Keeping backyard chickens in Melbourne is a growing trend, with many households enjoying fresh eggs and a more sustainable lifestyle. Melbourne’s weather, however, can be unpredictable—scorching hot in summer, cool and damp in winter—so your coop needs to handle both extremes. A good chicken coop for Melbourne will offer shade, ventilation, predator protection, and comfort for your hens all year round. This guide covers the best coops available in Australia for Melbourne chicken keepers, all valued at $300+ and designed to last.
Quick Picks
- Best Overall: Somerzby Manor Chicken Coop – Spacious, weather-resistant, and great for medium flocks.
- Best Budget (still $300+): PawHut Wooden Chicken Coop with Run – Affordable, well-ventilated, and compact.
- Best Premium: Omlet Eglu Cube Chicken Coop – Modern, insulated, and perfect for Melbourne’s variable climate.
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing a Chicken Coop in Melbourne
Before buying a chicken coop for Melbourne, consider these important factors:
- Ventilation & Shade: Summer temperatures can soar above 40°C—ensure your coop has shaded areas and cross-ventilation.
- Weatherproofing: Melbourne’s winters bring rain and wind, so look for water-resistant materials and raised floors.
- Predator Protection: Foxes and stray cats are common in both urban and rural areas—secure mesh and locks are essential.
- Space: Allow at least 0.37 m² (4 sq ft) per chicken inside, plus an outdoor run.
- Ease of Cleaning: Removable trays, large doors, and washable surfaces make maintenance easier.
- Durability: UV-resistant plastic or treated timber will hold up better under Melbourne’s strong sun.
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Somerzby Manor Chicken Coop
Who it’s for: Families or hobby keepers with up to 6 hens.
- Spacious interior with two large nesting boxes
- Weatherproof asphalt roof
- Easy access cleaning doors
- Predator-proof wire mesh
Pros: Sturdy, attractive, plenty of space
Cons: Requires some assembly
Final Verdict: A great all-rounder for Melbourne’s varied climate.
2. PawHut Wooden Chicken Coop with Run
Who it’s for: Small-flock keepers seeking a budget-friendly but functional coop.
- Compact design for urban backyards
- Weather-treated timber
- Wire-enclosed run
- Slide-out droppings tray
Pros: Affordable, good airflow, easy to clean
Cons: Best for 2–3 hens only
Final Verdict: Ideal for Melbourne suburbs with small flocks.
3. Omlet Eglu Cube Chicken Coop
Who it’s for: Keepers wanting low-maintenance and superior predator protection.
- UV-resistant, insulated plastic
- Holds up to 10 bantams or 6 large hens
- Predator-proof skirt
- Quick-clean removable tray
Pros: Easy to clean, secure, long-lasting
Cons: Premium price
Final Verdict: Perfect for year-round use in Melbourne’s weather extremes.
4. Coops & Cages Rhode Island Chicken Coop
Who it’s for: Those wanting a stylish timber coop for medium flocks.
- Weather-treated pine construction
- Two large nesting boxes
- Multiple access points
- Wire mesh run
Pros: Attractive, roomy, functional
Cons: Requires regular timber maintenance
Final Verdict: A solid, stylish choice for Melbourne backyards.
5. Green Frog Designs Plastic Chicken House
Who it’s for: Eco-conscious keepers wanting minimal upkeep.
- Made from recycled plastic
- Houses 4–6 hens
- Lift-off roof for cleaning
- Ventilation slots to prevent dampness
Pros: Sustainable, easy to clean, rot-proof
Cons: Less insulation than thick timber
Final Verdict: A durable and low-maintenance option for Melbourne’s weather.
Comparison Table
| Name | Key Features | Capacity | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Somerzby Manor | Spacious, weatherproof timber | Up to 6 hens | View |
| PawHut Wooden Coop | Compact, weather-treated timber | 2–3 hens | View |
| Omlet Eglu Cube | Plastic, insulated, predator-proof | 6–10 hens | View |
| Rhode Island Coop | Stylish timber, large run | 4–6 hens | View |
| Green Frog Plastic Coop | Recycled plastic, eco-friendly | 4–6 hens | View |
FAQ
Do I need shade for my coop in Melbourne?
Yes—shade is crucial during summer to prevent overheating and heat stress in hens.
What predators should I protect against?
Foxes are common, even in urban areas, and snakes may be a concern in rural zones—secure wire mesh and strong locks are a must.
How often should I clean the coop?
Weekly spot-cleaning and monthly deep cleaning work well for most Melbourne keepers.
Should I insulate my coop?
Insulation helps in winter, but ventilation is more important in summer—ensure both are balanced.
Conclusion
Melbourne chicken keepers need coops that can handle both hot summers and cool, wet winters. The Somerzby Manor is a great all-rounder, the Omlet Eglu Cube offers top-tier predator protection and low maintenance, and the PawHut Wooden Coop is ideal for smaller suburban spaces. Choose one that fits your flock size and yard, and your hens will thrive year-round.
Bonus for Coop Owners
Want step-by-step guidance on building and maintaining a chicken coop? Get Backyard Eggs now and start your clean, quiet coop the right way. You’ll learn noise and smell control, beginner-friendly care routines, and more.