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How to Become an Arborist: Australian Careers in Landscape Design

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What is a Arborist?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

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What is a Arborist?

An arborist cares for trees and shrubs. They prune branches, treat disease, remove hazardous trees, and advise clients on tree health. Arborists work in parks, streets, gardens, and commercial sites across Australia.

The job is hands-on and varied. Arborists climb trees, run chainsaws, and use elevated work platforms. They also check tree risk, write reports, and work with councils and property owners.

Many arborists pick a specialty over time. Options include consulting, urban forestry, pest control, and tree surgery. The growing focus on urban green space keeps demand for skilled arborists strong.

This career suits people who enjoy outdoor work and care about the environment. With the right training and experience, arborists can move into team leader, consulting, or management roles.

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Career snapshots For Arborists

Around 7,000 Australians work as arborists, with moderate demand forecast for the profession (yourcareer.gov.au, 2024). About 80% of arborists work full-time, averaging 41 hours per week. The median age is 36, making it a relatively young profession. Women make up around 3% of the workforce. Average annual earnings are around $75,000 per year (Arboriculture Australia, 2025). Career paths span hands-on tree work, risk consulting, and urban forestry management.

What will I do?

Arborists carry out a wide range of tree care tasks each day. Work begins with assessing the health and structure of trees. The arborist then plans and performs the most appropriate treatment.

  • Pruning: Arborists prune trees and hedges to support healthy growth and maintain shape.
  • Condition assessment: They examine trees to check health and identify any treatment needed.
  • Lopping: Using chainsaws or handsaws, arborists remove limbs and reshape branches safely.
  • Pest and disease control: They spray and dust trees to manage insects and disease.
  • Tree removal: Arborists safely fell and remove dead or hazardous trees.
  • Support installation: They fit cables, stakes, and guards to protect young or weak trees.
  • Client advice: Arborists provide guidance to property owners and councils on tree care.

What skills do I need?

Arborists need a mix of tree knowledge and physical skill. A solid grasp of tree biology helps them spot disease, check risk, and pick the right treatment. They also need to use chainsaws, handsaws, and elevated work platforms safely and well.

Physical fitness matters in this role. Arborists climb trees, lift heavy branches, and work outdoors in all weather. A focus on safety is just as vital as strength or stamina.

Communication is a key part of the job. Arborists advise clients, write reports, and work with councils and contractors. Being able to explain tree issues clearly builds trust and repeat business.

Skills/attributes

  • Knowledge of tree biology and ecology
  • Tree pruning and shaping techniques
  • Safe operation of chainsaws and climbing gear
  • Pest and disease identification and treatment
  • Risk assessment and hazard identification
  • Physical fitness for outdoor and at-height work
  • Effective written and verbal communication
  • Problem-solving and sound judgement
  • Teamwork on multi-person tree crews
  • Knowledge of WHS safety regulations for tree work
  • Time management across multiple client sites
  • Customer service and client advisory skills

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About the author

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.