Best Wood for Decking in Australia

Hardwoods are popular for their durability and beauty. Most native Australian timbers thrive in tough local conditions and are a top choice for premium decks.

Spotted Gum combines strength with stunning visuals. Its colour ranges from light brown to deep chocolate, often with a unique wavy grain. It’s a Class 1 hardwood. That is, it’s highly durable, fire-resistant, and termite-proof.

Despite its density, it’s relatively easy to work with. Its low tannin content means minimal bleeding, and it takes stains and oils well.

Blackbutt offers subtle beauty and practical benefits. The timber’s golden to pale brown hues and straight grain give it a clean, modern aesthetic. It also accepts stains well.

Its excellent fire resistance makes it one of the few timbers certified for bushfire zones. With Class 1 durability and termite resistance, Blackbutt is a smart long-term investment, requiring proper sealing to prevent surface cracking.

Merbau is Australia’s most popular decking timber. It features a rich reddish-brown colour and distinctive grain. Dense and strong, it resists decay, termites, and weathering. Its natural oils protect it from shrinking or warping, and it needs oiling only every 3–6 months.

However, Merbau has a high tannin content, which can cause staining on surrounding surfaces if not properly sealed, something to keep in mind if installing near pools or light-coloured finishes.

Native to Western Australia, Jarrah ranges from deep red to dark brown tones. Its natural durability and fire resistance make it ideal for humid or bushfire-prone areas. It lasts about 25 years and holds up well against termites and moisture.

Jarrah does require more upkeep to maintain its vibrant red hues; untreated boards will weather to a silver-grey. Many homeowners find its colour worth the extra effort.

Your decking choice also affects the environment. Timber is a renewable resource that stores carbon, improves air quality during growth, and continues to store carbon after installation.

To ensure sustainability, look for certification from organisations like:

• – Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)
• – Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC)
• – Responsible Wood (Australia-specific)

These labels mean your timber came from responsibly managed forests that protect biodiversity and support local communities.

Reclaimed timber is another smart option. Recycled hardwoods like Spotted Gum and Ironbark offer high durability and distinctive aged looks. Many reclaimed boards are wire-brushed for better slip resistance.

Composite decking is an increasingly popular sustainable alternative. Made from up to 90% recycled materials, including plastic bottles and reclaimed wood dust, it reduces landfill waste and preserves natural forests.

Composite decks also avoid chemical treatments, which helps protect soil and water. With a long lifespan and minimal maintenance, they offer solid eco-credentials.

Finally, buying local matters. Australian-grown and manufactured decking reduces transport emissions and supports the local economy, making it both an ethical and environmental win.