FLEXIBLE WORKSPACE AUSTRALIA

Flexible Workspace Australia’s National  Conference 2025

21–22 August 2025 | Brisbane, Australia

FWACon25

Mark your calendars, because Flexible Workspace Australia is bringing #FWACon25 to Brisbane!

This is the must-attend event of the year curated by the industry for everyone in the flexible workspace industry – owners and operators, investors, brokers and commercial real estate agents, policy makers, property owners and industry suppliers. You won’t want to miss this!

In 2025 we’re thrilled to be expanding the conference to two incredible days of learning, connection and celebration. 

FWACon25 | August 21 & 22 | Brisbane

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Why attend #FWACon25?

Why attend #FWACon25?

  • Explore the latest trends and innovations shaping the flexible workspace industry. 100% 100%
  • Gain insights from industry-leading speakers and participate in hands-on workshops. 100% 100%
  • Celebrate excellence at our lively Awards Welcome Party. 100% 100%
  • Build meaningful connections that will continue long after the conference. 100% 100%

Program Agenda

AGENDA - THURSDAY 21ST AUGUST

1.45PM-2.00PM - Tour Registrations Check In

Tour Brisbane’s inspiring coworking spaces with fellow operators and members.

2.00PM-5.00PM - Space Tours

Programmed space tours of some of Brisbane’s best coworking spaces.

6.00PM-9.00PM - Welcome Party and Awards at Hub Australia

Join us at the stunning Hub Anzac Square Rooftop for the Awards Welcome Party, set against the backdrop of Brisbane’s breathtaking CBD skyline. This unforgettable evening is all about celebrating the achievements of our vibrant community while enjoying great food, drinks and conversations. It’s your chance to honor the dedication and innovation shaping the future of flexible workspaces—all with a spectacular view!

AGENDA - FRIDAY 22ND AUGUST

8.00AM - Registrations Open

Grab your badge, enjoy freshly brewed coffee and a light snack, and mingle with your fellow attendees before the main event kicks off!

8.45AM - Official Welcome

Join us as we officially open the FWA 2025 Conference with an Acknowldgement of Country and a Welcome to Brisbane!

8.50 - Brisbane’s Economic Evolution: What’s Next?

In this fast-paced session, Anthony Ryan, Chief Executive Officer of Brisbane Economic Development Agency, will highlight the key trends shaping Brisbane’s economy and what they mean for the future of work and business.

9.05AM - Virtual Session: From Space to Standout - How to Build A Brand That Thrives

Your brand is more than just a logo—it’s the experience, reputation and trust you cultivate. In an increasingly competitive market, standing out requires a clear strategy and intentional actions.

In this virtual session, Liz Simon, COO of Industrious, will share insights into how businesses of any size can craft a compelling brand that resonates with their audience and drives long-term success.

9.50AM - Leases, management agreements and JV’s
Join Jessie Glew (WOTSO), Sheree McIntyre (Coworking Counsel), and Sami Schaivi (Colliers) in conversation with John Preece (Hub Australia) as they unpack the evolving landlord-operator relationship and what it means for the future of workspace deals. This 40-minute session will equip you with a clear understanding of Hybrid Leases, Management Agreements (MAs), and Joint Ventures (JVs) – including their pros, cons, risks, and rewards from both operator and landlord perspectives.
You’ll Learn To:
  •  Identify and approach the right landlords for your business model.
  •  Prepare for and negotiate partnership-style agreements.
  •  Master the key metrics and reporting standards essential for success.
  •  Understand financial transparency requirements for partnerships.
  •  Craft a compelling pitch to landlords.
10.30AM-11.00AM - Morning Tea

Have a quick break, grab a snack, and use the moment to connect with someone new!

11.05AM - The 7 Trends Shaping the Coworking World in 2025

Join our international speaker Giovanni Palavicini as he dives into the key trends reshaping our industry—from evolving landlord-operator relationships to the impact of AI and shifting workplace expectations.

12.10PM - Break Out Masterclasses

Let’s divide and conquer! Dive into dedicated sessions tailored to specific topics. Your badge will lead you to your chosen break-out session.

  1. Flexit Strategies: Maximising your valuation to sell, merge or be acquired

Thinking about the next chapter for your workspace business? In this high-impact session, you’ll discover how businesses are valued, what it takes to sell or merge successfully and the strategies to prepare now for a smooth, profitable transition.

Join speakers…

 Share their insider tips, market trends and real-world stories to help you make your next move with confidence.

2. Coworking SEO: DIY tips and Agency Management

Join Ryan Jenkins, Founder of TheHypeSociety, for a practical and empowering workshop tailored for coworking operators and flexible workspace teams. With two decades of experience driving digital growth for ambitious brands, Ryan will show you how to take control of your SEO — without relying entirely on expensive agencies. You’ll uncover simple, effective strategies to boost your Google visibility, attract more members, and hold your marketing partners accountable. Whether you’re just starting out or ready to fine-tune your online presence, this session will leave you equipped and confident to grow your workspace organically.

3. Navigating the universe for lead generation in 2025

How are people really finding and choosing flexible workspaces in 2025? This masterclass brings together expert voices from across the industry to explore how AI, automation, aggregators, and shifting customer behaviour are reshaping lead generation.

Moderated by Kate Dezarnaulds (WorkLife), join Yusuf Oner (YOCO), Arianne Guehrer (Cushman & Wakefield) and Jim Groves (Rubberdesk) for an honest and insightful conversation

1.10PM - Lunch

Indulge in our sustainable and delicious lunch and don’t miss out on exploring our exhibitor stalls!

2.15PM - Award Winners Presentation
2.30PM - How to build a brand that's a movement

Michelle Battersby
Co-Founder of Sunroom & Former Bumble Exec

Keynote speaker Michelle Battersby shares what it takes to build a brand that goes beyond visibility and achieves true cultural relevance—drawing on her experience launching Bumble in Australia and co-founding Sunroom. Expect bold insights and fresh thinking on creating brands that connect, inspire, and lead.

3.15PM - FWA IGNITE

Join us a for a fast ideas session, Pecha Kucha style with the following speakers:

 

3.40PM - Conference Close
3.45PM - Networking Drinks

Proudly sponsored by NeoSpace, wrap up the day with a relaxed mix of drinks and nibbles. It’s the perfect chance to swap insights, connect with speakers and exchange details with your new industry friends – because the best ideas often happen after hours.

Who's Speaking?

Get ready to meet an incredible lineup of industry movers and shakers!

Prepare to connect with a powerhouse community of industry leaders, innovators and visionaries! This is your chance to spark fresh ideas, share insights and build lasting connections with the people shaping the future of flexible workspaces.

Giovanni Palavicini

Giovanni Palavicini

President and Founder, Fronteras Commercial Real Estate

Liz Simon

Liz Simon

COO, Industrious

Michelle Battersby

Michelle Battersby

CMO/Founder, Sunroom

Sheree McIntyre

Sheree McIntyre

Founder, Coworking Counsel Pty Ltd & Board Member, FWA

Jessie Glew

Jessie Glew

CEO, WOTSO & Board Member, FWA

Jack Campbell

Jack Campbell

Director, Kandui Group

John Preece

John Preece

Chief Operating Officer, Hub Australia

Ryan Jenkins

Ryan Jenkins

CEO, TheHypeSociety

Yusuf Oner

Yusuf Oner

Managing Director, YoCo

Jim Groves

Jim Groves

CEO, Rubberdesk

Blair Luckman

Blair Luckman

Co-Director, LINK Business Brisbane

Arianne Guehrer

Arianne Guehrer

Head of Tenant Advisory Group, QLD, Cushman & Wakefield

Anthony Ryan

Anthony Ryan

CEO, BEDA

Kate Dezarnaulds

Kate Dezarnaulds

Founder, Worklife.org & Co-Chair, FWA

Clive Dale

Clive Dale

Principal consultant, Bioom Pty Ltd

Oliver Bradshaw

Oliver Bradshaw

General Manager, Eighth Avenue Social

Niall Ashleigh

Niall Ashleigh

Director - Institutional Office Valuations & Advisory, Urbis

James Staunton

James Staunton

Head of Partnerships QLD, IWG

Who's Coming

Get ready to meet an incredible lineup of industry movers and shakers!

Prepare to connect with a powerhouse community of industry leaders, innovators and visionaries! This is your chance to spark fresh ideas, share insights and build lasting connections with the people shaping the future of flexible workspaces.

Kate Dezarnaulds

Kate Dezarnaulds

Founder, Worklife.org & Co-Chair, FWA

Kate Hasbani

Kate Hasbani

Secretary, FWA

Giovanni Palavicini

Giovanni Palavicini

President and Founder, Fronteras Commercial Real Estate

Jessie Glew

Jessie Glew

CEO, WOTSO & Board Member, FWA

Ophelie Cutier

Ophelie Cutier

CEO, Spacecubed & Board Member, FWA

Damien Sheehan

Damien Sheehan

Regional SVP, IWG & Board Member, FWA

Barry Hickman

Barry Hickman

Director at collective_100 Pty Ltd & Board Member, FWA

Sheree McIntyre

Sheree McIntyre

Founder, Coworking Counsel Pty Ltd & Board Member, FWA

Mary Scriva

Mary Scriva

Association Executive & Events Manager, FWA

Lisa Saunders

Lisa Saunders

Membership and Sponsorship Manager, FWA

Amanda Callcott

Amanda Callcott

General Manager, Intersect Coworking

Sophie Linehan

Sophie Linehan

Community Engagement Coordinator, Country Universities Centre Southern Shoalhaven and The Hive

Lauren Hardy

Lauren Hardy

General Manager, Spacecubed

Jim Groves

Jim Groves

CEO, Rubberdesk

James Hollonds

James Hollonds

Managing Director, Saikel

Oliver Bradshaw

Oliver Bradshaw

General Manager, Eighth Avenue Social

Kelly Murphy

Kelly Murphy

Space Leader, Goodspace

Rebekah Murphy

Rebekah Murphy

Chief Revenue & Experience Officer, Hub Australia

Ashneel Sharma

Ashneel Sharma

Strategic Account Director, APAC, Officernd Ltd

Aleisha O'Neill

Aleisha O'Neill

General Manager, Qb Studios

Linda Jane Davies

Linda Jane Davies

Operations Manager, The Office Bowral

James Bingham

James Bingham

Workplace and Real Estate Director, Alidade & Treasurer, FWA

John Preece

John Preece

Chief Operating Officer, Hub Australia

Brad Krauskopf

Brad Krauskopf

CEO & Founder, Hub Australia

Clinton Selby

Clinton Selby

Owner, Genius Coworking

Dave Oldershaw

Dave Oldershaw

COO, OfficeRnD

Mike Clews

Mike Clews

Technical Sales Manager, Salto

Sam De Nys

Sam De Nys

Business Development Manager – QLD, Salto

Zane Pritkovs

Zane Pritkovs

Managing Director (ANZ), Ezeep

Matt Knight

Matt Knight

Founder, Sharedspace.co.nz

Cassandra Kavanagh

Cassandra Kavanagh

Little Big Boss, Rethink Your Workspace

Joe Lang

Joe Lang

Account Executive APAC, OfficeRnD

Brian Challen

Brian Challen

Founder and CEO, Workspace365

Ashleigh Whittaker

Ashleigh Whittaker

CEO, Snack Proud

Tobi Skovron

Tobi Skovron

Executive Director, Cubes.co

Rebecca Freestone

Rebecca Freestone

Head of Ops, Cubes.co

Gawin Fernando

Gawin Fernando

Head of Revenue and Area Director NSW & SA, Cubes.Co

Jack Rorvik

Jack Rorvik

Co-Founder, Fleks Workspaces

Debra Fallon

Debra Fallon

Director, Workspace365 (Qld)

Bianca Hunter

Bianca Hunter

State Sales Manager, QLD, Worskapce365

Robert Christie

Robert Christie

Chairman, Christie Spaces

Dan Hasting

Dan Hasting

CEO, Christie Spaces

Chris Rich

Chris Rich

Space Leader, Goodspace

Jarred Maunder

Jarred Maunder

Leasing Manager, Christie Spaces

Jack Quinn

Jack Quinn

Meeting and Events Sales Manager, Hub Australia

Kasia Stelmach

Kasia Stelmach

NSW, BDM, Stone & Chalk

Anna McCormack

Anna McCormack

Head of Marketing, Collective Maintenance Services

Manoj Mansukhani

Manoj Mansukhani

National Partnership Manager , Nespresso Australia

Nikol Rorvik

Nikol Rorvik

Co-founder/ Community Manager, Fleks Workspaces

Michelle Battersby

Michelle Battersby

CMO/Founder, Sunroom

Clive Dale

Clive Dale

Principal consultant, Bioom Pty Ltd

Jamie Vine

Jamie Vine

Founder & Group CEO, Liberty Flexible Workspaces

Chris Mangano

Chris Mangano

Business Development Manager, Temple & Webster

Niall Ashleigh

Niall Ashleigh

Director - Institutional Office Valuations & Advisory, Urbis

Oliver Morgan

Oliver Morgan

General Manager (QLD), Workspace365

James Staunton

James Staunton

Head of Partnerships QLD, IWG

What's On

Day 1: Thursday 21st August

Behind-the-Scenes Tours & Awards Welcome Party

Kicks off with local visits of Brisbane’s innovative coworking spaces for exclusive tours and inspiration. Think design, tech and hospitality that will blow your mind—and all in the company of industry legends and new comers. Whether you’re here to discover new ideas, meet your peers, or get inspired, these tours are the perfect start.

After a day of inspiration, we’ll keep the excitement going at our Awards Welcome Party. It’s a night dedicated to celebrating the rockstars of our industry, with awards for the best of the best in flexible workspaces. There’ll be laughter, applause and plenty of chances to catch up over drinks as we toast this years winners!

brisbane skyline
people at a conference

Day 2: Friday 22nd August

Keynotes, Workshops and Afternoon Networking

Get ready for a full day dedicated to fresh perspectives, powerful insights and actionable ideas. We’re bringing together visionary keynote speakers who will share their perspectives on the trends shaping the future of flexible workspaces. There will be break-out sessions tailored to the diversity within our industry and we are bringing back IGNITE FWA- our fast-talks session showcasing big ideas and best practice within flex.

Then to wrap up the day, we will conclude with an afternoon networking session, drinks in hand! It’s the perfect way to wind down, chat about the day’s big ideas and walk away with new connections and insights to take back to your own space.

Don’t miss out—register now and be part of the future of the coworking industry.

Join us at the stunning Hub Anzac Square Rooftop for the Awards Welcome Party, set against the backdrop of Brisbane’s breathtaking CBD skyline. This unforgettable evening is all about celebrating the achievements of our vibrant community while enjoying great food, drinks and conversations. It’s your chance to honor the dedication and innovation shaping the future of flexible workspaces—all with a spectacular view!

21st August from 6pm-9pm at Hub Anzac Square Rooftop

The Flexible Workspace Australia Awards are back!

Join us as we celebrate excellence, innovation and the incredible achievements of the Flexible Workspace industry. These awards shine a spotlight on standout contributions in workspace design, community engagement, diversity and inclusion, and sustainability.

It’s our chance to honour the individuals and organisations driving the future of workspaces in Australia, showcasing the passion and creativity that make our industry thrive. Winners will be revealed at the highly anticipated Awards Welcome Party and will have the exciting opportunity to present their achievements during the conference. It’s a celebration of the passion and creativity driving the future of workspaces in Australia—don’t miss it! Nominations will be opening soon…

Hub Anzac Square Rooftop
FWA award winners

What Do the Award Winners Receive?

  • Recognition at the FWA Welcome Awards Party
  • Recognition within the Flexible Workspace Industry
  • 50% discount to the 2026 National Conference.
  • Webinar series on award winners
  • Profiled in the FWA industry report
  • Profiled on the Flexible Workspace Australia website
  • Profiled in the September industry eDm

RESERVE NOW

REGISTER FOR TICKETS TODAY!

Ticket holders are entitled to:
– Full Program Agenda
– One break-out session
– Local tours

Important Notes:
– All rates are in Australian dollars (AUD$) and exclusive of the goods and services tax (GST)
– Awards Welcome Party is an additional cost
– All registrations are in-person. There is no virtual registration option.

We’re excited to offer Afterpay as a flexible payment option for the conference—making it easier than ever to secure your spot!
afterpay logo

Venue Partner

We’re excited to partner with Workspace365 at 260 Queen St, Brisbane, as our venue partner for the FWA Conference. This contemporary space, located in the heart of the Brisbane CBD, combines sleek modern design with exceptional amenities and stunning city views. Workspace365’s premium coworking community champions heritage, sustainability, collaboration, and creativity—setting the perfect stage for two days of inspiration, connection, and innovation.

workspace365 logo

Accommodation Options

If you are looking for accommodation close to the conference venue, there are a few selected hotels that have offered a discount rate.

All hotels are easily accessible to the conference venue and provide a comfortable stay for delegates. To secure your hotel accommodation, please choose from the following:

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Who is FWA?

Flexible Workspace Australia is the peak body for coworking and flexible workspace providers and partners across all cities and regions of Australia.

What is the FWA Conference?

Building on the incredible success of the 2023 GCUC conference, FWA brings together a diverse community of coworking newbies, industry veterans, investors, and real estate giants. Our goal is simple: to support the industry while ensuring you’re constantly learning, growing and evolving.

How Do I Sponsor the Event?

We have a variety of sponsorship opportunities available. Click here for more information.

What is Your Refund / Cancellation Policy?

No refunds will be granted, except in the case of cancellation of the event. Refunds may be granted for exceptional circumstances notified to the FWA, at the FWA’s discretion.

If granted, a full refund will be given, less Eventbrite’s processing fee, for any cancellations notified to the FWA prior to 11.59pm on 21 July 2025. In order to cancel your registration, please email Mary at hello@directories.webocation.org.

For any cancellations made after this time, no refund will be given.

Registrations can be transferred if notified to the FWA prior to 11.59pm on 21 July 2025. In order to transfer your registration, please email Mary at hello@directories.webocation.org with details of who you will be transferring your registration to. A processing fee shall apply to any transfers. No transfers will be permitted after this time.

Can I Volunteer?

Yes, we have a limited number of volunteer positions available. Please reach out to Mary at hello@directories.webocation.org to express your interest

Where Should I Stay?

If you are looking for accommodation close to the conference venue, there are a few selected hotels that have offered a discount rate. Visit the accommodation section here to access the discount code.

What are Your Transport Recommendations to Get to the Conference?

Public transport is the best option. Central Train station is 5 minutes walk – there is direct access from Post Office Square which is where you will find the entrance to 260 Queen St.

Where Can I Park?

Post Office Square:
Located at 223-235 Adelaide Street
24-7 access

Wintergarden:
Located at 162 Elizabeth Street
24-7 access

Map available here

Is There a Dress Code for the FWA Awards Welcome Party?

Business casual.

More Questions?

“Coming together with our Flexible Workspace community reminds us why this industry is so great. A great atmosphere, filled with passionate people really reminds us that we are part of something wonderful with an exciting future ahead of us. Thanks FWA team, see you next year!”

Rana Smithlee

Flexioffices

“Great day connecting with likeminded coworking operators across Australia, and getting insights into international ecosystems. A must add to your calendar!”

Lauren Quinn

Spacecubed

“Great  conference with like minded professionals and excellent insights into our growing industry.”

Clinton Selby

Genius Coworking

“It was a brilliant event with a really strong line up of speakers. I took away a lot of great insights which I will be able to share with my teams and implement.”

Matt Hilton

Hub Australia

Ready to elevate your brand and connect with industry leaders?

Gain direct access to a vibrant community of workspace owners, operators, investors, vendors, designers and enthusiasts eager to network and explore new opportunities. As an event sponsor, your brand will be aligned with future-focused decision makers and senior business leaders. If you would like to sponsor or partner with FWA download the prospectus here.

worklife blog

Venue Partner

workspace365 logo

WITH THANKS TO OUR 2025 CONFERENCE SPONSORS

snack proud logo
Collective maintenance services
Nespresso Professional
spacebring logo
recap logo
logitech logo
neospace logo
hoxton mix logo

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT JOINING FWA

NOT A MEMBER?

Find out more about FWA membership benefits, exclusive offers and pricing.

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