If you're planning to launch or upgrade a co-working space, understanding your fit-out financing options is just as important as your design and build choices. Here’s what you need to know:
Key takeaways
- Fit-out costs typically range from $800 to $2,200 per sqm, with premium CBD locations and high-tech inclusions pushing costs higher
- Flexible finance options like unsecured business loans, equipment leasing, and specialised fit-out loans can fund up to 100% of project costs, repayable over 12 to 60 months.
- Co-working demand has grown over 24% since 2023, especially in metro hubs like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
- Compliance, technology, and sustainability can add 10–20% to total costs — bundling these into your finance plan can help ease cash flow pressure.
- Fit-out finance advisors can help you navigate planning, approvals, and cost structuring — ensuring you can open faster without depleting working capital.
Why your funding strategy matters from day one
A successful co-working space isn’t just about open-plan desks and breakout zones — it’s about how well you’ve structured your cash flow. With fit-out costs easily reaching six figures, many operators are turning to fit-out finance solutions to avoid large upfront capital outlays.
Whether you're a first-time operator or scaling across multiple sites, having a finance plan aligned with your business growth is what separates successful launches from stalled projects.
What goes into a co-working space fit-out?
Before diving into finance, it helps to understand where your money goes. A typical fit-out includes:
1. Design and planning
- Architectural drawings and space planning
- Council approvals and permits (DA, fire compliance, DDA access)
- Branding, signage, and internal design concepting
Estimated cost: $80–$160 per sqm
Finance tip: Many lenders allow you to package design and planning into your overall fit-out loan if part of a turnkey agreement.
2. Build and construction
- Partitioning, flooring, ceilings, and electrical wiring
- Kitchenettes, bathrooms, breakout spaces
- IT infrastructure and network cabling
Estimated cost: $900–$1,500 per sqm
Finance tip: You can lease major fixtures and built-in equipment over time, reducing upfront payments.
3. Furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FFE)
- Desks, chairs, couches, lockers
- Reception counters, kitchen appliances
- Televisions, whiteboards, AV systems
Estimated cost: $200–$400 per sqm
Finance tip: Asset finance or operating leases are ideal for these depreciating items — keeping you tax-efficient.
4. Technology and access control
- Door swipe systems, member booking software, surveillance
- Wi-Fi routers, switches, servers, and printers
Estimated cost: Varies ($10K–$60K+)
Finance tip: Bundle tech into your finance to reduce upfront spend and ensure upgrade cycles are manageable.
How much does a full fit-out cost in Australia?
Your total co-working fit-out cost will depend heavily on location, quality, and space size. Based on recent 2024 market data, here’s what you can expect for a 200 sqm site:
- Suburban locations:
Expect to pay between $800 and $1,200 per square metre, bringing the total fit-out cost to roughly $160,000 to $240,000. - Inner-city areas:
Fit-out costs typically range from $1,200 to $1,800 per square metre, equating to $240,000 to $360,000 for a 200 sqm space. - Premium CBD spaces:
High-end or central city locations with more luxurious finishes and tech inclusions can range from $1,800 to $2,200+ per square metre, putting the total cost at around $360,000 to $440,000 or more.
Popular finance options for co-working space fit-outs
1. Fit-out loans
These are tailored business loans that cover all or part of your fit-out. They’re typically unsecured and can range from $50,000 to $1M, with repayment terms from 1 to 5 years.
Best for: Operators with a complete budget and clear project timeline.
Benefit: Quick access to funds, flexible repayment terms.
Drawback: May require strong credit or trading history.
2. Equipment and asset finance
Use this to fund everything from chairs and computers to built-in AV systems or security doors. The asset serves as collateral, and terms are often 24–60 months.
Best for: Businesses wanting to preserve cash and deduct repayments for tax.
Benefit: Lower interest rates, tax-effective.
Drawback: You may not own the asset until the term ends (depending on structure).
3. Chattel mortgage
This option lets you own the asset from day one while repaying it over time, ideal for furniture or fixtures with lasting value.
Best for: Businesses planning long-term use of owned assets.
Benefit: Asset ownership + tax deductions.
Drawback: Requires accurate asset tracking and depreciation.
4. Unsecured business loans
If you're time-poor and need cash fast, unsecured loans offer flexibility with quick approvals (as fast as 24–48 hours in some cases).
Best for: Small operators with urgent needs or bridging finance gaps.
Benefit: Fast and easy access to funds.
Drawback: Higher interest rates compared to secured loans.
What lenders look for in a fit-out finance application
Before approving finance, lenders typically assess:
- Your business history and revenue
- A clear fit-out plan and budget
- Council approvals or planning status
- Timeline for delivery and launch
- The mix of items being financed (e.g. fixed vs. moveable assets)
FAQs: Co-working fit-outs and finance in Australia
Q: Can I get financing before my space is ready?
Yes — most fit-out lenders will release staged payments based on your builder or supplier invoices. Pre-approval is often possible based on your plans.
Q: Is equipment leasing better than buying upfront?
It depends. Leasing reduces upfront spend and may offer tax advantages. Buying outright gives you full control. A finance expert can help you compare.
Q: How long does fit-out finance take to approve?
Some unsecured or equipment loans can be approved within 48 hours. Larger or staged fit-out loans may take 5–10 business days.
Q: Can I finance tech upgrades or software systems?
Yes — many finance providers now include tech, AV, and cloud systems as part of your overall package.
Q: What happens if my build costs more than expected?
A good finance partner will allow for contingency. In some cases, you can apply for a top-up or restructure mid-project.
Conclusion: funding your co-working space the smart way
A standout co-working space starts with a bold vision — but it’s smart finance that turns it into reality. Whether you’re building from scratch, upgrading, or scaling across new locations, having a well-structured fit-out finance solution gives you:
- Faster project delivery
- Preserved working capital
- Flexibility to grow without risk
From design to desks, funding every element of your fit-out through tailored solutions is now more accessible than ever.
