Canberra Business Hubs & Office Spaces: Perks, Facilities and More

Looking for Canberra’s business hubs & coworking spaces but unsure where to start with your plethora of options? Did you know Canberra has seen a 72% increase in demand for coworking spaces in the past year? Freelancers, remote workers, and small businesses are all moving toward flexible workspaces to lower costs while maintaining credibility. 

Premium locations, such as coworking spaces in Barton and Canberra Central are popular amongst businesses wanting a hot desk or dedicated desk, but it takes a keen eye to understand which one will give you the most bang for your buck!

Let's dive deep into some perks and facilities you should look for in your coworking space.

What Services Should be Included in My Coworking Space?

Coworking desks should be more than furniture in an office building. The flexible workspace industry is thriving, but many lack the critical infrastructure to enhance your business operations and are unable to provide a commercial advantage.

To separate yourself from the pack and make a strategic investment, carefully observe what different companies have to offer.

What is included in the best coworking memberships?

Fast and secure Wi-Fi:

Up to 55% of businesses will prioritise data security and accelerate tech consolidation to develop robust cybersecurity measures, and so should you. Most coworking spaces in Canberra or anywhere use shared bandwidth for their internet, and this can easily be hacked.

The best coworking spaces offer unique passwords, VLANs and VPNs, all while maintaining a very high speed.

Team support:

Thought coworking spaces don't offer team support? Think again.

The best flexible workspaces in Canberra include a dedicated receptionist to answer your business calls, secretarial assistance to tackle a range of tasks, and onsite IT support to ensure you don't experience technical difficulties.

Business registration & mail forwarding:

Legally register your business address as the coworking space location and enjoy seamless mail forwarding to an address of your choice. Leverage the branding advantage of having a premium address on your website and business cards.

Free coffee & tea:

You're going to be working at your coworking space often, so why not select the one with unlimited refreshments?

Lockable storage:

Regardless of the environment being full of other professionals, it's a good idea to ensure your coworking options include a safe storage space for your personal belongings.

Phone booths:

Privacy and security are key when taking important phone calls. All coworking spaces should include private phone booths with a soundproof design.

Meeting rooms:

Client meetings and presentations shouldn't be held at your hot desk or permanent desk. Meeting rooms with an impressive design and state-of-the-art technology are more likely to give your business an established image, along with productivity benefits.

Networking opportunities:

Building genuine relationships is a major benefit of coworking spaces. Ensure your flexible workspace has events and workshops that promote getting to know one another professionally.

Being surrounded by like-minded individuals can lead to new business opportunities or simply a valuable connection that can open new doors.

What are The Best Coworking Spaces in Canberra?

Other than having quality services and amenities, the best coworking spaces are defined by phenomenal locations.

The Nishi Building

Situated in the hustle and bustle of Canberra Central, the Nishi Building is home to extraordinary shared workspaces.

Being in the business district of Canberra, businesses in this location accentuate their branding amongst clients and talent. The complex includes a hotel, cinema, gym, yoga, library, salon, cafe, and an underground car park for your convenience.

At the Nishi Building, you will enjoy stellar views of Lake Burley Griffin, the Museum of Australia, Telstra Tower and the new Parliament House. Thanks to its central location, you are surrounded by many amenities and are exposed to various industries.

Neighbouring industries:

• Government offices

• Law firms

• Financial services

• Technology and innovation hubs

• Accounting offices

• Professional service providers

Whether you are hot desking or using a permanent desk, the Nishi building is fully equipped with everything a business needs to begin operating within minutes of signing up. With a strong focus on customer service, every small business or large corporation is assisted by the onsite support team so you can focus on running your business.

It is a workspace designed for productivity and focus.

Hot desks pricing: $215.20 per month

Dedicated desks pricing: $360 per month

Fully furnished: Yes

Technology equipped: Yes

Team support & mail forwarding: Yes

Fast and secure internet: Yes

Meeting rooms and boardrooms: Yes

Pantry: Yes

Customer service: Outstanding

Virtual offices: Yes

Flexible contracts: Yes (starting from one month)

Find out more about coworking spaces at the Nishi Building.

The Realm

Barton's proximity to the parliamentary triangle and the city center makes it easily accessible for clients and stakeholders. The architecture of this area is often characterised by elegant and well-maintained buildings, contributing to a visually appealing and sophisticated atmosphere.

The Realm is an A-grade office tower with phenomenal coworking spaces. Being in a government-centric area, the building is known for its security and stability, which can be appealing to businesses seeking a reliable and safe location.

Despite its professional focus, Barton is close to cultural institutions, parks, and recreational areas, offering a balanced work-life environment for employees and clients. Being in close proximity to the National Gallery of Australia, the National Library, and vibrant parks makes for a great place to relax during your break.

Neighbouring industries:

• Professional service firms such as McKinsey & Company and Synergy Group Australia

• Think tanks and research institutions such as the Centre for International Governance Innovation and the Australian National University

• Consulting groups such as Sententia Consulting and Competition Consulting Asia

• Recruitment services

• Tech and innovation

• Startups and investors

Hot desks: $208 per month

Dedicated desks: $360 per month

Fully furnished: Yes

Technology equipped: Yes

Team support & mail forwarding: Yes

Fast and secure internet: Yes

Meeting rooms and boardrooms: Yes

Pantry: Yes

Customer service: Outstanding

Virtual offices: Yes

Global network and location: Yes

Flexible contracts: Yes (starting from one month)

Learn more about coworking spaces at The Realm, Barton.

(Related: Coworking Space Guide 2023)