How Much Does Shared Office Space Cost in Melbourne?

Melbourne has always been a hub for innovation, startups, and creative professionals. Over the past few years, the demand for flexible office solutions has grown significantly. Remote work has given people freedom, but it has also highlighted the need for professional environments that balance flexibility with structure. This is where shared office spaces have stepped in.

For freelancers, small businesses, and startups, cost is often the deciding factor when choosing where to work. Having access to a well-equipped office without the commitment of a traditional lease can make a big difference. But how much does shared office space in Melbourne really cost, and what influences the price?

Before diving into numbers, let’s define what shared office space means. Unlike a private commercial lease, a shared office (often called coworking) provides desks or offices within a larger, communal workspace. Members share facilities such as meeting rooms, kitchens, and breakout areas, while enjoying the benefits of a professional environment.

Factors That Influence Shared Office Space Costs in Melbourne

Location

The biggest factor in pricing is location. A desk in Melbourne’s CBD will almost always cost more than one in the suburbs. Areas like Collins Street, Docklands, and Southbank command premium rates due to proximity to major businesses and public transport. Suburbs such as Richmond, St Kilda, and South Yarra often offer slightly lower prices, while still maintaining strong appeal with their mix of lifestyle and accessibility.

Type of Workspace

Shared office space is not one-size-fits-all. Costs vary depending on the style of workspace you choose:

• Hot Desk: A flexible desk you use on a first-come, first-served basis. Ideal for freelancers or those who don’t need a set spot every day.

• Dedicated Desk: A permanent desk reserved for you, offering more consistency and space for your belongings.

• Private Office within a Coworking Space: Great for small teams who want privacy but still enjoy shared amenities.

• Coworking Lounge or Common Area: More casual seating, often suited for those who need occasional access.

  
  

Amenities and Inclusions

Most coworking spaces in Melbourne include basics like Wi-Fi, printing facilities, and kitchen use. However, some offer premium features such as wellness rooms, event spaces, rooftop terraces, and even gyms. Naturally, the more extras included, the higher the cost.

Contract Flexibility

Day passes are the cheapest entry point, while monthly memberships provide better value for regular use. Some providers also offer long-term contracts, which reduce the monthly cost but lock you in. Flexibility has value, if you’re unsure about your long-term needs, short-term memberships might suit you better even if they cost a little more upfront.

Average Costs of Shared Office Space in Melbourne

To give you an idea of what to expect, here are typical price ranges across Melbourne:

• Hot Desks:

  • Day passes usually range between $25–$45 per day.

  • Monthly memberships are often $250–$500 per month, depending on the location and inclusions.

• Dedicated Desks:

  • Expect to pay around $500–$750 per month.

  • Premium CBD spaces can exceed $800 per month.

• Private Offices within Coworking Hubs:

  • Prices usually start from $1,200 per month for a small 2-person office.

  • Larger team offices can range between $3,000–$6,000+ per month depending on size, fit-out, and location.

• Premium vs Budget Options:

  • Spaces such as WeWork or Hub Australia often sit at the higher end, offering prestige addresses and premium facilities.

  • Smaller boutique coworking hubs or suburban options may provide hot desks for under $300 per month, appealing to budget-conscious professionals.

  
  

Comparing Popular Shared Office Providers in Melbourne

Melbourne’s coworking scene is diverse. Here’s a quick look at some popular providers:

• WeWork (Multiple CBD Locations): Known for sleek design, global access, and strong community events. Costs are on the higher side, but you get international brand recognition.

• Spaces (Collins Street, Richmond, and South Yarra): A mix of corporate and creative style with flexible plans for individuals and teams.

• Hub Australia (CBD and South Melbourne): Focuses on premium spaces with sustainability at the core. Offers lounges, cafés, and wellness features.

• The Commons (South Yarra, Collingwood): Popular with startups and creatives. Known for stylish interiors and strong community culture.

• JustCo (CBD): A Singaporean brand offering modern, central locations with flexible memberships.

  
  

Local and boutique options also hold strong appeal. Suburban creative hubs in areas like Brunswick or St Kilda often provide more affordable rates while catering to niche industries, such as design or media.

Hidden Costs to Watch Out For

Shared office pricing can look straightforward, but it’s worth asking about extra charges. Common hidden costs include:

• Meeting Rooms: Some spaces include limited hours, with extra bookings charged by the hour.

• Printing and Scanning: Basic allocations are included, but heavy users may pay extra.

• Mail Handling: Forwarding services or package storage may attract small fees.

• Security Deposits or Joining Fees: Some providers require upfront payments that add to initial costs.

• 
  

Clarifying these details before signing up avoids surprises down the track.

Cost vs Value: What’s Worth Paying Extra For?

Price isn’t the only factor, value matters too. Paying slightly more can deliver real benefits, such as:

• Networking Opportunities: Many coworking hubs host community events, workshops, and networking nights. At EIBC, these are part of the Entrepreneur Events program.

• Prestige Locations: A Collins Street address may strengthen your business image, especially if clients regularly visit.

• Wellness and Lifestyle Perks: Gyms, meditation rooms, or rooftop terraces may improve wellbeing and productivity.

• Professional Environment: A well-designed office can help separate home from work, supporting focus and efficiency.

  
  

It’s worth weighing up whether these features align with your personal or business goals.

Tips for Finding the Right Shared Office in Melbourne

Choosing the right space isn’t just about cost. Here are some practical tips:

• Define Your Budget and Non-Negotiables: Decide what’s essential (e.g., location, private desk, meeting room hours).

• Tour Multiple Spaces: Pictures online rarely tell the full story, touring gives you a sense of the atmosphere and community.

• Ask About Trials: Many providers offer day passes or trial memberships. Testing before committing helps avoid mismatched expectations.

• Read Reviews: Online reviews can reveal how reliable internet is, how responsive management is, or how strong the community really feels.

• Consider Your Work Style: Some spaces are vibrant and busy, while others are quieter. Think about what environment helps you perform best.

  
  

Conclusion

Shared office spaces in Melbourne cater to a wide range of professionals and budgets. From hot desks under $300 a month in creative suburbs to private offices worth several thousand dollars in the CBD, the options are broad. The right choice depends on balancing cost with the facilities and community that will help your business thrive.

Rather than chasing the cheapest rate, consider what features will support your goals and growth. Whether it’s networking opportunities, a prestigious address, or flexible contract terms, the right office can pay off far beyond the monthly fee.

If you’re exploring coworking options in Melbourne, take the time to compare providers, tour spaces, and ask the right questions. The right environment could be the spark that fuels your productivity and success.

If you’re exploring coworking options in Melbourne, take the time to compare providers, tour spaces, and ask the right questions. For more details, see The Ultimate Guide to Coworking Spaces in Melbourne.

Ready to experience coworking in Melbourne? Book a tour of our shared office spaces today and discover flexible hot desks, dedicated desks, and private offices designed to help your business thrive.

FAQs

How much is a hot desk in Melbourne?

Hot desks typically range from $25–$45 per day or $250–$500 per month, depending on location and facilities.

Is coworking cheaper than renting a private office?

Yes. Traditional leases involve long-term commitments and extra overheads like utilities and fit-outs. Coworking spaces bundle these into one membership, making them more cost-effective for smaller teams.

Are there affordable coworking options outside the CBD?

Absolutely. Suburban areas like Richmond, St Kilda, and Brunswick often offer lower rates while still being well-connected to the city.

Do coworking spaces in Melbourne offer 24/7 access?

Many premium providers allow round-the-clock access, but budget options may limit hours. Always check access terms before signing up.

Can I scale up if my team grows?

Yes. Most coworking providers allow you to upgrade from a hot desk to a private office or expand into larger spaces as your business grows.