The Best Chicken Wire for Australian Properties: Finding the Right Poultry Fencing

For Australian chicken keepers seeking the best fencing for their chickens, quality chicken wire transforms vulnerable coops and runs into secure environments. Yet with countless options available nationally, finding the best wire for your chicken run can feel overwhelming. This guide cuts through the complexity to help you make a confident, informed decision about what makes the best chicken wire and poultry netting for your unique Australian conditions.

What Is Chicken Wire?

Chicken wire (also known as poultry netting) is a flexible mesh fencing material made from thin, galvanized wire arranged in a hexagonal pattern. Designed originally for containing poultry, this versatile material now serves multiple purposes across Australian properties, from garden protection to construction applications.

Quality chicken wire balances durability and practicality with:

• Hexagonal mesh patterns in various aperture sizes (typically 13-50mm)
• Galvanized or PVC-coated wire for corrosion resistance
• Height options ranging from 60cm to 1.8m to suit different applications
• Wire gauges from 19-22 for varying strength requirements
• Roll lengths from 5m for small projects to 50m for larger enclosures
• Edge finishing that prevents wire unraveling and injury risks

Whether you’re establishing a backyard chicken coop in suburban Melbourne, protecting vegetable gardens in the Northern Rivers, or developing animal enclosures on a hobby farm in regional South Australia, well-chosen chicken wire becomes essential infrastructure for productive property management.

Chicken Wire Comparison: Top Products Available in Australia

When comparing specific chicken wire products, it helps to see them side-by-side with their key specifications and ideal use cases. The following table highlights some of the most popular and readily available options in the Australian market:

Product	Manufacturer	Mesh Size	Wire Gauge	Coating	RRP (AUD/10m)	Best For	Utility Score
Rural Wire Netting	Whites (Australia)	25mm	19-gauge	Heavy Galvanised	$85	Permanent poultry enclosures	A+
Longlife Blue Netting	Cyclone (Australia)	25mm	20-gauge	Enhanced Zinc	$90	Coastal applications	A
Hexanet Premium	Jackson’s (Australia)	13mm	19-gauge	Triple Galvanised	$110	Maximum security applications	A
Poultry Netting	Red Brand (USA)	25mm	20-gauge	Standard Galvanised	$75	All-purpose protection	A
GalMax Standard	GalMax (Australia)	25mm	21-gauge	Standard Galvanised	$60	Budget-conscious projects	B+
PVC Coated Garden	Whites (Australia)	13mm	20-gauge	PVC over Galvanised	$95	High-visibility or harsh environments	A
Sentinel Garden	Cyclone (Australia)	13mm	21-gauge	UV-Enhanced Zinc	$80	Garden protection systems	A
Wildlife Management	Jackson’s (Australia)	Variable	20-gauge	Low-Reflection Finish	$120	Native species management	A
QuickFence Kit	ABCO (Australia)	40mm	22-gauge	Light Galvanised	$50	Temporary enclosures	B+
Contractor Series	ABCO (Australia)	25mm	20-gauge	Standard Galvanised	$70	Large-scale projects	25mm`

Grainshed Utility Score Explanation

• A+: Premium investment – Exceptional durability, protection, and value retention
• A: Strong investment – Excellent capability with minimal compromises
• B+: Solid performer – Good functionality with acceptable limitations
• B: Basic utility – Adequate for limited tasks with notable constraints
• C: Specialized application only – Limited long-term value proposition

Key Insights from Our Comparison:

• Whites Rural Wire Netting earns our top A+ rating for its exceptional balance of durability, protection capability, and Australian-specific engineering.
• Smaller mesh sizes (13mm) command significant price premiums but deliver essential protection against smaller predators.
• Wire gauge significantly impacts price, with each step heavier adding approximately 15-20% to the cost.
• Australian-manufactured products generally` offer better corrosion resistance specifically designed for local conditions.
• Budget-friendly options like ABCO provide adequate performance for temporary applications but may require earlier replacement in permanent installations.

What Makes Good Chicken Wire?

The definition of “good” varies dramatically based on your property’s unique needs. Quality chicken wire for Australian conditions balances durability, protection, and value without unnecessary complexity. Here’s what distinguishes superior options:

1. Appropriate Mesh Size

Mesh size isn’t one-size-fits-all—it’s about matching aperture dimensions to your specific requirements:

• 13mm: Provides maximum security against smaller predators and pests
• 25mm: Standard for most poultry containment needs
• 40-50mm: Suitable for larger animals and more economical fencing solutions

Australian properties often face diverse threats, from foxes to small reptiles. Your chicken wire should have mesh small enough to protect against your most concerning predators while remaining practical for installation and visibility.

2. Weather Resistance

Unlike northern hemisphere markets, Australian fencing faces extreme conditions—from tropical humidity to scorching outback heat. Quality chicken wire features:

• Heavy galvanizing that withstands coastal salt exposure
• UV-stabilized coatings for extended life in harsh sunshine
• Corrosion resistance that performs through repeated wet/dry cycles
• Structural integrity that handles temperature extremes without deformation

3. Practical Installation Features

For efficient installation across varying terrain and structures, superior chicken wire offers:

• Consistent wire tension throughout the roll
• Memory-resistant wire that stays flat during installation
• Clean-cut edges that minimize handling injuries
• Sufficient rigidity to maintain shape without excessive support posts
• Compatibility with standard fastening systems

4. Appropriate Wire Gauge

Wire thickness significantly impacts durability and application suitability:

• 19-gauge: Heavy-duty applications with predator pressure or livestock stress
• 20-gauge: Standard for most chicken coops and garden protection
• 21-22 gauge: Suitable for lightweight applications and temporary structures

5. Value Beyond Price

The best chicken wire balances initial cost with long-term performance:

• Expected lifespan in Australian conditions
• Reduced maintenance requirements
• Appropriately matched specifications to intended use
• Ease of repair when damage occurs

Who Makes the Best Chicken Wire?

While individual needs vary, these manufacturers have proven themselves reliable for Australian property applications:

Whites Wires (Australian Owned)

Australian Market Position: Industry leader with comprehensive national distribution and decades of local manufacturing experience.

Standout Products:

• Rural Wire Netting (heavy galvanized): Premium protection for livestock and high-value applications
• PVC Coated Netting: Superior corrosion resistance for coastal properties
• Hobby Farm Range: Cost-effective solutions for smaller projects

Australian Advantage: Whites products feature galvanizing levels specifically engineered for Australian climate zones, with regional variations suited to tropical, temperate, and arid conditions.

Typical Price Range: $45-$120 per 10m roll

Cyclone (Owned by OneSteel)

Australian Market Position: Historic brand with exceptional durability and nationwide availability.

Standout Products:

• Longlife Blue Netting: Enhanced coating technology for extended service life
• Ringlock Fabricated Mesh: Superior strength for high-pressure applications
• Sentinel Garden Protection: Specialized for intensive garden applications

Australian Advantage: Cyclone’s century of experience with Australian conditions results in products specifically engineered for local challenges, from cyclone-prone northern regions to fire-prone southern states.

Typical Price Range: $50-$140 per 10m roll

Jackson’s Fencing

Australian Market Position: Premium supplier focused on higher-specification products with excellent longevity.

Standout Products:

• Hexanet Premium: Heavy-gauge wire with enhanced galvanizing
• Decorative Garden Mesh: Aesthetically designed for visible applications
• Wildlife Management Series: Specialized options for native animal exclusion/protection

Australian Advantage: Jackson’s products excel in challenging environments where standard products fail prematurely, particularly in high-rainfall and coastal zones.

Typical Price Range: $65-$150 per 10m roll

Red Brand (Imported)

Australian Market Position: American premium brand with growing Australian distribution.

Standout Products:

• Poultry Netting: Consistent quality with excellent tensile strength
• Non-Climb Series: Modified patterns for specialized containment
• KeyStone Steel core products: Superior tension memory for permanent installations

Australian Advantage: Red Brand’s manufacturing precision creates exceptionally consistent products with predictable performance characteristics—ideal for professional installations.

Typical Price Range: $60-$130 per 10m roll

What’s the Best Chicken Wire for Your Needs?

When determining the best chicken wire and fencing for chickens, the answer depends entirely on your specific application and priorities. Are you looking for the best wire for chicken coops, or the best fencing for a chicken run? Perhaps you need the best chicken fence to keep out predators? Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the best poultry netting characteristics based on common chicken keeper needs:

Best Wire for Chicken Runs and Enclosures

Best Mesh Size:

• 13mm mesh: Provides maximum security against predators including foxes, snakes, and young rats. This smaller aperture prevents chickens from poking their heads through and becoming vulnerable to predators. Essential for areas with high predator pressure or valuable breeding stock.
• 25mm mesh: The standard compromise between security, visibility, and cost. Sufficient for most backyard scenarios with adequate supervision. Allows better airflow and visibility.
• 50mm mesh: Only appropriate for very large runs where chickens aren’t left unattended and predator pressure is minimal. Not recommended for primary security barriers.

Optimal Wire Gauge:

• 19-gauge: Ideal for permanent runs that must withstand years of exposure and potential predator attempts. The extra strength prevents foxes from creating entry points and resists deformation from chickens pressing against barriers.
• 20-gauge: The sweet spot for most backyard keepers, balancing durability with reasonable cost. Holds shape well while remaining workable during installation.
• 21-22 gauge: Only suitable for temporary structures or supervised daytime runs. Too light for overnight security in predator-active areas.

Height Considerations:

• 180cm minimum: Prevents both predator entry from jumping and escape from flightier chicken breeds. Allows keepers to enter runs comfortably for maintenance.
• Additional top netting: Critical for areas with aerial predators like hawks and eagles. Also prevents escape from breeds with stronger flying abilities.

Chicken Comfort Factors:

• Avoid sharp wire ends at chicken head height
• Ensure adequate tension to prevent sagging that creates hazards
• Consider visibility impact on chicken behavior (tighter mesh can create a greater sense of security)

Best Wire for Chicken Coops: Roof Netting

Best Choices:

• 25mm mesh in 20-gauge: Balances adequate protection from above with minimal light obstruction. Prevents entry of larger birds while allowing natural sunlight patterns.
• UV-resistant coatings: Essential as roof netting receives maximum sun exposure, accelerating degradation of standard products.
• PVC-coated options: Worth the investment for roof applications as they significantly extend lifespan under intense UV exposure.

Installation Considerations:

• Requires proper tensioning to prevent sagging from rainwater or debris
• Should be installed with slight slope for water runoff
• Benefits from supplemental supports at regular intervals to maintain integrity during adverse weather

For Brooder Protection

Best Choices:

• 13mm mesh in 21-gauge: Provides security for vulnerable chicks while remaining easy to shape into protective barriers. The lightweight construction facilitates frequent cleaning and reconfiguration.
• PVC coating: Reduces sharp edges and creates smooth surfaces that won’t damage delicate chicks. Also simplifies cleaning of inevitable mess.

Key Considerations:

• Must be easily cleanable to maintain hygiene for vulnerable chicks
• Should have no loose ends that might injure young birds
• Needs flexibility for creating appropriate-sized protective spaces

Best Fencing for Chicken Run: Free-Range Management

Best Choices:

• Movable panels with 25mm mesh: Creates flexible management systems that can be reconfigured based on grazing conditions and rotation needs.
• Height of 120-150cm: Sufficient for most standard chicken breeds while remaining manageable for frequent relocation.

Key Considerations:

• Lighter gauge acceptable (21-gauge) if panels include rigid framing
• UV-resistance critical for systems constantly exposed to elements
• Connection systems must balance security with ease of reconfiguration

Best Chicken Fence to Keep Out Predators

Essential Specifications:

• 13mm mesh: The maximum aperture that reliably excludes juvenile foxes and rats
• 19-gauge minimum: Prevents deformation from persistent predator attempts
• Anti-dig barriers: Extend mesh at least 30cm horizontally from fence base
• Double-secured joints: Overlap seams by minimum 10cm with dual fastening methods

Critical Design Elements:

• No gaps larger than 13mm anywhere in system (including gates)
• Regular inspection points for early detection of compromise attempts
• Reinforced corners where predators often test barriers
• Consideration of local predator species (snake protection requires different strategies than fox exclusion)

For Chicken Health and Well-being

The best chicken wire installation prioritizes these welfare considerations:

• Adequate ventilation: Mesh should facilitate natural airflow patterns
• Protection from elements: Consider wind-break panels for exposed areas
• Minimal sharp edges: All cut ends properly finished to prevent injury
• Appropriate visibility: Balance security with natural behavior patterns
• Dust bath access: Ensure security doesn’t eliminate essential natural behaviors
• Appropriate sizing: Avoid overcrowding within secure areas

For Aesthetic Integration

When chicken keeping must balance security with visual appeal:

• PVC-coated in green or black: Blends better with landscape elements than raw galvanized finishes
• Vinyl-coated decorative patterns: Available for visible sections while maintaining security
• Combined systems: Strategic use of more attractive materials in visible areas with standard security in hidden zones
• Vegetation integration: Select mesh that supports climbing plants for natural screening

Best Poultry Netting: Applications and Selection Guide

The best poultry netting offers versatility for numerous applications around Australian properties. Here’s how to select the best fencing for chickens based on specific uses:

Poultry Enclosures

Critical Requirements:

• Predator resistance (particularly against foxes, snakes, and birds of prey)
• Climbing prevention features
• Durability against constant pecking and scratching
• Weather resistance for outdoor exposure

Recommended Specifications:

• Mesh size: 13-25mm (smaller offers better protection)
• Wire gauge: 19-20 gauge for permanent coops
• Height: Minimum 1.8m with anti-dig perimeter
• Coating: Heavy galvanized or PVC for longevity

Best Product Matches:

• Whites Rural Wire Netting (Heavy Galvanized)
• Cyclone Longlife Blue Netting
• Jackson’s Hexanet Premium

Garden Protection

Critical Requirements:

• Appropriate barrier against specific pest species
• Visibility for plant monitoring
• Access points for maintenance
• Aesthetic considerations for visible gardens

Recommended Specifications:

• Mesh size: Variable based on target pest (13mm for rabbits, 25mm for possums)
• Wire gauge: 20-21 gauge for most applications
• Height: Determined by jumping capability of target pests
• Coating: Standard galvanized with UV protection

Best Product Matches:

• Cyclone Sentinel Garden Protection
• Jackson’s Decorative Garden Mesh
• GalMax Standard Netting

Temporary Enclosures

Critical Requirements:

• Easy installation and removal
• Reusability for multiple setups
• Storage capability between uses
• Cost-effectiveness for limited duration use

Recommended Specifications:

• Mesh size: 25-50mm for simplified handling
• Wire gauge: 21-22 gauge for reduced weight
• Height: Application-specific, typically 90-120cm
• Coating: Standard galvanized sufficient for limited exposure

Best Product Matches:

• QuickFence Kits
• Whites Hobby Farm Range
• Red Brand Poultry Netting (Standard)

Native Wildlife Management

Critical Requirements:

• Species-appropriate containment or exclusion
• Minimal visibility impact for natural aesthetics
• Specialized configurations for unique behaviors
• Compliance with wildlife management regulations

Recommended Specifications:

• Mesh size: Species-dependent (consult wildlife authorities)
• Wire gauge: 20-gauge minimum for durability
• Height: Based on behavioral assessment
• Coating: Non-reflective options for sensitive environments

Best Product Matches:

• Jackson’s Wildlife Management Series
• Red Brand Non-Climb Series
• Whites PVC Coated Netting (in appropriate colours)

Construction Applications

Critical Requirements:

• Structural reinforcement capability
• Integration with building materials
• Dimensional stability under stress
• Compliance with building standards

Recommended Specifications:

• Mesh size: 13-25mm depending on application
• Wire gauge: 19-gauge for structural uses
• Dimensions: Precision-cut to specification
• Coating: Compatible with concrete, render, or plaster

Best Product Matches:

• Contractor Series
• Cyclone Ringlock Fabricated Mesh
• Whites Industrial-grade products

Chicken Wire Purchase Decision Matrix

To simplify your decision process, we’ve created this practical decision matrix that aligns your specific property needs with the most suitable chicken wire products:

Your Property Profile	Recommended Mesh Size	Wire Gauge	Key Features to Prioritise	Best-Match Products
Suburban backyard chickens	13-25mm	20-gauge	Appearance, predator protection	Whites Rural Wire, Cyclone Sentinel
Rural property with foxes	13mm	19-gauge	Reinforced edges, dig protection	Jackson’s Hexanet Premium, Whites Rural Heavy
Coastal property	25mm	20-gauge	Enhanced corrosion resistance	Cyclone Longlife Blue, Whites PVC Coated
Vegetable garden protection	13-25mm	21-gauge	Visibility, access points	Cyclone Sentinel Garden, GalMax
Rabbit exclusion	13mm	20-gauge	Ground anchoring, height	Jackson’s Wildlife Management, Whites Rural Wire
Temporary enclosures	25-40mm	21-22 gauge	Easy handling, reusability	QuickFence, Whites Hobby Farm
Large property with multiple needs	25mm	20-gauge	Cost-effective coverage	Contractor Series, Red Brand Poultry Netting
High visibility areas	25mm	20-gauge	Aesthetic finishing, color options	Whites PVC Coated, Jackson’s Decorative
Construction applications	13mm	19-gauge	Structural integrity, cutting precision	Contractor Series, Cyclone Ringlock

How to Choose the Best Chicken Wire for Australian Conditions

1. Assess Your Specific Threats

When selecting the best wire for chicken coops and runs, consider:

• Local predator species and their capabilities
• Smallest pest requiring exclusion
• Physical stress from contained chickens
• Environmental exposure severity that could compromise the best chicken fence to keep out predators

2. Evaluate Your Installation Environment

Different settings demand different specifications:

• Coastal areas: Prioritize enhanced corrosion resistance
• Bushfire-prone regions: Consider non-combustible components
• High-visibility locations: Factor aesthetic considerations
• Remote properties: Value durability over convenience

3. Consider Installation Practicalities

Be realistic about your installation capabilities:

• Weight affects handling ease during installation
• Rigidity impacts the number of support posts required
• Edge treatment affects safety during handling
• Roll dimensions determine joining requirements

4. Match to Your Time Horizon

Different projects have different longevity requirements:

• Permanent installations: Invest in premium materials
• Medium-term projects (2-5 years): Standard galvanized products
• Temporary needs: Budget options may suffice
• Staged development: Consider future expansion compatibility

5. Budget Appropriately

Include these often-overlooked costs:

• Supporting posts and bracing
• Appropriate fasteners and tensioning tools
• Access points and gates
• Ground anchoring systems for predator resistance

Conclusion: Finding the Best Chicken Wire and Fencing for Your Chickens

The best chicken wire for your property isn’t necessarily the most expensive or heaviest-gauge option—it’s the one that reliably addresses your specific threats within your budget constraints. Whether you need the best fencing for a chicken run, the ideal poultry netting for a coop roof, or the best chicken fence to keep out predators, success comes from matching specifications to your unique situation. By prioritizing your actual needs over marketing claims, understanding the real-world implications of specifications, and focusing on application-specific requirements, you’ll find the best wire for chicken coops that becomes an essential element in your Australian property management system.

Remember that effective animal management combines appropriate materials with proper installation techniques. Even premium chicken wire fails if improperly tensioned or inadequately supported. When evaluating options, consider the entire system including posts, fasteners, and access points.

For most Australian chicken keepers, the ideal approach starts with identifying your primary protection priority, finding the best fencing for chickens that addresses that concern excellently, and then evaluating its performance for secondary requirements. This ensures your investment in the best poultry netting delivers value where it matters most—in the security and productivity that transforms your chicken-keeping endeavours into a sustainable enterprise.

This guide is provided for informational purposes only. Always consult with qualified fencing specialists before making purchasing decisions. Pricing information is approximate and subject to change.