Bigger office shortage a hindrance to growth and sea-change potential for Margaret River region

A lack of mid-sized office space could be hindering economic growth and the chance for more companies to make a sea change to the Margaret River region. The issue came under the spotlight last week when Carbon Farming Foundation, which already has workers in Margaret River, put out a call for office space catering to up to 20 employees. Directors Norman Pater, Lachy Ritchie and Bob Ledger, who are based in Margaret River, said the lack of medium-sized office premises hindered the not-for-profit’s goal to grow its business while offering workers the chance to live in a desirable location. “To be able to continue its locally-based recruitment efforts, the CFF needs at least 200sqm of office space to accommodate 15-25 staff for a minimum of two years,” the directors said. “CFF has grown from three to 15 staff in its first year of operations and expects to need 20 staff before the end of 2022. “Over a longer term five-to-10-year horizon, the CFF will employ up to 80 Margaret River-based staff to provide consulting services and remote support for carbon projects across Australia.” The company hoped to establish a secure base so it could also lure skilled workers willing to relocate to the region. “This growth trajectory is being held back by a lack of suitable office space available in Margaret River,” the company said. Margaret River Chamber of Commerce spokeswoman Barbara Maidment said all new businesses were welcome to the region and added “vibrancy and stability to our economy, particularly where there are new job opportunities”. But the chamber said a lack of office space was compounded by few housing options for incoming workers. “Bigger businesses moving in should scope the area carefully and be prepared to invest in the town’s infrastructure by building appropriate premises,” Dr Maidment said. “The chamber believes that premises are a private sector issue, guided primarily by demand.” While acknowledging a shortfall in suitable office space, the chamber said economic downturn and difficulties produced by the pandemic meant it was “not surprising” the private sector had not invested in bigger office complexes when shops and smaller premises had stood vacant for up to two years. A local builder, who asked not to be identified, said the economic climate and red tape in the planning sector meant few were motivated to invest in bigger offices when the returns were unreliable and poor. Dr Maidment said CFF might be best served striking a development deal with a private-sector operator. “Savvy landowners will build to the specifications of a solid, long-term tenant, as has always been the case,” she said. Potential landlords were asked to contact via clare@carbonfarming.org.au or 0419 194 478.