Sutherland Shire’s Tree Planting Program aims to replace tree canopies removed from private properties and the public domain.
Trees are vital for people and our suburbs. They contribute to the resilience and sustainability of neighbourhoods. New trees planted in our streets and parks help the community connect to nature. Trees in Sutherland Shire also host 75 per cent of our terrestrial biodiversity.
This next generation of trees produced by Council's Tree Planting Program will provide residents with shaded access to open spaces for years to come.
How does the Tree Planting Program work?
Our goal is to plant trees that will grow into healthy, mature specimens.
We consult geological maps to ensure the soil is suitable. Tree positioning and size is based on site constraints, including above- and below-ground utilities and services, sightlines and clearance requirements.
We actively water and weed around new trees for one year before removing the stakes.
Since 2013, we have planted over 14,000 trees on road reserves and public places.
Current Tree Planting Program
Starting in September 2026, Sutherland Shire Council will commence the Greening Our City Program in Caringbah, proudly funded by the NSW Government. The project aims to increase tree canopy, improve biodiversity, reduce urban heat and create a greener, cooler and more connected community.
The program includes the planting of more than 250 new street trees across residential and industrial areas of Caringbah (refer map below), the establishment of four new micro forests in local reserves to strengthen habitat connections and support urban biodiversity, and the overall maintenance of trees recently planted in the area.
Tree Species Selection
A diverse range of native species will be planted, carefully selected to suit local conditions, available growing space, surrounding infrastructure and long-term canopy objectives. Species include a mix of large, medium and small native trees such as forest red gums, scribbly gums, grey gums, smooth-barked apples water gums, lilly pillies, blueberry ash, tuckeroos and bottlebrushes.
The micro forests will incorporate a variety of indigenous canopy trees, shrubs and groundcovers that reflect local ecosystems and provide valuable habitat and food sources for birds, pollinators and other native wildlife.
Establishment and Ongoing Maintenance
Following planting, all new trees will undergo an establishment and maintenance program to support healthy growth and long-term success. This includes regular inspections, watering, mulching, weed control, stake and tie adjustments, and replacement of any trees that fail to establish.
As part of Council's ongoing commitment to growing and maintaining the urban forest, crews will also continue maintenance of street trees recently planted throughout the Caringbah area. Residents may see Council staff and contractors undertaking watering, inspections, pruning, mulch replenishment, stake removal and other maintenance activities to help young trees establish and thrive.
These works will help ensure the new and recently planted trees provide lasting benefits through increased shade, improved biodiversity, enhanced streetscapes and a more resilient urban environment for future generations.
Together, we're growing a greener, cooler and more resilient Caringbah
Any questions regarding this project please contact Aaron Gray, Planting project manager at greenstreets@ssc.nsw.gov.au
Street tree planting request
Sutherland Shire Council has a tree planting team dedicated to planting and maintaining trees in the road reserve in front of resident's properties upon request.
- Tree planting occurs in the cooler months of the year to ensure the trees become established and do not suffer from heat stress
- You can help your street tree thrive by watering it frequently in hot weather - and occasionally in winter - while it is young.
If you have a spot on your nature strip where you’d like a native street tree planted, please contact us to nominate your preferred site. Council will then decide if it is suitable.