What Does a Qualified Arborist Actually Mean?

Holding a chainsaw licence allows someone to operate a chainsaw. It does not mean they understand tree biology, structural defects, appropriate pruning techniques or how today’s cuts affect a tree years into the future.

Tree work involves managing living structures that respond to stress, injury and decay over time. This is where the difference between cutting a tree and caring for a tree becomes critical.

What a Chainsaw Licence Does Not Teach

• Tree biology and growth processes
• Identification of structural defects and failure risks
• Australian pruning standards
• How pruning decisions impact a tree in 5, 10 or 20 years

Without this knowledge, well-intentioned work can unintentionally shorten a tree’s life or increase long-term risk.

What a Qualified Arborist Does

• Completes years of formal training in arboriculture
• Holds Certificate III in Arboriculture (typically 2–3 years)
• May hold advanced qualifications such as Certificate V or Consulting Arborist accreditation
• Understands how trees grow, respond to stress and fail
• Works to Australian Standards (AS 4373 – Pruning of Amenity Trees)
• Assesses tree structure, health, risk and long-term safety
• Has completed Tree Risk Assessment training
• Holds appropriate insurance
• Undertakes ongoing professional development as standards and research evolve
• Knows when not to cut

The Takeaway

Anyone can cut a tree. A qualified arborist understands the consequences of those cuts and makes informed decisions that balance safety, tree health and long-term outcomes.