Small-Scale Pig Setup for Families
Twelve acres in Tasmania, a family to feed, and a budget that wouldn't stretch to a commercial operation. I built a pig system I could afford, and what follows is how it works: paddock planning, fencing and shelter construction to AS/NZS standard, day-to-day upkeep, and the real AUD costs behind it.
Why We Keep Two Pigs at a Time
I run three to five pigs and that comfortably feeds a family of four to six. The conversion rate beats anything else you can grow on a small block — pork, manure for the orchard, and a tidy income if you sell weaners. Stick to that stocking number and the returns stack up quick.
Building the Family Pig Setup
- Plan Your Space: Use AS/NZS 3589 for pig housing. Minimum 4m x 4m per pig.
- Secure Legal Approval: Check with your local council for livestock permits.
- Build a Pen: Use Bunnings' galvanised fencing (AUD $150/m) and Jaycar's hardware.
- Source Breeds: Choose heritage breeds like Tamworth for hardiness.
- Feed Strategy: Start with commercial pig pellets (AUD $20/kg) then transition to kitchen scraps.
The First Pig Pen Disaster
| Item | Quantity | Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|---|
| Pig pen materials | 10m fencing | 150 |
| Feeders | 3 units | 80 |
| Waterers | 3 units | 60 |
| Bedding (straw) | 1m³ | 25 |
| Total | 315 |
Pig Setup Mistakes
- Overcrowding pigs (max 1 pig per 4m²)
- Using unapproved feed (risk of disease)
- Ignoring biosecurity (e.g., no visitors to the pen)
- Not providing shade or shelter
- Skipping regular vet check-ups
Daily, Weekly and Monthly Chores
| Task | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Check feed/water levels | Daily |
| Inspect pen for damage | Weekly |
| Sanitize feeding areas | Every 3 days |
| Monitor weight/health | Bi-weekly |
| Rotate pasture | Monthly |
The Gear That Actually Went Into the Pen
Use these trusted Australian suppliers for quality gear:
Galvanised Pig Pen Panels (Bunnings) Automatic Waterer (Jaycar) Pig Feeders (AS/NZS compliant) Portable Shelter (Bunnings) Pig Health Kit (Vet-approved)The Questions Every Family Asks Before Getting Pigs
The licensing check I did before bringing pigs home in Tasmania
A: Yes. Check with your local council for livestock permits and AS/NZS 3589 compliance.
Feed Costs: What Two Pigs Actually Eat Per Week
A: AUD $10–$20 per pig per week, depending on size and feed type.
Pigs in the Suburbs
A: Only if your council approves. Check noise, odour, and biosecurity regulations.
Fencing, Shelters and Space: Getting Pig Housing Right
A: Use a 4m x 4m pen with 1.5m high fencing. Include a shelter and drainage.
Quarantine, parasites and daily health checks
A: Quarantine new pigs, use clean feed, and consult a vet for vaccinations.
Disclaimer: Always check local council regulations and AS/NZS standards before setting up livestock. Consult a qualified vet for health concerns. Off-Grid Master is not liable for damages from improper setup.
Conclusion
Since 2010 I've run pigs on my 12‑acre Tassie block, and the payoff—fresh pork, rich manure, a closed‑loop food source—only comes if you plan before you build. A modest pen and a few weaners teach you feeding routines, fencing fixes, and health checks far faster than a sprawling setup that eats your weekends and your budget. Keep the operation small, lodge the council paperwork, and treat safety as non‑negotiable.