I would plant along the fence line trees like Magnolia (Little Gem) or Hibiscus, and there where the wider part - low shrubs under the trees or stripy Dianella. All these plants and trees are hardy and easy to take care of. Trees don't drop the leaves and slow growing. Otherwise you can place pots with bright plants (Frangipani grows well in the pots). You can mulch the soil under the trees or put some pebbles or gravel like I did (see the photos).

When you render the bricks I would consider leaving some of them exposed here and there - that reminds me of old Tuscan buildings! I would include some large terracotta pots with olive trees or lemon trees, also as others have suggested some brightly coloured geraniums in hanging baskets against the wall or in terra cotta pots. Here are a couple of shots of my back deck (which isn't looking its absolute best) but to give you an idea of the large pots and colour. You have a beautiful spot to work with good luck! Sue

No photos are attached.....and what is a beachside toe house?

This is really a utility area. You have a washing line, an air conditioner unit, which are noisy, and a hot water system in that area. I would not be spending a great deal on flooring. I would purchase more planters for flowers and vegetables and put them along the fence line. I can see your small outdoor seating is in the corner, because it would be in the way for the washing line, but ideally have that in the middle or to where the cat is sitting. Then lots of flowering plants and greenery along the entire perimeter of the courtyard space. This is something you could do yourself after a trip to Bunnings or a similar retail shop. The concrete ground just needs a good sweep. If you install decking then this may need ongoing maintenance and not really achieve anything. Don’t pay money for someone to do this job, when it is quite achievable by yourself, and fun, and satisfying. If you are not physically capable then a handyman gardener would purchase and pot all the plants.