As taking your work with you where ever you go has become more of the norm these days for international travel, it’s no wonder spaces have popped up to accommodate the digital nomad, where technology is not left behind, but embraced, as one travels the world.
If you are someone who can work remotely, through your laptop and the wonder of the world wide web, shared office spaces are a perfect location for you to be able to keep in contact with your working world whilst still being able to see the rest of the world and in turn extending your travel time, as you can fund it whilst you live it!
What is a co-working space?
A co working space, sometimes called a shared office, or the similar concept of hot desking, started in America and it didn’t take very long for it to filter through Europe and in the last few years, Australia. Once people caught on, it was simple supply on demand as more and more freelancers, casual workers, small start up companies and businesses found it much easier, and more cost effective, to hire a desk than create an entire office space for themselves. The system worked and all over the world you can find all sorts of co working spaces filled with a bunch of different people, all with different skills, incomes, and personalities.
What about Hot Desking?
Hot desking is similar concept where working stations are shuffled around routinely, so you are not at the same space for long. This idea of independent working is used a lot in businesses and organisational environments, where keeping the employees interested and challenged in their working environment is key to productive, happy staff. But if you are a freelancer or casual worker and you don’t have a flat surface or Internet connection at home, then it’s a great idea to find yourself a cozy shared office space and start co working.
Who uses a co working space?
Those individuals who rent a spot in a co working space are people who are redefining the future of working out of an office. Those based in the city will often be freelancers who don’t wish to work from home and can’t afford to set up their own offices. But if you are a traveller in this scenario, you are more likely to be tagged as a ‘digital nomad’. Take a look at our casual jobs for something suitable to a digi-nomad.
Could you do it?
Digital nomads are smarter about efficient use of space whilst travelling and working at the same time. These people can produce quality work regardless of their location. They earn an income, utilizing co working spaces abroad whilst continuing working with clients, for employers back at home, or indeed around the world. They can set own schedule, changing destinations frequently, earning a living on line. Co working spaces have become a natural evolution for a mobile office worker, and any one can do it. Freelancers of all kinds are suited to this kind of work life, web designer, photographer, graphic designer, software developer, a writer or blogger. Then of course there’s the social aspect. Not just a desk and a power socket, you’ll usually find WIFI and printing facilities, conference and meeting rooms, kitchen, lounge, and a growing sense of community and networking. Lots of them have office gatherings, BBQ’s and parties, group meetings and inspirational talks. So, really you are hiring more than just a place to put your lap top and travel mug, co working is a new movement in remote work and the spaces encompass what it means to be working for yourself, independent freedom and creativity. Its challenging, independent, it can be stressful, and very rewarding.
Where can I find a co working space in Australia?
In most major backpacker towns and cities in Australia, you can find a share space somewhere to try for yourself. Forget sitting in Starbucks and wasting your pennies on pricey coffee and banana bread, head to a co working space and immerse yourself in this crusade that can only grow, and embrace the travelling digital world.
Working abroad is one thing. Working for your self, whilst abroad, is another.
Here are a few places in traveller hot spots to spark your interest. Go on, give them a call.
Sydney
Fishburners Ultimo and Darlinghurst
Refreshments and greenery, an inspirational wall and LOTS of people to collaborate or just drink a coffee with.
Heritage warehouse with lots of light, exposed brick and happy people.
Melbourne
A definite community here. Good space and a successful list of Alumni!
Electron Workshop North Melbourne
“A community of excellent humans”. Looks like fun too! Good kitchen, cinema, all in an old Bulla Cream truck workshop.
Brisbane
River City Labs, Fortitude valley, Brisbane, QLD
Lots of spots to work on long tables. Have to be able to love thy neighbour here!
Cairns
Lots of meetings and gatherings in large rooms. Startup programs to take advantage of, and lots of likeminded people.
Sunshine Coast
Share Space Sunshine Coast, QLD
Sleek and white, cool and creative, perfect Sunshine Coast place to be. Situated perfectly in the centre of Maroochydore and just a short walk to the beaches.
Noosa Boardroom Sunshine Coast, QLD
More office rooms than open plan, great for more privacy and concentration.
The Loft Project, Peregian Beach
Byron Bay
A startup innovation & coworking hub in Byron Bay with an awesome community
Perth
Fspace Creative co working Fremantle, Perth
Awesome location, cool art on the walls and a pay as you go scheme.
Adelaide
A cool, funky space with lots of events to enjoy, and you’re there with a bunch of small startups working just as hard as you.
Canberra
Nice and modern; WOTSO WorkSpace also have locations in Sydney and on the Gold Coast. They also offer a free day trial for you to check them out and meet the team.
