Keeping an office clean is no longer an optional task for businesses in Melbourne. It is a critical factor that affects employee wellbeing, productivity, and how clients perceive your brand. When customers walk into a spotless office, they feel confident in your professionalism. When employees sit at clean desks and use hygienic facilities, they work better and take fewer sick days.
In this in-depth guide, we will explore everything about office cleaning in Melbourne: the cost, what services are included, the differences between office and commercial cleaning, and why investing in a professional cleaner is one of the smartest business decisions you can make.
One of the first questions most businesses ask is, "How much will this cost me?" The answer depends on the size of the space, the frequency of cleaning, and the type of services you require.
On average, Melbourne businesses can expect to pay $30 to $50 per hour for professional office cleaning. Smaller offices might pay as little as $60–$100 per visit, while larger corporations can spend upwards of $400 per session.
While some companies are tempted to choose the cheapest cleaner available, it is important to remember that poor cleaning can cost more in the long run. Dirty offices increase absenteeism, create negative impressions, and can even lead to health and safety issues.
If you are looking at hiring cleaners based on an hourly rate, Melbourne professionals typically charge $30–$45 per hour.
According to the Fair Work Ombudsman, the minimum pay rate for cleaners in Australia is around $23–$25 per hour. Professional cleaning companies charge higher because they include overheads like insurance, staff training, and equipment.
Many people use these terms interchangeably, but they are not always the same.
Commercial cleaning covers a wide range of businesses, from retail stores to warehouses, gyms, and hospitals. These jobs often require specialised knowledge and equipment, such as industrial scrubbers or biohazard disposal.
Office cleaning focuses specifically on professional workspaces. This usually includes desk sanitisation, rubbish removal, kitchen cleaning, and maintaining communal areas such as lobbies and meeting rooms.
If your business is purely an office, hiring an office cleaner ensures you only pay for what you need. If you run a warehouse or medical clinic, you will need a commercial cleaner with additional training.
A professional Melbourne office cleaner does much more than vacuum floors. Typical inclusions are:
These tasks can be customised based on your needs and budget.
When you hire an office cleaner, you expect more than just basic tidying. Their role is to create a safe and hygienic workplace.
A truly professional cleaner is consistent, discreet, and reliable, ensuring the office is ready for business every morning.
The words "janitor" and "office cleaner" are sometimes confused.
| Janitor | Office Cleaner |
|---|---|
| Typically employed full-time | Usually engaged on a contract or part-time basis |
| Often responsible for building maintenance and a wide range of tasks beyond cleaning | Focusing solely on cleaning and hygiene tasks |
This distinction is important when drafting contracts and setting expectations.
Industrial cleaning is a separate field altogether. It involves factories, plants, and production facilities that require the removal of heavy dirt, grease, or hazardous waste.
By contrast, commercial cleaning deals with workspaces like offices, retail outlets, and hospitality venues. If you run a standard office in Melbourne, you will almost always require commercial office cleaning rather than industrial services.
The answer depends on your workplace type and traffic levels.
Large corporate offices, shared coworking spaces, or any workplace with high daily traffic.
Small professional offices with low staff numbers.
Carpets, upholstery, air vents, and windows should be addressed at least once a month.
Failing to maintain regular cleaning leads to the accumulation of dust, bacteria, and clutter, which can hurt both employee health and morale.
Having a structured cleaning plan ensures nothing is overlooked.
Not all cleaners are equal. A good office cleaner is:
They deliver the same high standard every time.
Offices often require after-hours access, so reliability is vital.
Knowledge of products, equipment, and workplace safety.
Able to adapt to special requests or unexpected changes.
A clean office is about more than appearances.
Cluttered, dirty environments distract workers. Clean offices foster focus and efficiency.
Regular cleaning reduces allergens, bacteria, and the spread of illness, meaning fewer sick days.
A spotless reception area or meeting room immediately signals professionalism and competence.
In short, cleanliness impacts your bottom line through both staff performance and customer confidence.
Asking these questions ensures you partner with the right cleaning provider.
Office cleaning in Melbourne is not just about appearances. It plays a direct role in employee health, productivity, and client trust. Whether you are a startup or a large corporation, investing in professional cleaning pays off in ways that go beyond a tidy desk. From understanding costs and services to recognising the value of a skilled cleaner, the right choice can transform your workplace.