Hay Shed Prices 2025: Kits, Council Approval and Custom Options in Australia
Looking for a hay shed that actually suits Australian conditions? This guide cuts through the noise with up-to-date pricing, compliant designs, and on-the-ground advice for rural WA, QLD, NSW and beyond. Whether you want a DIY hay shed kit, an open-front hay barn with wide bays, or a council-approved farm shed in a cyclonic region, you’ll find the essentials here—materials, wind ratings, approvals, and what drives cost.
What makes a great hay shed in Australia in 2025?
- Open-front or partially enclosed bays sized for your bales and telehandler/forklift
- Hot-dip galvanised or high-grade galvanised steel frame with C/Z purlins and girts
- Roof sheeting in Colorbond or Zincalume with ridge ventilation to manage humidity
- Correct wind classification to AS/NZS 1170.2, including Cyclonic (Regions C/D) where applicable
- Bird/vermin proofing, adequate eave height (often 4.5–6.0 m), and good drainage
- Fire safety: access for appliances, setback from boundaries, and separation from machinery sheds
How much does a hay shed cost in Australia?
When budgeting for a hay shed, it’s important to consider not only the size and style but also updated pricing in your region. For those exploring broader options, check our comprehensive breakdown of farm shed kit prices Australia 2025 to find the best value for your budget.
Indicative 2025 hay shed prices based on recent steel rates and rural install costs:
- Hay shed kit prices (supply only): approx. $85–$160 per m²
- Installed (kit + erection + footings): approx. $160–$320 per m²
- Common projects land between $45,000 and $160,000 depending on size, wind rating, and finish
These ranges reflect stabilising steel costs reported in the 2024 Australian Steel Market Outlook and demand patterns in the 2024 HIA Outdoor Structures and Home Improvement Report.
Typical scenarios and budget ranges
- 12 m x 18 m x 4.5 m open-front hay shed (non-cyclonic, Zincalume roof):
Kit $22–$35k | Installed $40–$65k - 12 m x 24 m x 5.0 m hay barn with 4 bays, partial side cladding (Region B wind):
Kit $35–$55k | Installed $65–$95k - 18 m x 36 m x 6.0 m open-front hay shed (Region C cyclone-rated, Colorbond roof and gutters):
Kit $95–$135k | Installed $150–$220k
What drives hay shed prices?
- Wind region and importance level (AS/NZS 1170.2 engineering)
- Size, bay spacing (6–8 m typical), and eave height
- Roof form (gable vs skillion) and cladding choice (Colorbond vs Zincalume)
- Footings (soil class, pier depth), site access, and crane time
- Add-ons: bird-proofing, ridge ventilators, insulation blanket, gutters/tanks
Keyword note: If you’re searching “hay shed for sale” or comparing “hay shed prices” across suppliers, always check the wind rating, steel thickness, and connection details—not just the headline kit price.
What are the best shed materials for Perth’s climate?
Perth and regional WA combine high UV, hot summers, and coastal corrosion risks. For long service life, many owners choose Colorbond roofing with galvanised frames and Zincalume walling on non-critical faces to balance cost.
| Feature | Colorbond steel | Zincalume steel |
|---|---|---|
| Finish | Painted, UV-resistant colours | Metallic alloy coating (Al-Zn) |
| Corrosion resistance | Excellent, especially with coastal-rated variants | Very good inland; caution near surf/coastal spray |
| Heat reflectivity | High with light colours; reduces heat gain | High reflectivity in bare finish |
| Aesthetics | Premium look, colour-matched gutters/flashings | Classic rural look, silver-grey |
| Cost | Typically higher | Usually lower |
| Best use | Coastal/urban WA, premium rural builds | Inland farm sheds and budget builds |
Do you need council approval for a hay shed?
Most hay sheds require engineering certification and a building permit. The exact process varies by state, zoning, and size.
How to get council approval for your custom shed in WA
- Confirm planning requirements with your local council (rural zoning often simpler).
- Obtain certified engineering to AS/NZS 1170 series and AS 4100/4600 (structural steel).
- Get a Certificate of Design Compliance (CDC) from a registered building surveyor.
- Lodge a BA1 application (building permit) with site plan, elevations, footing details, and CDC.
- Book required inspections; obtain Occupancy/Completion if applicable.
Added 2024 WA wind-rating compliance notes Ensure your drawings state the correct Wind Region (A, B, C or D), terrain category, shielding, and topographic multiplier. Sites north of Carnarvon trend towards Regions C/D; coastal Pilbara requires cyclone detailing.
QLD and NSW quick notes
- QLD: Cyclone regions (C/D) need cyclone-rated sheds with hold-downs, bracing, and cladding fastener upgrades. Check the Queensland Development Code and local planning overlays.
- NSW: Many rural hay sheds qualify for Complying Development (CDC) if siting/size rules are met; otherwise, seek a DA. Engineering to AS/NZS 1170.2 is mandatory.
Helpful resources: wind region maps and cyclone guidance via ABCB/NCC, regional risk data from the Bureau of Meteorology, and standards catalogue at Standards Australia.
What wind rating does your hay shed need?
Australia uses AS/NZS 1170.2 to determine design wind actions. Designers consider Wind Region (A–D), terrain category, shielding, topography, and building geometry. In cyclonic zones (C/D), sheds need upgraded connections, thicker sheeting in critical zones, and stronger hold-downs.
- Region A: Most southern inland areas (non-cyclonic)
- Region B: Coastal QLD/WA fringes (higher winds)
- Region C/D: Cyclonic North and North-West, including much of coastal QLD and WA Pilbara
Ask for a wind report or engineering schedule with pressures (kPa), cladding fastener patterns, and footing reactions, not just a “wind rated” claim.
How do you size and lay out a hay shed?
- Bale format: Large squares need more eave height; rounds stack differently
- Bay width: 6–8 m is typical; match to loader reach and truck access
- Open-front orientation: Face away from prevailing weather to reduce moisture ingress
- Ventilation: Ridge vents, open eaves, and clear gaps for hot air to escape
- Drainage: Spoon drains, gravel aprons, and guttering to tanks/swales
- Separation: Keep hay separate from machinery sheds to reduce fire risk
Should you buy a DIY hay shed kit or go custom-built?
DIY hay shed kits
- Lowest upfront cost; fast lead times
- Best for standard sizes and non-cyclonic areas
- Requires equipment and install know-how; check warranty conditions
Custom-built hay barns
- Engineered to site wind loads, terrain, and access constraints
- Optimised bay spacing and eave height for your bale format
- Turnkey delivery with footings, erection, and compliance documentation
If you’re comparing hay shed kit prices, ensure the quote lists steel grades, coating thickness, portal sizes, and exact fastener schedule. It’s common for cheaper imports to swap out purlin gauges or reduce hold-down capacity.
Recent Australian hay shed builds (case snapshots)
Wheatbelt WA — 12 x 30 x 5.0 m open-front
- Frame: Galvanised I-beam portals with Z purlins
- Cladding: Colorbond roof, Zincalume side skirts
- Outcome: Reduced weather damage vs prior stack; loader access improved with 7.5 m bays
- Budget: Mid-$80k installed (Region A/B boundary, 2024)
Darling Downs QLD — 18 x 36 x 6.0 m cyclone-rated
- Region C engineering; upgraded screw patterns and hold-downs
- Ridge vent + insulation blanket for humidity control
- Budget: Circa $180k installed (2025)
Hunter NSW — 12 x 24 x 4.8 m with partial side cladding
- CDC approval, concrete piers to rock, 6 m bays
- Shared apron with adjacent machinery shed
- Budget: ~$95k turnkey (2024)
5-Step Buying Guide for Custom Sheds in Australia
- Define capacity: Bale type, annual tonnage, and required throughput.
- Site and wind: Confirm Wind Region, terrain category, and soil class (for footing design).
- Spec materials: Choose Colorbond vs Zincalume, roof form, eave height, and bay spacing.
- Compliance: Seek council-approved sheds WA, CDC/DA in NSW, or local permits in QLD; insist on certified engineering to AS/NZS standards.
- Compare quotes: Line-by-line on steel grade, purlin/girt thickness, connection details, and erection inclusions.
FAQs: Hay sheds in Australia
What’s the difference between a hay shed and a hay barn?
In Australia, both terms are used. A hay shed typically means a roof with open sides or an open front for ventilation and easy access; “hay barn” may imply more cladding or enclosed ends.
Do I need a slab?
Often no. Most hay sheds use concrete piers and a compacted gravel or stabilised base for drainage. A slab may be used near loading areas.
How long does a project take?
Design/approvals 2–8 weeks; manufacture 2–6 weeks; erection 1–4 weeks depending on size and weather.
What about corrosion near the coast?
Specify coastal-grade Colorbond, heavier galvanising, and wash-down-friendly detailing. Increase maintenance frequency.
Are cyclone-rated sheds available in QLD?
Yes—ask for cyclone-rated sheds QLD to Region C/D with certified engineering, upgraded fasteners, and compliant hold-downs.
Can I combine hay storage with farm machinery storage?
Yes, but separate bays and firebreaks are recommended. Many owners build adjacent machinery sheds or add a firewall.
Standards, climate and industry references
- Australian Standards: AS/NZS 1170 series (wind actions), AS 4100/4600 (steel), AS 2870 (footings) — see Standards Australia
- Climate and wind regions: Bureau of Meteorology
- Construction market and steel outlook: Australian Steel Institute (2024 outlook commentary)
- Outdoor structures trends: HIA — 2024 Outdoor Structures and Home Improvement Report
- Builder best practice: Master Builders Australia