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Leasing office space is one of the most critical decisions for your business. If you can get it right, then it fuels growth; get it wrong, and it can drain cash flow, limit flexibility, or even trap you in a bad contract.
As a Canberra-based coworking and serviced office provider, we’ve seen businesses make the same costly mistakes when signing leases. This guide isn’t a sales pitch; it’s a breakdown of what you must consider before committing to a commercial space in Canberra.
Finding the perfect office space isn’t just about signing the dotted line; it’s about setting up your business for growth, productivity, and professionalism. But how do you narrow it down? Well, in this blog, we will walk you through 10 key things to look for before you commit to an office lease.
Every suburb in Canberra has its own energy, and where you decide to set up can say a lot about your business. The city centre, often known as the Civic by the locals, is where everything comes together. It’s buzzing with a mix of government departments, creative studios, and professional firms. So, being close to Bunda Street, Garema Place, and City Walk doesn’t just mean good foot traffic; it also means your clients and team can reach you with more ease.
If your business leans into creativity or has a boutique vibe, you might feel more at home in Braddon. You see, it has got that modern edge, with a thriving startup culture, cafes on every corner, and a younger crowd that brings energy to the area.
Then there’s Barton, just a short distance from the Parliamentary Triangle. It’s quiet, polished, and ideal for those working closely with government agencies. This is the place to be if your business needs to stay connected to federal departments.
Lastly, if your focus is on something more hands-on like a trade, warehousing or logistics, then Fyshwick gives you the space, practicality, and affordability you’re after, even if it’s a little further from the city’s centre.
Expert Insight: If your team lives in Gungahlin or Belconnen, the Civic area offers light rail access, easing commute times and reducing absenteeism.
Office size isn’t just about how many desks it can fit in a room. It’s also about how the space makes your team feel while they work. While some businesses thrive in open-plan spaces where everyone’s chatting and collaborating, others need quiet corners or private offices for confidential meetings. And then there are the hybrid spaces, perfect when you want a bit of both, or if your team isn’t all in every day.
Match the Plan to Your Space
Expert Insight: Some older buildings in the city centre have awkward floorplates, which is why more and more people are opting for flexible serviced offices instead.
It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of moving into a new office. But while the space might look perfect on the surface, the lease details can hide a few bumps down the road. Also, try to look beyond the rent; be clear on extras like cleaning, maintenance, or fit-out costs, as these can add up fast if they’re not included upfront. That’s why it pays to have clarity from the start.
Loopholes in commercial leases:
Expert Insight: Many local businesses in Canberra are leaning towards serviced offices for exactly this reason, because everything’s upfront, bundled, and transparent, no hidden surprises.
A well-equipped office can boost morale and make clients feel valued. Think beyond just desks and chairs. Always look for something extra, like soundproof meeting rooms and strong Wi-Fi, because all of it adds to a positive work experience. If your office building locks bathrooms by 6 pm or doesn’t offer 24/7 access, it means they are not suitable for a business with flexible hours or international teams.
Expert Insight: Some older buildings lack modern surveillance systems. Always ask about on-site CCTV and after-hours incident response.
Business is dynamic, so your office should be too. If you’re scaling quickly, serviced offices can be lifesavers; they let you add desks and rooms without the hassle of a long-term lease. If you’re after a traditional lease, check if you can negotiate options to expand into adjacent spaces as your team grows.
Check if the Space Can Grow With Your Business
Expert Insight: You don’t want to move again in a year, so negotiate first rights on adjacent office suites so you can expand without relocating.
Leases are legal documents; although they might look simple, they are complex and full of terms that can catch you out. Before you sign, it’s a smart move to get your commercial lease expertly reviewed.
Review the contract for
Expert Insight: Hire a commercial lease solicitor (~$1,500). It might save you thousands.
If you want a simple, hassle-free solution, serviced offices offer a compelling choice. They come fully equipped with desks, high-speed internet, cleaning, and reception services. Plus, flexible lease terms mean you’re not locked in for years. Right here in Civic, at Level 1, 88–96 Bunda Street, we’ve created spaces that let businesses get going straight away, with all the professionalism you’d want to impress clients and employees without the headaches of traditional leases.
Some Key Benefits:
When to Avoid
If your business requires heavy customisation (e.g., laboratories or specialised IT infrastructure).
Finding the right office space in Canberra is about more than just four walls. It’s about setting the stage for success, building your brand, and making life easier for your team and clients. And if you’re after a central, flexible, and fully equipped office, you might be surprised what’s already waiting upstairs in the heart of Civic.
Explore Serviced Offices at City Executive Suites → https://cityexecutivesuites.com.au/office-space/
Need a second opinion on a lease? We’re happy to help; don’t worry, it’s a no-strings-attached kind of consult.