Compare top-rated lump charcoal, briquettes, and specialty charcoals. Expert reviews and recommendations for Australian BBQ enthusiasts.
Handpicked selection of the best charcoal for every grilling need
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Everything you need to know about choosing the right charcoal
Made from pure hardwood, lump charcoal burns hotter and cleaner than briquettes. Ideal for high-heat searing and adds authentic smoky flavour. Burns faster but produces less ash.
Compressed charcoal mixed with binders for consistent shape and burn. Perfect for long, low-and-slow cooks. More affordable and widely available across Australia.
Premium Japanese white charcoal known for extremely high heat and minimal smoke. Traditional choice for yakitori and high-end grilling. Burns incredibly long.
Eco-friendly alternative made from coconut shells. Burns hot and long with a subtle sweet aroma. Great sustainable choice for environmentally conscious grillers.
Welcome to Best Charcoal Australia, your ultimate resource for finding the perfect charcoal for grilling, smoking, and barbecuing. Whether you're a weekend warrior firing up the barbie for a family gathering or a seasoned pitmaster perfecting your low-and-slow technique, we've got you covered with comprehensive reviews, comparisons, and expert recommendations tailored specifically for the Australian market.
The charcoal you choose directly impacts the flavour, temperature control, and overall success of your cook. Premium lump charcoal burns hotter and cleaner, making it ideal for searing steaks and achieving that perfect crust. Charcoal briquettes offer consistent, long-lasting heat perfect for smoking brisket or slow-cooking ribs over several hours. Specialty options like binchotan (Japanese white charcoal) and coconut shell charcoal cater to specific cooking styles and environmental preferences.
Australian BBQ enthusiasts have access to an excellent range of charcoal products, from locally sourced hardwood lump charcoal to imported premium brands. Our reviews consider factors crucial to Aussie grillers: heat output suitable for our climate, availability through major retailers like Bunnings, BBQ Galore, and Amazon Australia, burn time for those legendary all-day cook-ups, and value for money in Australian dollars.
Understanding the differences between charcoal types helps you make informed decisions. Lump charcoal is pure carbonised wood, free from additives, and favoured by purists for its natural flavour and high heat. Briquettes are manufactured from compressed charcoal dust and binders, offering uniformity and extended burn times. Binchotan, traditionally made from Japanese oak, reaches extreme temperatures while producing minimal smoke—perfect for yakitori and delicate proteins. Coconut shell charcoal represents an eco-friendly alternative, utilising agricultural waste to create efficient, long-burning fuel.
Consider your primary cooking method when selecting charcoal. For quick grilling sessions—steaks, burgers, and snags—opt for fast-lighting lump charcoal that reaches cooking temperature quickly. Planning a 12-hour brisket smoke? Quality briquettes provide the steady, consistent heat you need. High-end restaurants and serious home cooks often invest in binchotan for its exceptional performance with seafood and chicken. Our interactive charcoal quiz analyses your cooking style, budget, and preferences to deliver personalised recommendations.
Maximise your charcoal investment with proper technique. Always use a chimney starter for even lighting without chemical lighter fluid. Create two-zone cooking setups by banking charcoal to one side, giving you both direct and indirect heat options. Store unused charcoal in airtight containers to prevent moisture absorption—humid Australian summers can degrade charcoal quality. Finally, invest in a quality thermometer to monitor your cook rather than relying on guesswork.
Best Charcoal Australia partners with Amazon Australia to bring you competitive prices and reliable delivery across the country. Our product links include detailed specifications, customer reviews, and current pricing to help you make confident purchasing decisions. Whether you're in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, or anywhere in between, quality charcoal is just a click away.
Last updated: 2026. Best Charcoal Australia is an independent review site. We may earn a commission from purchases made through our affiliate links at no additional cost to you.