What is a Coworking Space in Australia?
A coworking space in Australia is a shared office environment where individuals and businesses from various industries can work together in a professional and collaborative setting. These spaces are designed to provide a flexible, cost-effective alternative to traditional office leases, catering to startups, freelancers, small businesses, and even larger corporations.
Explore why coworking spaces are preferred over working from home in this insightful article: 8 Reasons Why Coworking Spaces Are Better Than Working from Home.
What to Look for in Your Coworking Space
Coworking spaces should propel your tech startup toward success - it's more than just a desk with a chair. Let's delve into the lifeblood of a thriving shared workspace as an alternative to the traditional office space.
Advanced Technology
As obvious as it is, a tech startup will need advanced technology to accelerate its operations.
Here is what you should look for.
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Fast & secure Wi-Fi:
A fast connection is essential, but security is arguably more important in our current era where cybersecurity is of greater concern. Tech startups, often heavily reliant on data-intensive processes and real-time interactions, benefit immensely from tech coworking spaces equipped with high-speed internet.
This fundamental amenity not only supports daily operations but also enhances the overall productivity and competitiveness of startups, empowering them to stay ahead in the fast-paced tech landscape.
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Custom security:
Every company has different needs, and your tech startup is no different. Ensure your flexible workspace has the capability of enabling multiple internet configurations such as a VLAN, VPN, DMZ or a dedicated bandwidth to support your security obligations.
Keep in mind that not all coworking spaces offer custom internet connections, and it's important to enquire if it's available.
Meeting Spaces & Breakout Areas
Whether it's an important meeting with prospective clients or you simply need a quiet space to focus, extra space should be a must in your criteria.
For example, coworking at Servcorp gives you access to fully furnished meeting rooms with video conferencing technology for presenting and meeting needs. Meeting rooms can be used for various occasions and are great for
Having Options
It's always beneficial to have options.
Your ideal coworking provider should have:
Even though your business might not need these workspace solutions in the present, having the capability to seamlessly upscale or downsize your operations without moving locations can save plenty of costs and time.
Top Coworking Spaces in Sydney
Sitting just behind Melbourne, the city of Sydney has around 72 coworking spaces available, and the options are significantly broad. To ensure comprehensive coverage across Sydney, we have selected the top three coworking spaces in the city's bustling business districts.
Chifley Tower
Nestled in the heart of Sydney's vibrant central business district, coworking at Chifley Tower offers a strategic location that transcends the ordinary. This iconic skyscraper, piercing the city skyline, provides not just office space but an elevated experience that harmonizes work and inspiration.
Chifley Tower 2 is a convenient five-minute walk from Martin Place and Wynyard train stations, along with the same distance from bus stops and the ferry. The prestigious A-grade office tower has a 5-level car park, serviced building concierge, lock-up bike facilities, and a 24/7 onsite security team.
As a business with a coworking space in this tower, you will enjoy plenty of natural light with floor-to-ceiling windows to promote a pleasant workspace. Being a premium location, you're in close proximity to prominent cultural landmarks like the Opera House and Royal Botanic Gardens.
Coworking spaces at the Chifley Tower can be accessed 24/7 and offer flexible contracts to accommodate all business needs. Companies can easily upscale by occupying more hot desks or opting for dedicated desks if they prefer permanent space.
Find out more about coworking spaces at Level 29, Chifley Tower, Sydney.
Hot Desks: Yes
Dedicated Desks: Yes
Google Reviews: 4.2 Stars
100 Mount Street
North Sydney is another bustling business district home to the finance, banking, IT, telecommunications, and other professional industries.
This area of the CBD has experienced steep growth in recent years, which has been accompanied by the development of new Grade-A office towers and coworking spaces. Of those developments, 100 Mount Street is unquestionably one of the best locations in North Sydney for Coworking.
The office tower was completed in 2019, and its innovative cross-braced structure makes it the most aesthetically pleasing designed tower. Those with a coworking space at Mount Street have convenient access to an array of speciality shops, supermarkets and food outlets close by.
Since it's situated so close to the Sydney CBD, you have easy access to major financial and commercial centres. This proximity also facilitates excellent networking opportunities, client meetings and collaboration opportunities.
As an employee or business with a coworking space in this tower, you'll be working amongst tenants such as Chanel, NBN Co and NextGen, which can enhance the brand image of anyone working there.
It conveys professionalism and success, which is advantageous for attracting clients and top talent.
Proximity to established businesses within prime addresses presents startups with invaluable opportunities for collaboration and growth. For example, being situated near well-established companies could lead to organic networking opportunities that may not have been possible otherwise. These interactions might result in strategic alliances or collaborations that propel the startup's growth trajectory.
Newer buildings like Mount Street also take pride in their 5.5-star NABERS energy rating, along with its 4.5-star NABERS water and 4-star indoor environment rating.
Find out more about coworking spaces at Level 25, 100 Mount Street, North Sydney.
Hot Desks: Yes
Dedicated Desks: Yes
Google Reviews: 4.5 Stars
Parramatta Square
Often referred to as Sydney's "second CBD," the Parramatta area has undergone a major transformation.
And it's not over yet.
A strategic plan that covers long-term economic development, environmental sustainability, and innovation is spanning till 2038 to ensure constant improvement. This makes Parramatta an exciting space and prospect for businesses looking to join a location with exponential growth - where better, than coworking at Parramatta Square.
Parramatta Square is the best connected flexible workspace in Sydney, with amazing aesthetics, Wi-Fi security, location, and community.
The 45,000 square meters of commercial space is home to childcare facilities, a central atrium, three basement parking levels, and plenty of retail.
The connectivity of coworking from Parramatta Square cannot be understated. Whether you decide to travel by car, train, bus or ferry, all methods of transport are less than five minutes away and frequent. You're also only moments away from the Westfield shopping centre, restaurants, cafes, banks, gyms, and just about everything you could need at a workspace.
From a business perspective, you are surrounded by major tenants such as PWC, ANZ, Deloitte and many other startups in the coworking spaces. Tech startups often find themselves in need of strategic partnerships or funding from investors who understand their industry-specific challenges and opportunities.
By working alongside other entrepreneurs and established businesses in similar fields within a coworking space setting, there are increased chances of forming valuable collaborations.
Find out more about coworking spaces at Level 14, 3 Parramatta Square, Sydney.
Hot Desks: Yes
Dedicated Desks: Yes
Google Reviews: 4.6 Stars
Macquarie Park
Nestled in the vibrant hub of Macquarie Park's Research and Development Park, this location is at the epicentre of one of Australia's most coveted business ecosystems, boasting superb transport connectivity.
Seamlessly blending work and leisure, the site is enveloped by picturesque natural landscapes and offers a range of amenities, including a tennis court, heated pool, barbecue area and bike racks, creating an ideal environment for both productivity and relaxation.
As with all of our top coworking spaces for startups, the Avaya House is a superior A-grade building that offers phenomenal views across the Lane Cove National Park. The fully equipped free fitness room is a great space to unwind during your lunch break or after work, and is easily accessible from your coworking space.
This business district is an ideal location for tech startups. Being home to global companies in technology, electronics, and telecommunication industries makes Avaya House a strategic coworking space destination.
If being surrounded by Microsoft, CSIRO, and Optus sounds ideal to your tech startup, then secure a co-working space at the Avaya House. The Avaya House also presents the perfect opportunity for upscaling with serviced offices and gaining the prestige of an established business in a technology-driven precinct.
Find out more about coworking spaces at Level 9, Avaya House, Macquarie Park.
Hot Desks: Yes
Dedicated Desks: Yes
Google Reviews: 4 Stars
Nexus Norwest
The Norwest Business Park is an award-winning architecturally designed premium development that aims to offer world-class office facilities to small businesses.
Coworking spaces at Nexus Norwest are a stroll away from local attractions such as Castle Hill Country Club, The Hills Lodge Hotel, and the Norwest Lake. There are plenty of commercial advantages to be gained by renting a coworking space at Nexus Norwest.
Not only are you positioned amongst large scale corporations such as Subaru and AAMi Insurance, your business has access to enterprise-level amenities without the large price tag. Facilities such as tech-equipped boardrooms, dedicated receptionists, secretarial assistance and onsite IT help are all included in this complete workspace solution.
Although Norwest is 50 minutes from the CBD, it's an ideal location for those who live within the Norwest, Caste Hill, Kellyville, Blacktown and Seven Hills area. The location still has a reputation for being an impressive business park and elevates the brand image of any business.
Find out more about coworking spaces at Level 5, Nexus Norwest, Sydney.
Hot Desks: Yes
Dedicated Desks: Yes
Google Reviews: 4.4 Stars
Bondi Junction
We weren't kidding when we said all business districts with coworking spaces would be covered. Known for being home to one of the best beaches, coworking at Bondi Junction is an entirely different experience.
Coworking spaces here are located away from the hustle and bustle of the CBD while appealing to the lively Eastern suburbs of Sydney. Conveniently, you will be right next door to the Westfield Shopping centre and have access to secure parking.
The Bondi Junction train station and bus interchange are a quick one-minute walk away, and the accompaniment of stunning Bondi Beach views makes this coworking location a treat. Coworking spaces here are ideal for employees or businesses located in:
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Bondi
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North Bondi
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Double Bay
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Waverley
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Dover Heights
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Queens Park
The unique appeal of having access to a professional workspace while being right next to the beach and Westfield shopping centre is why Bondi Junction is the people's favourite coworking space.
Find out more about coworking spaces at Level 22, Westfield Tower, Bondi Junction.
Hot Desks: Yes
Dedicated Desks: Yes
Google Reviews: 4.3 Stars
Benefits of Coworking Spaces for Tech Startups in Australia
Finding a workspace appropriate for tech startups in Australia is challenging. Their requirements are uniquely different, as they need a cost-effective solution while having access to vibrant tech ecosystems. Luckily, there are some quality coworking spaces with flexible memberships and dynamic environments to tick off your checklist.
Here are some of the benefits you can look forward to when selecting a coworking space for your tech startup.
- Cost-effective: We’ve said it many times, but coworking spaces for startups are truly a capital conscious choice. The ability to gain a prestigious address without the high overhead expenses can’t be overlooked.
- Flexibility and scalability: The last thing a small business needs is being tied down by long-term leases that exacerbate their risk levels and cut down on cash. Coworking spaces have flexible membership options, giving you the option to upscale or downsize the amount of workspace or number of services required. Growing your team? Simply rent more hot desks or dedicated desks. Planning on downsizing soon? Have everything your business needs without the concern of needing to commit for extended durations.
- Supportive community: Coworking spaces grew in popularity because of the community factor. Tech startups thrive in such environments, where businesses get to know one another, promote each other and network to gain rich professional connections.
- Professional amenities: Hi-tech coworking spaces for startups are packed with amenities to support your operations. For example, Servcorp offers extremely fast Wi-Fi with customisable firewall security and any desired internet connection, such as VLANs, VPNs, and more. Its coworking spaces have in-house IT support, which is a major bonus for tech companies. Other amenities include meeting rooms equipped with all the tech you need, private phone booths, printing services, and ergonomic desks.
- Enhanced creativity: Coworking spaces are collaborative by nature. The open-space layout makes it easy to bounce ideas around or ask questions spontaneously, enhancing creativity. Rest assured, there are quiet areas for those moments when you need to put your head down.
Why is Coworking Space Important
Coworking spaces are important for professionals seeking flexibility, community, and a fully furnished workspace to support their business endeavours. They are also referred to as shared workspaces and are a popular, cost-effective alternative to traditional office leases.
Flexible workspaces have become important because companies gain a competitive edge from having access to business-enhancing amenities, a community, and technology. They are also quite convenient for the worker who enjoys autonomy and balance. Most coworking spaces offer 24/7 access, and having a workspace outside the home in a professional community is great for networking and mitigating isolation or burnout syndrome.
Overall, coworking spaces are undoubtedly becoming the favourite workspace alternative and it’s no wonder that the industry is booming!
Why Choose a Coworking Space for Your Tech Startup?
Coworking space for startups is an exciting landscape of professional environments that have undergone remarkable transformations. Far more than just a shared workspace, the coworking industry has become a contemporary work culture that fosters collaboration and cost-saving opportunities - especially coworking spaces for tech startups.
But before you choose a startup office space, it's best to have a criterion to ensure you have a balance between function and aesthetics. Australia is full of coworking space companies, but not all provide the same services, and it's pivotal to your business to understand what you receive.
For tips on how to choose the right coworking space, check out this article: How to Choose a Coworking Space: 9 Tips to Consider in 2023
Find Coworking Spaces for Tech Startups
Servcorp has more than 150 coworking spaces to select from that can give your tech startup professional amenities, strategic locations, and membership terms that adapt to you. Join our professional community with like-minded individuals and thrive like never before. So, is a coworking space worth it for your tech startup? Check out the shared office spaces available in your area today.
Whether you're looking for a vibrant community, top-notch amenities, or flexible workspace solutions, there's a coworking space out there that's perfect for your needs. Don't wait any longer – start your search now and unlock the potential of coworking for your tech startup!
FAQs about Coworking Spaces for Tech Startups