In recent years, Sydney and Melbourne’s Central Business Districts (CBDs) have become fertile grounds for various office setups beyond the traditional. Among them, serviced and shared office spaces stand out as flexible, modern solutions for businesses and professionals.
However, as similar as they may appear, these two options offer different advantages. This article delves into the benefits of both, while also shedding light on what shared office spaces can additionally bring to the table.
The spectrum: serviced offices to shared offices
Serviced offices are a go-to option for those looking for a more conventional office setting without the hassle of long-term leases and upkeep.
These often come fully furnished, offering a private, ready-to-use space tailored for immediate occupation. On the other hand, shared offices flip the script, providing a collaborative environment that promotes interaction and networking, all while delivering many of the same amenities as serviced offices. As we navigate through the distinctions, we’ll also unpack the unique advantages each setup presents, paving the way to understand their respective benefits more clearly.
Professionalism: image matters
In business, first impressions are vital. Both serviced and shared offices lend an air of professionalism that can be especially beneficial for startups and small enterprises. Serviced offices in Sydney and Melbourne CBDs offer a prestigious address, while shared offices in Sydney and premium coworking spaces in Melbourne present a modern, dynamic image of a business that values innovation and community.
A wealth of amenities
Whether you opt for a serviced office or shared space, the range of facilities available can substantially reduce your operating costs. From high-speed internet and meeting rooms for hire to reception services and beyond, these setups often include everything you would need to run your business efficiently. However, shared office spaces usually go a step further, adding community events, workshops, and collaborative areas that foster innovation.

Flexibility and freedom
One of the more evident advantages both serviced and shared office spaces share is their enhanced flexibility. Traditional office leases can tie you down for years, but both these modern alternatives offer shorter term agreements and scalable options. Moreover, you can often access shared office spaces like those by JustCo across multiple locations, including various CBDs worldwide — something rarely available with serviced offices.
Looking for a flexible workspace?
A JustCo coworking membership offers a comfortable, productive office environment in 6 locations around Australia – and over 40 across APAC. Perfect for hybrid and decentralised teams!
Get in touch with us to discover how JustCo can help your organisation stay agile.
Beyond workspace: the community aspect
In both Sydney and Melbourne’s central business districts, having an office isn’t just about having a place to work; it’s about being part of a community. While serviced offices do attract a variety of businesses, the ecosystem in shared offices is designed for collaboration and networking. By sharing an office space with professionals from diverse sectors, the potential for partnerships, client relationships, and even friendships is markedly higher.
The smart choice in modern workspaces
While serviced offices offer a variety of benefits, particularly for those looking for a traditional but flexible office experience, shared offices offer something more — a sense of community, additional opportunities for networking, and even greater flexibility. If you’re seeking an office in Sydney or Melbourne CBD that offers more than a workspace, considering a shared office might be the right move.
Ready to explore your available options? Visit JustCo’s website to find out how shared offices can offer many of the amenities and benefits that attract businesses to serviced offices, but with added community and flexibility. Check out our coworking membership plans today.