- A new peak body officially launches today for flexible workplaces
- Flexible Workplace Australia has been created in response to growing demand for hybrid workplaces
- The shift to flexible workplaces has been fast tracked by the pandemic
Australia’s first peak body for a flexible workspace has officially launched today in response to the growing demand for hybrid workplaces.
Flexible Workspace Australia (FWA), will bring together industry stakeholders as one entity, both workplace providers and suppliers, aiming to create a collaborative network.
Fiona Mayor, Thrive Network Director and FWA co-chair, explained that FWA helps members to foster closer relationships within the network.
“FWA ultimately strives to create a healthy eco-system and community that encourages idea and resource sharing, allows talents to develop and innovate, and fosters beneficial partnerships.”
Fiona Mayor, Thrive Network Director
The peak body will advocate for members during interactions with governments, undertake research into the fast-growing sector and guide policy development.
Thrive Network, WeWork, and Hub Australia are just some of the leading flexible workplaces and coworking providers involved. Some suppliers involved in the creation of the peak body include Bioom, Instant Offices, Rubber Desk, Work Free and Office RnD.
Flexible workplaces are often designed to allow for employees to work from home (WFH) part of the week, to promote collaboration and facilitate shared spaces.
Covid has accelerated the global shift towards flexible workspaces. Employees and companies became have become more comfortable with WFH and people are reluctant to give up the newfound benefits of flexibility.
Even before the pandemic in 2019, coworking and flexible spaces made up 2.5% of all lettable commercial offices in Australia with this now portion is expected to surge.
Brad Krauskopf, Hub Australia CEO and Founder, believes the time is now for the industry to unite.
“This is an important and exciting step for our industry, as Australian workplaces move towards a hybrid and flexible future.”
Brad Krauskopf, Hub Australia CEO and Founder
“Members, affiliates and supporters can now collaborate to create flexible workplace solutions for businesses of all industry backgrounds and sizes,” said Mr Krauskopf.
“As a united peak body, the industry can better contribute towards building a diverse network of flexible workspace locations that span across Australia,” he said.
The Victorian Government has already begun collaboration with FWA to deliver a coworking program with a suburban focus.
The program, Boosting Coworking, will enable people to work closer to home which is hoped to stimulate economic activity in local areas and reduce congestion.
The new peak body has already had involvement in advocacy for rental relief. This was in collaboration with the Property Council of Australia and Council of Small Business Organisations Australia.
Although FWA was first conceived in 2020, it is officially launched today. In recognition, a virtual launch event will be held tonight.
