Establishing a network of digital work hubs across South-East Queensland could provide the catalyst for revitalising suburban and regional areas by attracting businesses and knowledge workers who choose to live there, according to a research report to be launched on 6 December.
The key findings and recommendations from the report ‘Digital Work Hubs: An Activation Framework for South East Queensland’ are the result of a year-long collaborative project between five Regional Development Australia (RDA) committees (Sunshine Coast, Moreton Bay, Logan/Redland, Brisbane and the Gold Coast).
Digital Work Hubs are vibrant workspaces equipped with the latest information and telecommunication technology, meeting room facilities, event space, kitchens and cafes.
“These workspaces are digitally connected, exciting and ‘Google-esque’ in style,” RDA Sunshine Coast CEO Russell Mason said.
“They allow independent workers such as freelancers, consultants, home-based business operators as well as employees from large private and public organisations to work in a collaborative, creative and connected environment which is close to their home.”
Mr Mason said the Digital Work Hub research project provided the opportunity to capture the productivity and social gains from offering these workers the opportunity to work close to home rather than having to live near head office.
“While teleworking from home is now well established, collaborative workspaces are a rapidly emerging area.”
Mr Mason said the aim of the Digital Work Hub Project was to examine the opportunities and challenges for establishing a network of digital work hubs across South-East Queensland (SEQ).
Download the RDA Digital Work Hub Project Final Report Dec 2013