Last updated: 27 September 2026
Quick Answer
Mount an Austral fold down clothesline on a sound wall or ground mount kit, level the brackets at about 1800mm, fit the frame and strut, then thread the polycord evenly. The Clothesline Store explains each step.
Installing a new Austral clothesline at home is easier than you might think, especially when you're equipped with the right instructions, tools, and expert tips.
Whether you've purchased a folding frame clothesline to save outdoor space or are replacing an older model, following the official Austral folding clothesline installation instructions ensures your line is secure, balanced, and long-lasting.
This guide simplifies the process, drawing from Austral's official manual and highlighting key details like bracket placement, line tension, wall clearance, and more. Let's walk through how to professionally install your Austral folding frame clothesline for optimal performance.
Download the official Austral Fold Down Installation PDF
Why Choose an Austral Folding Frame Clothesline?
Austral offers durable folding frame clotheslines built to suit all home types and outdoor spaces. The Austral folding frame is a popular choice thanks to its space-saving folding design, galvanised steel frames and powder-coated finish, smooth arm and strut operation, UV-stable polycord lines, and compatibility with wall and post mounting.
Whether you're mounting to a wall or need a free-standing setup with ground-mount kits, Austral clothesline installation is flexible and reliable.
Video - How to reduce the width of an Austral Fold Down Clothesline
What You'll Need Before You Begin
Before you install your new Austral clothesline, make sure you have:
Tools and Materials
Electric drill and bits, measuring tape, spirit level, pencil for marking, screws and wall plugs (for masonry installation), adjustable wrench or spanner, and the supplied fittings (brackets, bolts, arms, strut, and cord).
Step-by-Step Folding Frame Installation Instructions
The following instructions apply to most Austral folding frame clotheslines, including the Compact, Standard, Addaline, and Slenderline models.
1. Select the Installation Location
Choose a wall or space that allows the frame to fully extend and fold down freely. Make sure the area is flat and structurally sound, offers clearance for the arms and brackets, has direct sunlight for faster drying, and has enough vertical clearance to hang longer items.
Tip: The clothesline height should be approx. 1800mm from the ground.
Important to know: Weatherboard walls need a structural timber support fitted first before the wall brackets are installed.
2. Mark Your Wall Bracket Positions
Use the wall brackets to mark the drilling points on the wall. Ensure both sides are perfectly level using a spirit level. Spacing between the wall brackets should match the full width of your Austral frame.
Refer to the installation instructions page in the PDF for exact model measurements.
3. Drill Holes and Attach the Wall Brackets
Drill into the wall at marked points. Insert wall plugs if mounting to brick or masonry. Secure the brackets using screws and washers.
Ensure the brackets are firm and do not move when you apply pressure.
4. Attach the Folding Frame to the Brackets
Slide the folding frame clothesline arms into the installed brackets. Use the provided bolts or pins to fix the arms in place. Make sure the frame moves freely up and down.
5. Install the Strut and Locking Mechanism
The strut is the tension bar that supports the arms when upright. Attach it securely using the fittings provided. Test the folding function by lifting the frame and hearing the strut lock into place.
6. Thread and Tension the Polycord Line
Thread the polycord through all holes in the frame, weaving through the pattern shown in the instructions. Keep line tension consistent across all rows. Tie off securely once complete.
Pro Tip: If the line sags after first use, it may need to be re-tensioned after a few days.
Folding Clothesline Operation Instructions
Once installed, your Austral folding clothesline is designed to fold up and down with ease.
To fold the unit down, lift the front of the frame gently until the strut disengages, then guide the arms downward until the frame rests flat against the wall or posts.
To raise it again, simply lift the front frame until you hear the locking strut click into place.
These folding clothesline instructions ensure you can operate the unit safely and smoothly, without putting pressure on the lines or brackets. Always make sure all the lines are clear before folding the frame.
Need a Free-Standing Option?
If you can't mount your Austral folding clothesline to a wall, the Austral Ground Mount Kit lets you install it as a free-standing unit in soil or concrete.
Standard kit: for soil. Plated kit: for concrete (bolt-down).
You'll still follow the same steps above, just use the post mounting measurements included in the guide.
Professional Clothesline Installation Service
Austral recommends professional help if your wall surface is fragile or uneven, you're unsure about measurements or mounting strength, you require a customised install in a tight or covered space, or you want guaranteed warranty coverage.
The Clothesline Store offers clothesline installation services that take care of the entire process for you, from delivery to setup.
Our team follows all Austral clothesline installation instructions to the letter.
Maintaining Your Austral Clothesline
Once installed, regular maintenance will help extend the life of your folding frame clothesline. Wipe down all the lines and arms monthly. Check brackets and bolts yearly. Re-tension the cord if it sags. Don't hang overly heavy or wet items that exceed line rating. Cover the unit in harsh weather (if recommended).
Final Thoughts
Installing your new Austral fold down clothesline is simple with the right tools, location, and instructions. Follow the official guide to ensure your folding clothesline performs optimally, whether it's wall-mounted or free-standing. With an easy folding design and options for any space, Austral clotheslines are a reliable choice for modern homes.
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
Find out what to do if your Austral fold down clothesline sags, is hard to open or close, or won't stay up, and learn how to choose the right sized clothesline.
FAQs: Installing an Austral Fold Down Clothesline
How high should an Austral fold down clothesline be mounted?
The clothesline height should be approximately 1800mm from the ground. Refer to the official Austral installation PDF for exact model measurements.
What tools do I need to install an Austral folding frame clothesline?
An electric drill and bits, measuring tape, spirit level, pencil, screws and wall plugs for masonry, an adjustable wrench or spanner, and the supplied fittings.
Can I install an Austral fold down clothesline without a wall?
Yes. The Austral Ground Mount Kit lets you install it as a free-standing unit, with a standard kit for soil and a plated kit for concrete.
Why is my new clothesline line sagging?
Polycord can settle after first use. If the line sags, it may need to be re-tensioned after a few days.
Which Austral models do these instructions cover?
They apply to most Austral folding frame clotheslines, including the Compact, Standard, Addaline, and Slenderline models.
Where can I buy the Austral fold down clothesline?
Online from The Clothesline Store, Australia's largest private clothesline stockist since 2003, with a 4.9 out of 5 star customer rating.
Shipped Direct From Our Warehouse
As Australia's largest private stockholder of clotheslines and accessories, The Clothesline Store ships in-stock items the same or next business day from our own national warehouse, with a 4.9 out of 5 star customer rating.
Clothesline Covers for Your Clothesline
Clothesline covers protect your clothing from the harsh Australian UV rays. A ClevaCover clothesline cover gives your washing high UV protection from the Australian sunlight while it dries, and shelters it from overhead rain, bird droppings and falling leaves, so you can hang your washing out and leave it with confidence.
ClevaCover for fold down clotheslines. Fits Air Dry, Hills Folding Frame, Austral, Eco, Daytek and other fold down brands, mounted on a wall or ground mount legs.
ClevaCover for folding rotary clotheslines. Fits Hills, Austral and Daytek folding rotary clotheslines.
ClevaCover for fixed head rotary clotheslines. Fits Hills Hoist and Austral fixed head rotary clotheslines, giving shade across the whole hanging area.
