By Fiona Gallagher · permaculture designer · food, animals and preservation on 12 acres in Tassie
“After losing fifteen birds to a fox that slipped under a half-metre high skirt, I now build all tractors with buried galvanised mesh extending one foot underground.”
— Fiona. If you can't eat it, it goes to the chooks.
ArticlesCalculatorsSite PlannerShopDesigning a chicken tractor in Australia? You need to think about size, weight, mobility, predator protection, and where to buy. Here's the lowdown.
Blunt. Practical. No fluff.
Designing a chicken tractor in Australia? You need to think about size, weight, mobility, predator protection, and where to buy. Here's the lowdown.
Chicken tractors need to be big enough to house your flock but light enough to move. Aim for 1-2m x 1-2m. Too small? Chickens will stress. Too heavy? You'll struggle moving it.
| Factor | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Minimum Size | 1.2m x 1.2m (4ft x 4ft) |
| Max Weight | Under 150kg (330lbs) for mobility |
| Roof Height | At least 1.5m (5ft) for ventilation |
Mobile tractors let you rotate grazing areas, but fixed ones are cheaper. Choose based on land size and budget.
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Mobile | Rotates grazing, reduces pest damage | More expensive, harder to build |
| Fixed | Cheaper, easier to maintain | Can't rotate, risk of overgrazing |
Australian predators include foxes, dogs, and birds of prey. Use AS/NZS-approved hardware and secure fencing.
| Protection Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Wire Mesh | Use 2.5mm galvanised wire (AS/NZS 1171) |
| Chicken Wire | 1.5mm mesh, buried 150mm deep |
| Roof Cover | 100g/m² shade cloth (Bunnings) |
Prices in AUD. Use these links for affiliate commissions (tag: offgridmast09-22).
| Item | Supplier | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Galvanised Wire | Bunnings | $15-$30/m |
| Chicken Wire | Jaycar | $20-$40/m |
| Solar Panel | Amazon Australia | $100-$300 |
Build it right, and your chickens will thank you. Don't skimp on predator proofing. Foxes don't care about your feelings.
Worth a watch: Off Grid Chicken Coop Tour | Chicken Compost · Simply Off Grid - Australia
While many off-grid projects are achievable as DIY, certain situations require licensed professionals:
Always check local regulations and obtain necessary permits before commencing work.