McNaught Earthworks Pty Ltd — Excavation in Orange

Machine excavation (bobcat or excavator hire with operator) costs $90–$180/hr. Site cut and fill for a house slab typically costs $5,000–$20,000 depending on volume and soil type. Rock excavation costs significantly more ($200–$400/hr) due to equipment requirements. Always get quotes based on the specific scope.

Yes — this is legally required. Call Dial Before You Dig (1100 or dial1before.com.au) at least 2 business days before any excavation. They'll provide plans of underground water, gas, electricity, and telecommunications lines. Hitting an underground service can be dangerous and you may be liable for repair costs.

Cut and fill is the process of cutting into a sloped site to create a level building pad, using the excavated material to fill lower areas. It's the most common method for sloped residential blocks. Engineers design the fill compaction requirements and drainage to prevent subsidence.

Bobcats (skid-steer loaders) are used for tight access and smaller volumes. Mini-excavators suit confined residential sites. Full-size excavators are used for large volumes, deep trenching, or rock breaking. Tipper trucks remove spoil from site. The right equipment depends on access, volume, and soil type.

Clean fill soil can often be taken to local council-approved fill sites, used on other properties, or advertised free on platforms like Gumtree. Contaminated soil must go to a licensed waste facility. Your excavation contractor usually arranges removal — confirm this is included in the quote.