Choosing an automatic gate opener for a farm, rural property or driveway in Australia comes down to five questions: how your gate is powered, how many gates you have, how big and heavy they are, which way they open, and how you want to open them. This guide from G-Force Auto Gates – Australian-made 12V gate opener kits built in Melbourne since 2007 – walks you through each one.
1. Solar or mains power?
- Solar – best when there is no power near the gate, which is common on farms and acreage. A 20W solar panel keeps a 12V battery charged, so there is no trenching, cabling or electrician needed.
- Mains – best when there is a power point within reach of the gate. A plug-in transformer charges the 12V battery, and the battery keeps the gate working through short blackouts.
- Both options use the same 12V motor and DC2 control board, so remotes, keypads and push buttons work the same way.
2. Single or double swing gate?
- Single swing kit – one motor for one gate leaf. Includes a mechanical latch option to hold the gate closed in wind or against stock.
- Double swing kit – two motors for a pair of gates that meet in the middle. A centre stop is recommended so both gates close in the same place.
- Already have one G-Force motor? A slave motor unit adds a second gate to a compatible control board.
3. Gate size and weight
G-Force kits suit swing gates up to 350 kg and 3.66 m (12 ft) per leaf, so a double kit covers openings of up to about 7.3 m. Before you buy, check that the gate swings freely by hand, the hinges are in good condition and the gate does not drag or bind – a well-hung gate makes any opener last longer.
4. Inward or outward opening?
Most gates open into the property and use the standard articulated swing arm. If your gate must open outwards – for example where the driveway rises inside the gate – choose the outward opening swing arm set, which is the standard arm plus an extra bar and bolts.
5. How will you open the gate?
- Remotes – keyring remotes for each driver (two included with every kit).
- Wireless keypad – PIN entry for visitors, deliveries and workers without handing out remotes.
- Push buttons – hard-wired or wireless, standard or key-lockable, to open the gate from the house or shed.
DIY or installer?
G-Force kits are designed for DIY installation with basic tools and run on safe 12V low voltage, with manuals and videos on our Installation & Support page. If you would rather not install it yourself, our Need an Installer? page lists independent installers across Australia.
What does a gate opener kit cost?
G-Force kits are sold direct from the manufacturer with prices including GST – see the shop for current prices and delivery costs. Every kit is covered by a 1-year back-to-base warranty in addition to your rights under the Australian Consumer Law.
Quick checklist
- Power: solar (no power at gate) or mains (power point nearby)
- Gates: single or double
- Size: under 350 kg and 3.66 m per leaf
- Direction: inward or outward opening
- Access: extra remotes, keypad or push button?
- Install: DIY or independent installer
Still unsure? Use our Which Kit? guide or free call 1800 111 930 – we are happy to help.