Office fitouts in Melbourne typically cost between $550 and $3,000+ per square metre plus GST. The final price depends on the specification level and the type of fitout required.
Costs vary significantly based on whether you need a basic open plan setup or a high end executive environment with custom joinery.
Fitout cost per square metre (2026)
Budget open plan options range from $550 to $600 per sqm. Mid range fitouts, which are the most popular choice for most businesses, cost between $1,200 and $1,400 per sqm. This range typically includes a reception area, meeting rooms, and a mix of open plan work areas with glass and plasterboard partitions. Floor coverings at this level are usually carpet tiles.
Open plan versus cellular office costs
Open plan setups cost $550 to $600 per sqm because they avoid expensive authority approvals and air conditioning modifications. Adding partitioned offices increases the cost to $750 to $850 per sqm. These setups use huddles or booths for quiet areas and budget workstations with screen dividers.
What defines an executive fitout cost
Executive environments cost between $2,800 and $3,000 per sqm. These projects include bespoke reception counters, stone benchtops in breakout areas, and high quality timber veneers in boardrooms. They often feature state of the art audio visual equipment and luxurious lounge seating in the foyer.
Hidden costs in Melbourne renovations
Strip out works in older Melbourne buildings can reveal asbestos or structural damage. Licensed removal of hazardous materials is required before any other construction can happen. Compliance upgrades to existing services can also become a tenant obligation if current systems no longer meet building codes.
Make good obligations and costs
Make good costs depend on the condition of the space at lease expiry. Small offices under 200sqm cost between $15,000 and $60,000 to return to original condition. Large spaces over 500sqm can cost $180,000 to $500,000 or more.
How to get an accurate cost estimate
Progressive Corporate provides a free design and layout review to define your scope. This ensures the budget reflects your actual headcount and required room types. Our team can visit your site or you can view options at our Knoxfield showroom. This avoids the risk of variations after the contract is signed.
Frequently asked questions
What is a turnkey fitout?
It is a fully managed service covering design, furniture, partitions, and installation. You receive a finished office ready for occupation.
How much does an office make good cost?
Costs vary by size, with small offices under 200sqm ranging from $15,000 to $60,000. Large spaces over 500sqm can exceed $500,000.
What is included in a budget open plan fitout?
This level includes budget workstations and huddles or booths for quiet areas. It typically excludes formal reception areas and extensive partitioning.
Questions to ask your fitout company before you sign
- Will the proposed partition systems increase my make good liability at the end of the lease?
- Does the provisional sum for services cover the necessary HVAC and fire modifications for this layout?
- Are there any known hazardous materials in the base building that could trigger additional strip out costs?