BBQ buying guide Australia 2026 — gas vs charcoal, size & setup

Last updated: 2026-09-25 (Australia/Sydney) · Written and reviewed by the Darrah Opens team, Australian home & outdoor specialists.

Quick answer: Choose gas for fast, everyday cooking, charcoal for smoky flavour and weekend cooks, and electric for balconies where flames are not allowed. Allow about one burner per two people, and set the BBQ on a stable, non-combustible surface clear of walls, eaves and overhanging plants.

Choosing a BBQ in Australia comes down to fuel, size, and where you’ll cook. This guide covers gas vs charcoal, burner count, trolley vs portable, placement and safety — with links to Active BBQs in our BBQ collection.

Shop the hub: https://www.darrahopens.com.au/collections/home-garden-bbq

1. Gas vs charcoal vs electric

Gas (LPG) — quick start, controllable heat, weeknight friendly
Charcoal — deeper smoke flavour, more ritual, longer heat-up
Electric — balcony and strata-friendly where open flame is restricted

2. Match burners and cooking area to your household

Count how many you cook for on a normal Saturday, not peak Christmas. Leave zone space so you can sear on one side and finish on indirect heat. A side burner is worth it if you make sauces or boil prawns outdoors.

3. Portable, trolley, or built-in

Portable units suit camping, tailgates and tiny balconies. Trolley BBQs are the Aussie backyard workhorse. Built-in kitchens need bench cut-outs, gas compliance, and weather cover — plan the outdoor kitchen first.

4. Placement, shade and safety

Keep clearance from walls and foliage, use a stable level pad, and store spare gas bottles upright outdoors. Pair the cooking zone with shade that doesn’t trap smoke — shade sails for Australian courtyards and outdoor lounges for summer round out the space.

5. Active BBQ picks to compare

Shortlist from Active products in the BBQ collection:

6. All Active BBQs currently linked

Full collection: Home & Garden → BBQ. Related appliance browsing: Appliances Active product interlinks.

BBQ setup and first-use checklist (2026)

A new BBQ takes about 30 minutes of setup before the first cook. These steps help it last.

Leak test gas fittings: brush soapy water over the hose and regulator connections with the gas on. If bubbles form, turn the gas off and tighten or replace the part before lighting.
Burn off: run the BBQ on high with the hood open for 15–20 minutes to burn off manufacturing oils.
Season the plates: wipe a thin layer of high smoke-point oil over the grill and hotplate, then heat until it stops smoking.
Cover it: once it has cooled, fit a cover that is sized to the BBQ to keep out dust, rain and UV.
Check local rules: follow total fire ban advice and your strata rules for balconies.

Frequently asked questions (2026)

Gas or charcoal BBQ for Australian backyards?

Gas (LPG) lights fast, holds steady heat, and suits weeknight dinners. Charcoal adds smoke flavour for weekends. Many Aussie homes start with a trolley gas BBQ and add a charcoal kettle later.

How many burners do I need?

Two burners cover couples and small balconies. Three to four burners suit families and entertaining, especially if you want a side burner for sauces or a hotplate zone.

Where should I put a BBQ?

On a non-combustible surface with clear ventilation, away from eaves, curtains and low tree cover. Check strata rules for balconies. Shade the cook without trapping fumes — a sail or umbrella helps; see our shade sail guide.

What features matter most?

Even heat, solid lid, useful side shelf, easy-clean grease management, and stable wheels/brakes on trolley models. Cast iron or porcelain-coated grates hold heat; stainless carts resist coastal air better.

Can I BBQ year-round in Australia?

Yes in most climates. Wind shields, a hood, and a covered outdoor area keep winter cooks viable. In cyclone or bushfire-prone areas, follow local fire restrictions.

Do I need to season a new BBQ?

Yes. Seasoning with a thin coat of oil protects cast-iron plates from rust and helps stop food sticking. Burn off manufacturing residue first, then season.

Can I use a BBQ during a total fire ban?

Rules differ by state. Some allow gas BBQs under strict conditions, while solid-fuel BBQs such as charcoal are generally banned. Always check your state fire authority before cooking on a fire ban day.