Westfield Miranda has unveiled a dedicated small business hub on its top floor, offering affordable co-working space and business support services to entrepreneurs across the Sutherland Shire.

The 500-square-metre space, named “The Shire Hub,” features hot desks, private offices, meeting rooms, and a dedicated podcast studio. Monthly memberships start at $299, significantly below typical Sydney commercial rates.

“We wanted to create something that actually helps local businesses, not just another overpriced co-working space,” said centre manager Angela Petropoulos. “The Shire has so much entrepreneurial talent, but people were commuting to the city just to find decent workspace.”

Facilities and Services

The hub offers more than just desks:

• 40 hot desk positions with 24/7 access
• 12 private offices for teams of 2-6 people
• Three meeting rooms with video conferencing
• Professional podcast and video recording studio
• Dedicated quiet work zones
• Complimentary coffee and tea facilities
• Secure mail handling and business address services

Members also receive discounts at participating Westfield retailers and restaurants, plus free parking validation for up to four hours daily.

Business Support Programs

Beyond physical space, The Shire Hub has partnered with Business NSW to offer free monthly workshops on topics including marketing, financial management, and legal compliance.

“Getting the space was just the start,” explained Petropoulos. “We’ve built relationships with accountants, lawyers, and marketing specialists who volunteer their time to help our members succeed.”

The hub’s launch event attracted over 150 local business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. Among them was Cronulla resident Sarah Mitchell, who runs a sustainable swimwear brand.

“I’ve been working from my kitchen table for two years,” Mitchell said. “Having a proper space to meet with suppliers and take professional photos of my products is going to change everything.”

Early Membership Numbers

Within two weeks of opening, The Shire Hub had reached 60% capacity, with particularly strong interest from:

• E-commerce businesses needing warehouse-adjacent workspace
• Freelance professionals seeking escape from home offices
• Early-stage startups looking for affordable meeting space
• Remote workers employed by city-based companies

Plans for Growth

Scentre Group, which operates Westfield centres, is monitoring The Shire Hub’s performance as a potential model for other locations. Similar spaces are being considered for Westfield Hurstville and Bondi Junction.

“Retail centres need to evolve,” said Petropoulos. “We can’t just be places people come to shop. We need to be community hubs where people work, socialise, and build businesses.”

The Shire Hub is accepting new membership applications through its website. Tours are available Monday to Friday between 10am and 4pm.