Best BBQ Grill Under $500 Australia
You don't need to spend a grand to get a solid BBQ in Australia. The sub-$500 range covers everything from compact two-burner gas grills to decent-sized four-burner units that handle weekend entertaining. The key is knowing which brands hold up after a couple of Aussie summers and which ones rust out by March.
Buying Guide: What to Look For
- 1Look for porcelain-coated or cast iron cooking plates — bare steel grates corrode fast in coastal and humid climates across Australia.
- 2A two-burner is fine for couples or small families; step up to four burners if you regularly cook for 6+ people at once.
- 3Check the BTU rating relative to cooking area — anything below 8,000 BTU per burner struggles to sear properly on windy days.
- 4Side burners sound great but add $80-120 to the price and most people rarely use them — skip it if you're budget-conscious.
- 5Bunnings and BBQs Galore run clearance sales at the end of summer (Feb-March) — you can often snag a $500 grill for $350.
Top 5 BBQ & Outdoor Picks for Australia
Weber
Weber Q2200 Gas Grill
| burners | 1 main burner |
| btu | 12,000 BTU |
| cookingArea | 2,368 cm² |
| fuelType | LPG gas |
| weight | 24 kg |
Pros
- Porcelain-enamelled cast aluminium lid and body
- Split cooking grates for direct and indirect heat zones
- Compact footprint suits balconies and small patios
- Strong resale value if you upgrade later
Cons
- Smaller cooking area than similarly-priced 4-burner options
- Stand sold separately, adding $80-120 to total cost
Verdict
Best overall build quality and heat control under $500, with a porcelain-enamelled lid that resists rust for years.
Gasmate
Gasmate Specialist 4-Burner BBQ
| burners | 4 main + 1 side |
| btu | 48,000 BTU total |
| cookingArea | 3,200 cm² |
| fuelType | LPG gas |
| weight | 42 kg |
Pros
- Large 4-burner cooking area suits groups of 8+
- Porcelain-coated cast iron plates and grills included
- Side burner for sauces and onions
- Replacement parts readily available at Bunnings
Cons
- Heavier and bulkier than compact alternatives
- Assembly takes 60-90 minutes out of the box
Verdict
Most cooking space you can get under $500 with solid Australian brand support and easy part replacement.
Weber
Weber Q1200 Gas Grill
| burners | 1 main burner |
| btu | 8,500 BTU |
| cookingArea | 1,806 cm² |
| fuelType | LPG gas |
| weight | 13.2 kg |
Pros
- Lightweight at 13 kg — easy to move and store
- Porcelain-enamelled lid and body resist rust
- Push-button ignition works reliably every time
- Excellent heat distribution across the single burner
Cons
- Too small for entertaining more than 3-4 people
- No built-in thermometer in the lid
Verdict
The best compact BBQ under $400 for balconies, camping prep, or anyone cooking for 1-3 people.
Jumbuck
Jumbuck 4-Burner Hooded BBQ
| burners | 4 main burners |
| btu | 40,000 BTU total |
| cookingArea | 2,800 cm² |
| fuelType | LPG gas |
| weight | 35 kg |
Pros
- Often under $250 at Bunnings
- Four burners with independent controls
- Includes warming rack and side tables
- Straightforward assembly with clear instructions
Cons
- Thinner steel body shows rust faster than Weber or Gasmate
- Burners may need replacement after 2-3 years of regular use
Verdict
Lowest-priced 4-burner option from Bunnings' house brand — solid starter grill if you keep it covered.
Matador
Matador Titan 4-Burner BBQ
| burners | 4 main + 1 side |
| btu | 46,000 BTU total |
| cookingArea | 3,000 cm² |
| fuelType | LPG gas |
| weight | 39 kg |
Pros
- Thicker gauge steel body than entry-level Bunnings options
- Cast iron flat plate and grill combo included
- Electronic ignition on each burner
- Side burner included at this price point
Cons
- Limited availability outside Bunnings stores
- Drip tray design could be deeper for easier cleaning
Verdict
A mid-range Bunnings exclusive that punches above its price with better steel gauge than Jumbuck.
Editor's Note
At this price point in Australia, Weber's Spirit range and Gasmate's Specialist series offer the best long-term value. Jumbuck and Matador units from Bunnings are tempting at $200-300 but their thinner steel bodies typically show rust within 18 months, especially if stored outdoors uncovered. If you're near the coast, budget an extra $30-50 for a fitted cover.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best BBQ grill under $500 in Australia?
The Weber Q2200 and Gasmate Specialist 4-Burner are widely regarded as the best options under $500 AUD. Weber offers superior build quality and heat retention, while Gasmate gives you more cooking space for the price.
Is a 2-burner or 4-burner BBQ better for the price?
A 2-burner BBQ under $300 suits 1-4 people and is easier to store. A 4-burner between $350-500 is better if you entertain regularly or cook different foods at different temperatures simultaneously.
How long do budget BBQ grills last in Australia?
With a fitted cover and basic cleaning, a quality budget BBQ from Weber or Gasmate lasts 5-8 years in Australia. Cheaper unbranded units often show rust and burner degradation within 1-2 years, especially in coastal areas.
Where is the cheapest place to buy a BBQ in Australia?
Bunnings, BBQs Galore, and Amazon Australia regularly compete on price. End-of-summer sales in February and March offer the deepest discounts, often 20-40% off retail across all retailers.
Affiliate disclosure: This guide contains affiliate links. If you purchase via our links, AUPicks may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This does not influence our rankings — all picks are based on genuine research.