Last updated: 27 September 2026
The Clothesline Store - Quick Answer
Mount the Austral RetractAway 100–200mm above head height with the catch level opposite, set posts in concrete 560mm deep, then tension each cord from the middle out. Step-by-step guide from The Clothesline Store.
Considering a new Austral retractable clothesline and want to know how to install it? Then read on! To make sure you enjoy your new clothesline for years to come, it's important to follow these easy-to-understand installation steps.
A well-installed clothesline will function properly, while a faulty setup may cause damage or void your warranty.
Read the Clothesline Installation Instructions First
Before you start, take a moment to carefully read the installation instructions for your new clothesline.
Familiarising yourself with each step ensures a hassle-free clothesline installation and helps you avoid mistakes.
While reviewing the instructions, check the contents of your retractable clothesline box and mark off each item to make sure everything is included.
Also, double-check that you have all the tools you'll need before you begin, so you're fully prepared to get the job done right.
How to Choose the Site and Mounting Option
Choosing the right spot is key! Here's what to keep in mind:
- The RetractAway 40 clothesline has a maximum span of 8m and the RetractAway 50 clothesline can extend up to 10m.
- The minimum extension for both clothesline models is 2m.
- Make sure there's at least 0.5m of clearance on either side of the clothesline for easy access and airflow to help clothes dry better.
Line Height
The recommended retractable clothesline line height is 100–200mm above the user's head.
If accessibility is a concern (especially for those with limited shoulder movement), go with 100mm. If you're installing over a longer span, 200mm might be better to prevent excessive sag.
Retractable Clothesline Installation Essentials
Before you start, double-check that you have everything you need to install your retractable washing line:
Tools: tape measure, spirit level, pencil, scissors/knife, drill with a 10mm drill bit, hammer, shovel, concrete mix, and possibly rebar for extra stability.
Parts: the retractable clothesline, mounting bars, posts, and sockets (if using a post mount).
How to Wall Mount the Austral RetractAway Clothesline
Positioning the Austral Retractable Clothesline
Place your Austral retractable clothesline unit on the wall.
The mounting slots for the clothesline are on each side, and should sit about 200mm above head height. Check that it's level before marking the wall.
Drill 10mm holes where you've marked and use the supplied washers and fasteners to secure the retractable washing line.
Mounting the Catch
Place the catch unit on the opposite wall.
The top of the catch should be 200mm above the user's head height and level with the retractable clothesline.
Drill two 10mm holes and secure the catch in place.
Post Mounting
If you're installing to posts instead of a wall, attach the catch to the clothesline post using the 8x65mm bolts provided.
Don't forget to fit the black plastic end cap on top of the retractable clothesline post.
How to Install the Austral RetractAway Post Kit
Digging the Hole
For post installation, dig a hole with a 200mm diameter and a depth of 560mm (for a standard retractable clothesline installation).
If you're using a ground socket for your retractable clothesline, you'll need to make sure the socket sits just above ground level and the hole is filled with about 100mm of gravel for drainage.
Placing the Post
Install your clothesline post or socket, ensuring the Austral retractable clothes line and catch are facing the right direction.
Pour your concrete mix, keeping it 20mm below the finished ground level.
Use a spirit level to ensure the post is vertical.
Setting the Concrete
Let the concrete set for 48 hours before using your new clothesline. This gives it time to fully cure and ensures stability.
How to Tension the Austral RetractAway Cord
Once your posts are set and the Austral retractable clothesline is securely mounted, you can start tensioning the cord.
Adjust One Line at a Time
Start with the middle line. Un-clip the cord, pull it through until there are only three full rotations left on the drum, then re-clip the cord.
Tensioning the Other Lines
Work your way out to the outer lines.
Follow the same steps to re-clip and tension each cord, trimming the excess cord and tucking it into the Cord Tidy.
You should feel a firm tension once all lines are tightened.
Retracting the Clothes Line Cord
To retract the line back into the retractable clothesline housing:
Unlock the Tension
Switch the Tension Lock to the unlocked position.
Retracting the Line
Gently guide the Draw Arm and cord back into the clothesline unit. If there's too much tension, you can release a bit by turning the Tension Knob clockwise before unlocking the tension.
Important Austral RetractAway Installation Tips
Larger Footings for Stability
Where there is concern about the stability of the ground surrounding the concrete footing (sand, loose or shifting soil etc) or the RetractAway covers a long span, over 6m, a larger concrete footing should be considered. To do this increase the hole size to 250–300mm diameter by 500–700mm deep. Y12 Rebar should be used where the footing depth exceeds the Post Embedment by more than 150mm.
Hammer Drilling
Start slow when drilling into masonry to avoid the drill bit wandering. Use firm pressure and then increase the speed once you've made a small indentation.
Leaning the Post Back
To compensate for the tension and load, you might want to lean the post slightly (around 2–3 degrees). This can help the post remain upright under heavy loads.
Retractable Clothesline Operation and Maintenance Tips
- Hang Long Items at the Ends: Items like sheets or towels can sag near the middle of the line, so try hanging them near the ends for better clearance and drying.
- Watch for Weather: Rain can add extra weight to your washing lines, so remove clothes if bad weather is expected to prevent overloading the line. Wind can also cause damage if left unchecked, so be mindful of heavy winds.
- Socket Cap: If you need to remove the post, use the Socket Cap to protect the socket. Remove it when mowing and keep it handy by hooking it on the cord when not in use.
- Occasionally Re-tension the Cords: Over time, cords may slacken. A quick check and adjustment will keep everything working smoothly.
By following these steps, you'll have your Austral RetractAway clothesline set up in no time and ready to give you years of reliable service.
Austral RetractAway Specifications
Brand: Austral
Models: RetractAway 40, RetractAway 50
Maximum span: 8m (RetractAway 40), 10m (RetractAway 50)
Minimum extension: 2m (both models)
Side clearance: At least 0.5m on either side
Recommended line height: 100–200mm above the user's head
Wall fixing: 10mm drilled holes with supplied washers and fasteners
Post catch fixing: 8x65mm bolts provided
Standard post footing: 200mm diameter by 560mm deep
Larger post footing: 250–300mm diameter by 500–700mm deep (unstable ground or spans over 6m)
Concrete curing time: 48 hours
Professional Clothesline Installation Service
If you're not keen on installing your new clothesline yourself, here at The Clothesline Store we make clothesline installation incredibly easy, with our professional clothesline installation service that ensures your clothesline is set up effortlessly.
Whether you're choosing a fold down mounted, retractable, or a folding rotary clothesline, our expert installers are ready to help across the East Coast of Australia, including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and beyond, covering areas like Geelong, the Gold Coast, and Newcastle for all outdoor clothes line installations.
To book your clothesline installation service, simply select "Yes, Install My Clothesline" (or "Yes, Install and Remove Old Clothesline") when placing your order.
Pick your clothesline, choose the clothesline installation option, and you're on your way to having your new clothesline installed!
Top Tip
Not all clothesline retailers offer clothesline installation services. If clothesline installation or clothesline removal is important to you, make sure these services are available before purchasing!
Want More Size Options? Consider Air Dry
If a standard size doesn't suit your wall, an Air Dry fold down clothesline is 100% Australian made from 100% Australian steel, in a wide range of ready made sizes or made to order for the perfect fit. It's The Clothesline Store's number one fold down pick.
Related Guides from The Clothesline Store
Choosing the Right Sized Clothesline
Best Wall Mounted Clothes Drying Rack
FAQs: Austral RetractAway Clothesline Installation
How far can the Austral RetractAway extend?
The RetractAway 40 has a maximum span of 8m and the RetractAway 50 extends up to 10m. The minimum extension for both is 2m.
What height should a retractable clothesline be installed at?
100–200mm above the user's head. Use 100mm if accessibility is a concern, or 200mm over longer spans to prevent excessive sag.
How deep should the Austral RetractAway post hole be?
A standard hole is 200mm in diameter and 560mm deep. For unstable ground or spans over 6m, increase it to 250–300mm diameter by 500–700mm deep.
How long should the concrete set before using the clothesline?
Let the concrete set for 48 hours before use so it can fully cure.
How do I tension the Austral RetractAway cords?
Start with the middle line. Un-clip the cord, pull it through until three full rotations are left on the drum, then re-clip it. Repeat for the outer lines.
How do I retract the Austral RetractAway line?
Switch the Tension Lock to unlocked, then gently guide the Draw Arm and cord back into the unit.
Can I mount the Austral RetractAway on a weatherboard wall?
Only once structural timber support has been fitted to the wall first.
Where can I buy the Austral RetractAway clothesline?
Online from The Clothesline Store, Australia's largest private clothesline stockist since 2003, with a 4.9 out of 5 star customer rating.
