Everything you need to know about desks for Australian Offices
Desks in Australia: The Complete Buyer’s Guide
Why Your Desk Choice Matters
Choosing the right office desk is about fit, function, and compliance. This guide explains desk types, size planning, and Australian standards (AFRDI, GECA), with checklists and examples, so you can select the right workstation for your team.
Finding the right desk in Australia is not just about finding a flat surface to work on. It is about creating a workspace that supports ergonomics, efficiency, and long-term comfort. A well-selected desk can improve productivity, protect employee health, and enhance the visual identity of your office.
In Australia, most professionals spend an average of 6 to 8 hours per day at a desk. For businesses, desks are not just furniture – they are the foundation of productivity, collaboration, ergonomics, and brand identity. A desk shapes how staff work, how technology is integrated, and even how your workplace is perceived by clients and visitors.
The Australian office furniture market is forecast to keep growing in 2025–26, driven by:
- The hybrid work model, which has increased demand for sit-stand desks and home office furniture.
- A strong focus on workplace health and ergonomics, with Safe Work Australia recommending postural variation rather than prolonged sitting or standing.
- The shift toward sustainable fitouts, with GECA and AFRDI certification now critical in government and corporate procurement, reflecting Australia's green building trends.
This buyer’s guide covers everything you need to know about choosing the right desk for your workspace. From straight desks and L-shape workstations to executive and reception desks, we’ll explore features, compliance standards, materials, sustainability certifications, and sector-specific recommendations.
Investing in the right desk can boost productivity by up to 12% (as seen in Sydney IT firms) and reduce absenteeism from back pain. Whether for business or home, prioritise compliance with AS/NZS 4442:2018 for adjustability and ISO 9241-5:2024 for posture.
By the end, you’ll know exactly how to select a desk that fits your space, budget, and organisational goals, while ensuring long-term comfort and compliance with Australian workplace standards. If you're still unsure reach out to us and one of our knowledgeable and friendly staff will be happy to assist.
Types of Desks Available in Australia
From affordable straight desks to premium executive models, here's a breakdown of popular desk types, including features & benefits.
Desk Converters & Risers
The quick and affordable solution for adding height flexibility, desk risers sit on top of existing desks and can be raised or lowered. Perfect for hybrid workers or small apartments needing ergonomic options without the added expense and environmental factors of replacing furniture.
Benefits:
- Low-cost entry into sit-stand functionality. Cost-Effective – A budget-friendly alternative to full standing desks, giving you ergonomic benefits without a full office refit.
- Portable and easy to move between rooms. Lightweight designs make them easy to reposition, share between workspaces, or take home for hybrid setups.
- Ideal for home offices or shared workstations or organisations wanting to upscale their current fixed desk setup.
For Your Physical Health
- Relieve Back & Neck Pain – Alternating between sitting and standing for even an hour can ease discomfort, with the CDC reporting significant reductions in musculoskeletal pain.
- Support Better Posture – By lifting your screen and keyboard to the right height, risers promote natural spinal alignment and help strengthen core stability.
- Burn More Calories – Standing uses more energy than sitting, which helps offset sedentary job risks and contributes to a healthier lifestyle.
- Improve Circulation – Regularly standing promotes blood flow, reduces leg stiffness, and supports cardiovascular health.
For Productivity & Energy
- Boost Focus & Concentration – Standing increases alertness, reduces mental fatigue, and research shows sit-stand users often see noticeable productivity gains.
- Fight Drowsiness – Staying upright helps combat mid-afternoon slumps, keeping you more engaged than sitting for extended periods.
Features to Look For:
- Gas-lift or manual height adjustment.
- Lightweight yet stable construction.
- Compact design for small surfaces.
Common Sizes:
- 700–1000 mm wide
- Designed to fit standard 900–2100 mm desks
L-Shape / Corner Desks
Maximising corner space and creating dual work zones, L-shape desks are ideal for multitaskers handling paperwork and digital tasks simultaneously. They’re highly efficient for dual-monitor or design setups.
Benefits:
- Maximise Space – Corner desks are designed to fit neatly into underused corners, making them ideal for small offices or compact home workspaces where every square metre counts.
- Generous Work Surface – The L-shaped design offers extra room for dual monitors, paperwork, or separating different tasks — from computer work to creative projects — without clutter.
- Better Organisation – With more surface area, there’s space for storage accessories, filing systems, and supplies, helping you maintain a tidy, efficient workstation.
- Boosted Focus – Positioning your desk in a corner creates a semi-private work zone that helps block out distractions and encourages concentration.
- Ergonomic Setup – Corner layouts allow for comfortable positioning of screens, keyboards, and accessories, supporting better posture and reducing strain during long workdays.
- Smooth Workflow – The dual surfaces make multitasking easier. You can pivot between zones — for example, from a computer to paperwork — with a simple chair slide.
- Perfect for Home Offices – A corner desk defines a dedicated “work zone” within any room, giving remote workers a functional setup without needing a full office.
Features to Look For:
- Left or right orientation options.
- Integrated cable ports and returns.
- Durable construction to handle heavy IT setups.
Common Sizes:
- 1500 + 1500 mm to 1800 + 1800 mm wide
- 700–800 mm deep
Sit Stand Desks
The star of desk trends, standing desks allow seamless height adjustments for alternating postures, aligning with Safe Work Australia’s anti-prolonged-sitting advice. Standing desks have become the centrepiece of modern workspaces. Instead of sitting for long hours, staff can switch between sitting and standing with a single button press.
Benefits:
- Reduces the risks of prolonged sitting, including back pain, musculoskeletal issues, and fatigue.
- Supports Safe Work Australia’s call for regular posture changes.
- Proven to increase productivity and energy levels.
- Popular in Melbourne tech firms, Sydney start-ups, and Brisbane government departments.
Features to Look For:
- Dual or triple motors for smooth lift.
- Memory presets so staff can save preferred heights.
- Anti-collision sensors for safety.
- Weight capacity for multi-monitor setups and heavy IT equipment.
- Cable trays and grommets for tech integration.
Common Sizes:
- 1200–1800 mm wide
- 700–800 mm deep
Straight Desks
The backbone of Australian office fitouts, straight desks are versatile, space-efficient, and budget-friendly. They suit everything from corporate offices to classrooms, offering a simple and modular foundation.
Benefits:
- Affordable and durable.
- Easy to cluster into pods for open-plan layouts.
- Compatible with desk returns and storage add-ons.
Features to Look For:
- Modesty panels for privacy.
- Integrated cable management.
- Commercial-grade laminate tops.
Common Sizes:
- 1200–2100 mm wide
- 700–800 mm deep
Bow & P-Shape Desks
Designed for managers and consultants, Bow &P-shape desks extend workspace with a curved side that doubles as a small meeting zone. They balance personal work needs with client-facing functionality.
Benefits:
- Accommodates guest seating at the desk.
- Provides extra depth for paperwork and devices.
- Enhances professional appearance.
Features to Look For:
- Extended curved worktop.
- Matching storage returns or credenzas.
Durable edge-banding for high-use settings.
Common Sizes:
- 1600–2000 mm wide
- 900 mm deep at curved side
Reception Desks
The first impression of any workplace, reception desks
combine visual impact with functional storage. From corporate offices to medical clinics, they signal professionalism and brand identity.
Benefits:
- Creates a professional front-of-house experience.
- Provides practical storage and technology integration.
- Customisable with branding and lighting.
Features to Look For:
- Branding panels and LED kick lighting.
- Accessible counter heights (ADA compliance).
- Lockable storage compartments.
Common Sizes:
- 1800–3000 mm wide
- 800–90mm deep
Executive Desks
A statement piece for directors and senior managers, executive desks pair premium materials with expansive surfaces. They project authority and accommodate meetings and decision-making.
Benefits:
- Luxury looks with high-quality finishes.
- Large work surface for meetings.
- Enhances executive office design.
Features to Look For:
- Timber veneer or dark wood finishes.
- Matching credenzas and hutches.
- Integrated power and data access.
Common Sizes:
- 1800–2200 mm wide
- 800–900 mm deep
Folding Desks
Designed for mobility and flexibility, folding desks are the choice for training rooms, classrooms, and multipurpose spaces. They can be reconfigured quickly for dynamic learning and work environments.
Benefits:
- Easy to move and store.
- Supports flexible room layouts.
- Ideal for training, exams, or workshops.
Features to Look For:
- Flip-top surfaces for nesting.
- Linking clips to form rows.
- Lockable castors for stability.
Desk Returns & Tops
If you already have frames, replacing just the desk top is cost-effective and sustainable. A great option for businesses looking to refresh work points.
Benefits:
- Replace tops while reusing frames.
- Available in sustainable finishes (E0/E1 low-emission).
Perfect for schools and government offices refurbishing on a budget.
Explore our range of Desk Tops
A desk return attaches to the main desk, expanding surface area. Adding a matching desk return converts a straight desk into a corner / L Shape desk without the need for a full replacement.
Ideal for:
- Legal, finance, and design professionals.
- Work requiring heavy paperwork.
Desk Buying Checklist
When it comes to choosing desks, the old saying “measure twice, cut once” has never been more relevant. That’s why our team provides free on-site measurement and 3D rendering services with every office fitout. From Melbourne to Brisbane, we help you visualise layouts, maximise space, and ensure compliance before a single desk is delivered.
☑ Measure your space (6 m² per workstation).
☑ Choose the right desk type (straight, sit-stand, executive).
☑ Check adjustability and ergonomics.
☑ Select materials (laminate, veneer, steel).
☑ Look for certifications (AFRDI, GECA, FSC).
☑ Plan cable management.
☑ Match sector needs (corporate, education, healthcare).
☑ Consider tax write-off benefits.
Key Considerations when investing in Desks
Sector-Specific Desk Solutions
Corporate Offices
- Mix of sit-stand desks and straight desk pods.
- Executive office desks paired with Real Leather Office Chairs for directors.
Government Departments
- Modular and durable desks.
- Folding desks for training facilities.
Education
- Folding desks with linking clips.
- Straight desks with durable melamine tops.
Healthcare
- Non-porous surfaces.
- Compact reception desks.
Home Offices
- Compact L-shape or straight desks.
- Desk risers for apartments.
Ergonomics and Australian Standards
Standards & Guidance:
AS/NZS 4442:2018 sets out requirements for office desks, including height ranges and durability.
Safe Work Australia highlights that posture should be varied regularly, with sitting and standing alternated throughout the day (Safe Work Australia – Good Work Design).
WorkSafe WA recommends avoiding more than 20–30 minutes in a single posture, reinforcing the importance of adjustable desks (WorkSafe WA – Office Ergonomics).
Comcare provides practical workstation setup guidance, including monitor positioning, desk height, and sit-stand variation (Comcare Workstation Setup Guide PDF).
Tips for Ergonomic Desks:
- Use monitor arms to maintain eye-level screens.
- If using a standard height desk, consider adding a desktop riser for an instant ergonomic solution.
- Ensure desks are at least 700 mm deep.
- Encourage micro-breaks and posture variation.
- Add footrests and anti-fatigue mats where needed.
Sector-Specific Desk Solutions
Corporate Offices
- Mix of sit-stand desks and straight desk pods.
- Executive desks for directors.
Government Departments
- Modular and durable desks.
- Folding desks for training facilities.
Education
- Folding desks with linking clips.
- Straight desks with durable melamine tops.
Healthcare
- Non-porous surfaces.
- Compact reception desks.
Home Offices
- Compact L-shape or straight desks.
- Desk risers where replacement isn’t feasible and add monitor arms to reclaim space.
Space Planning and Layout
Proper space planning ensures staff can move comfortably and work effectively.
Guidelines:
- Allocate ~6 m² per workstation including desk, chair, and tertiary space, based on WorkSafe Victoria’s office design guidance (WorkSafe Victoria – Office Layout).
- Ensure 1.2 m clearance in front of drawers and cabinets.
- Cluster layouts:
Pods of straight desks for open-plan offices.
L-shape desks for managers.
Sit-stand hot desks for shared spaces.
We can help you with your layout. Take advantage of our complementary 3D rendering and office deign layout service.
City-Specific Desk Trends
Desks Melbourne
- Demand for office fitouts Melbourne with sit-stand desks.
- Creative industries favour timber-look finishes.
Desks Sydney
- Finance and law firms prefer executive desks.
- High demand for ergonomic setups.
Desks Brisbane
- Government and education fitouts driving folding desk demand.
Desks Perth
- Resource companies want durable heavy-duty desks.
Desks Adelaide
- SMEs and start-ups prefer affordable compact desks.
Sustainability and Certifications
Procurement policies in Australia increasingly demand sustainable options.
AFRDI Green Tick: ensures durability and sustainability.
GECA (Good Environmental Choice Australia): trusted ecolabel, recognised by Green Building Council.
FSC Certification: ensures timber is from responsibly managed forests.
Case Study: A Victorian government office required all desks to be GECA certified as part of their tender. Suppliers without certification were excluded. We supplied a range of certified desks accompanied by Buro Greengaurd certified Chairs.
Materials and Finishes
Laminate/Melamine (E0/E1): durable, affordable, wide colour range.
Timber Veneer: executive appeal, warm finish.
Powder-coated Steel Frames: industrial strength, long life.
Glass: sleek, modern, creative spaces.
Trend: Neutral greys and whites remain popular, but timber-look finishes are trending in Australian offices.
Tax Benefits: Small Business Instant Asset Write-Off
For 2025–26, the ATO’s instant asset write-off scheme allows small businesses to claim immediate deductions on office furniture purchases, including essentials like office desks & ergonomic chairs.
Why It Matters:
- Immediate tax deduction.
- Helps businesses modernise workplaces.
- Supports investment in ergonomic furniture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Office Desks
Find quick answers to common desk buying questions, from ergonomics and standards to tax write-offs and space planning.
Are standing desks healthier than sitting all day?
Yes — but only if used correctly. Safe Work Australia advises workers should alternate between sitting and standing, as prolonged use of either posture can cause fatigue or musculoskeletal issues. Sit-stand desks encourage healthy posture variation, reduce back pain, and are proven to improve energy and productivity. To make the most of this setup, many workplaces now pair their sit-stand desks with ergonomic desk stools. These stools allow users to perch in a semi-standing position, reducing fatigue while still promoting movement and circulation. Together, a sit-stand desk and a height-adjustable stool create a dynamic workstation that supports long-term comfort and healthier posture.
What is the standard desk height in Australia?
Most fixed desks in Australia are set at around 720 mm high. However, the Australian Standard AS/NZS 4442:2018 recommends a seated adjustment range of 620–845 mm for ergonomic compliance. This allows workers of different heights to maintain neutral posture while working.
How much space should I allow for each workstation?
WorkSafe Victoria recommends allocating around 6 m² per workstation. This includes tertiary space for the desk, chair, storage, and circulation zones. You should also allow at least 1.2 m clearance in front of drawers or filing units to ensure safe and comfortable access.
Which desk type is best for small offices or apartments?
Compact straight desks or L-shape corner desks are ideal for maximising space in small offices or home setups. Adding a desk return or a monitor arm can create more usable space without increasing your desk footprint.
Can desks be claimed as a business expense?
Yes. Under the ATO’s Instant Asset Write-Off scheme (2025–26), small businesses can immediately deduct the full cost of office desks, fitout furniture, and ergonomic upgrades. This makes investing in new workstations both a productivity and tax-smart decision.
What certifications should I look for when buying desks?
When purchasing desks for government, education, or corporate fitouts, look for sustainability and compliance certifications such as:
- AFRDI Green Tick (durability + sustainability)
- GECA (Good Environmental Choice Australia)
- FSC (responsibly sourced timber)
These align with government procurement frameworks and Green Star-rated building requirements.
Our Fitout Guarantee: Measure Twice, Cut Once
Choosing the right desks isn’t just about style or price — it’s about making sure every workstation fits your space, supports workflow, and complies with Australian standards. That’s why we back every office fitout with our complimentary on-site measurement and 3D rendering service.
What you get:
✅ On-site measurements — our team visits your office to double-check dimensions and layout.
✅ 3D renderings — visualise your desks in place before you buy, avoiding costly surprises.
✅ Compliance peace of mind — layouts planned to align with Safe Work Australia and AS/NZS standards.
✅ Optimised space planning — from reception to corner offices, we design for flow, collaboration, and comfort.
It’s our way of putting the old saying into action: “Measure twice, cut once.” With Office Furniture Designs, your desks are guaranteed to fit, function, and future-proof your workspace.
