Off-Grid but Online

What’s Inside

You don’t have to choose between modern comfort and self-sufficiency. This book shows you how to build a home that generates its own power, catches its own water, grows its own food — and still has decent WiFi.

Written from real Australian conditions (not American fantasies about Montana cabins), this covers everything from solar system sizing to Starlink installation, from rainwater filtration to composting toilets that don’t make your guests cry.

Who It’s For

• Tree-changers planning a rural move
• Hobby farmers wanting energy independence
• Regional Australians tired of unreliable power and internet
• Anyone who’s Googled “how many solar panels do I need” at 2am

What You’ll Learn

Part 1 — Power: Solar panels, batteries, inverters, generators, and how to size a system that actually works for Australian conditions. Real costs, real brands, real installation stories.

Part 2 — Water: Rainwater harvesting, filtration, greywater recycling, bore water, and the regulations you need to know state by state.

Part 3 — Internet & Communication: Starlink vs NBN vs mobile broadband. What works where, what doesn’t, and how to stay connected from the middle of nowhere.

Part 4 — Food & Garden: Growing food in Australian conditions, food preservation, automated irrigation, and dealing with everything that wants to eat your garden before you do.

Part 5 — The Build: Putting it all together. Budgets, timelines, permits, and the mistakes everyone makes (so you don’t have to).

72,000 words. 24 chapters. Zero fluff.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to go off-grid in Australia in 2026?

A complete off-grid setup in Australia typically costs $50,000–$150,000 depending on your energy needs, water system, and location. The book breaks down every component — solar panels ($4,000–$12,000), battery storage ($8,000–$25,000), water systems ($5,000–$15,000), and internet ($600–$2,000/year) — with real quotes from Australian suppliers and installers.

Can you really go off-grid and still have internet?

Absolutely. Starlink has been a game-changer for rural and remote Australians. The book compares Starlink, NBN fixed wireless, and 4G/5G options for off-grid properties, including real speed tests and reliability data from regional Australia. Most off-grid homes now have better internet than some suburban areas.

What size solar system do I need for off-grid living in Australia?

It depends on your usage, but most Australian off-grid homes need 8–15kW of solar panels and 20–40kWh of battery storage. The book includes a step-by-step sizing calculator based on your appliances, location, and seasonal variation — plus the common mistakes that leave people short on power in winter.

Is off-grid living legal in Australia?

Yes, but regulations vary by state and council. Some areas require you to connect to mains water or sewer even if you have your own systems. The book covers the legal requirements state by state, including building permits, septic system approvals, and water authority requirements.

What’s the best solar battery for off-grid homes in Australia?

The book compares every major battery available in Australia — Tesla Powerwall 3, BYD, Sungrow, Alpha ESS, and more — with real pricing, warranty terms, and performance data. The best choice depends on your budget and system size, but the book gives clear recommendations for different scenarios.

How to Go Off-Grid in Australia: 7 Steps

1. Choose your land wisely — Check council zoning, solar exposure, water availability, and internet coverage before buying
2. Size your solar and battery system — Use the calculator in Chapter 3 to match your energy needs
3. Design your water system — Rainwater tanks, filtration, and greywater recycling sized for your region’s rainfall
4. Sort your internet — Order Starlink or check 4G/5G coverage 3-6 months before you move
5. Plan your food production — Automated irrigation + raised beds can feed a family of four from 50m²
6. Get your permits — Council DA, septic approval, and building permits vary by state
7. Build in stages — Start with power and water, add food production and comfort systems over time