3: $28.28/h ($1,074.70/week)
Level 4: $29.45/h ($1,119.10/week)
Level 5: $30.38/h ($1,154.30/week)

These are minimums only. An enterprise agreement or individual contract can require a higher rate. Superannuation (the super guarantee) is paid on top of these rates at 12% of ordinary time earnings.

What about survey averages?

The Fair Work Ombudsman and the award do not publish a single "average arborist salary." The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) reports average weekly earnings for all full-time adults ($2,083.70 per week in May 2026), but that figure covers all occupations and is not specific to arborists. Without a reliable industry survey, we cannot give a median or typical arborist salary. The legal minimum is the only figure we can confidently state.

Junior and apprentice arborist rates

If you are under 21 and not trade-qualified, the award allows a percentage of the adult rate. For example, an 18-year-old arborist at Level 1 would receive 80% of $26.44, or $21.15 per hour. Apprentices in arboriculture are paid a percentage of the Level 4 tradesperson rate ($29.45/h). First-year apprentices who have not completed Year 12 get 50% ($14.73/h), while those who have completed Year 12 get 55% ($16.20/h). Rates increase in later years up to 95% in the fourth year.

How to check your rate

Use the Which minimum wage applies page to see if you are award-covered. The Rate tables page has the full award classification structure. If you think you are being underpaid, contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for advice. Remember, the award is the floor – your actual arborist salary may be higher by agreement.

Super and other entitlements

All minimum rates quoted are before tax. Employers must pay superannuation on top, currently 12% of ordinary time earnings. Award-covered arborists are also entitled to penalty rates for overtime, weekend work, and public holidays, as well as allowances for tools, leading hands, and working in wet conditions. These extras can significantly boost take-home pay.

Final note

This guide focuses on the legal minimum for an arborist salary under the Gardening and Landscaping Award. For a personalised calculation, use the Guides section or the Fair Work Ombudsman’s Pay and Conditions Tool. If you are award-free (rare for arborists), the national minimum wage of $26.44/h applies.