How Much Do Dongas Cost in Perth? 2025 Price Guide

When you’re planning to invest in a donga for your site or project, one of the first questions you’ll likely ask is, “How much will it cost?” 

This question is essential for budgeting and ensuring your investment aligns with both your needs and financial goals.

Dongas, often used as temporary accommodations or site offices, offer a practical and cost-effective solution for various industries, from mining to construction. But understanding their pricing requires a closer look at the many variables involved.

In this article, we’ll cover:

• Key factors that influence donga costs in Perth.
• A detailed breakdown of costs for purchasing or hiring a donga.
• Practical cost-saving tips for affordable donga solutions.
• How to choose the best service provider to maximise value for money.

By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear understanding of what to expect when budgeting for a donga.

Size and Layout of the Donga

The size and internal layout of the donga significantly impact its cost. Larger portable buildings naturally require more materials, labour, and time to construct, making them pricier than smaller units.

• Single-room units: Compact and cost-efficient, these are often used as basic site offices or single-person accommodations.
• Multi-room configurations: These offer added functionality, such as shared living spaces, kitchens, or bathrooms, but come with higher costs.

The complexity of the internal layout also affects the price. A donga with separate rooms or en-suites will cost more than a simple, open-plan design.

RELATED: Portable Offices vs. Flatpack Offices (A Comparison)

Material Quality and Construction Standards

High-quality materials and adherence to strict construction standards can drive up costs, but they also ensure durability and safety.

• Premium materials: Insulated panels, high-grade steel, and weather-resistant coatings increase the price but are essential for long-term use in harsh conditions.
• Compliance with regulations: Models built to meet Australian Standards for safety and sustainability may have higher upfront costs but offer peace of mind and lower maintenance expenses over time.

Customisation and Additional Features

Customised portable buildings tailored to specific needs often come with a higher price tag. Optional features can range from aesthetic upgrades to functional enhancements.

• Interior fit-outs: Adding air conditioning, built-in furniture, or specialised lighting increases costs.
• Exterior modifications: Extras like awnings, decks, or solar panels also add to the price.
• Specialised use: Custom designs for medical units, labs, or mobile classrooms can significantly raise the overall cost due to specialised equipment and layouts.

Transport and Delivery Costs

The logistics of transporting and delivering a donga in Perth can influence its total cost.

• Distance from supplier: The farther the delivery location, the higher the transportation costs.
• Accessibility of the site: Remote or hard-to-reach locations may require special equipment, adding to the expense.

It’s wise to get a clear quote from the supplier, including delivery costs, to avoid unexpected charges.

Condition: New vs. Used Dongas

Whether you opt for a brand-new donga or a used one can make a significant difference in cost.

• New: These come with the latest features, materials, and warranties, but they are more expensive upfront.
• Used: A budget-friendly option, though they may require repairs or refurbishments, which can add to overall costs.

While used dongas are cheaper, ensure they are inspected for structural integrity and compliance with safety standards.

Hire Duration or Purchase Terms

If you’re hiring a donga, the length of the rental agreement plays a major role in cost.

• Short-term hire: Often more expensive on a weekly basis, ideal for temporary projects.
• Long-term hire: Comes with discounted rates, offering better value for extended use.
• Purchase options: While purchasing may seem costly initially, it can be more economical in the long run for projects requiring permanent installations.

They are the most affordable option, commonly used as temporary site offices or single-occupant accommodations.

These units provide essential facilities but are typically smaller and have minimal customisation.

Multi-Room

They offer additional space and functionality, making them ideal for shared living or team offices.

These units often feature separate rooms, bathrooms, or kitchenettes, which contribute to their higher cost.

Customised Solutions

They are tailored to specific needs, offering specialised layouts and features for unique purposes, such as medical units or classrooms.

The price can vary significantly depending on the level of personalisation and specialised equipment.

Additional Features

Optional features like air conditioning, solar panels, or upgraded interiors can raise the cost.

Common Add-Ons

• Air conditioning: $1,000 – $3,000
• Solar panels: $2,000 – $5,000
• Decks or awnings: $1,500 – $4,000
• Built-in furniture: $1,000 – $3,000

While these features add to the upfront cost, they can improve comfort and functionality, especially for long-term use.

Mobile Dongas

They are designed for easy relocation, often used on mining or construction sites.

Their portability makes them slightly more expensive than stationary dongas, but they offer flexibility for dynamic work environments.

#1 – Opt for Used or Refurbished Dongas

Purchasing a used or refurbished donga can save you a substantial amount compared to buying a new one.

• Inspection is key: Ensure the donga is inspected for structural integrity and compliance with safety standards.
• Refurbishment: Choose suppliers that offer refurbished options with updated features at a lower price point.
• Long-term suitability: Assess whether the used donga meets your needs to avoid additional costs for modifications.

#2 – Compare Quotes from Multiple Suppliers

Not all suppliers offer the same pricing for similar products. Shopping around can reveal better deals.

• Request detailed quotes: Ensure quotes include all potential costs, such as transport and additional features.
• Look for package deals: Some suppliers offer discounts for bulk orders or extended hire periods.
• Negotiate: Don’t hesitate to negotiate for better pricing or added value, such as free delivery or included add-ons.

#3 – Choose Standard Configurations

Customisation adds significantly to costs, so opting for standard models can keep expenses down.

• Assess your needs: Only pay for features you truly need.
• Upgrades later: Select a basic model initially and upgrade later if required.

#4 – Maximise the Use of Rental Options

If your need for a donga is short-term, hiring is often the more economical choice.

• Hire for temporary projects: Renting a donga for short-term use is much cheaper than buying outright.
• Negotiate long-term hire rates: If your project extends, many suppliers offer discounted rates for extended rental periods.

#5 – Plan Delivery and Installation Efficiently

Delivery and installation can quickly become expensive if not planned carefully.

• Choose local suppliers: Reduce transport costs by sourcing a supplier near your location in Perth.
• Site preparation: Ensure the site is ready for installation to avoid delays or additional setup costs.

#6 – Perform Regular Maintenance

Preventive maintenance helps you avoid costly repairs down the line.

• Inspect frequently: Look for signs of wear, such as leaks, rust, or damage to structural components.
• Service utilities: Maintain air conditioning units, plumbing, and electrical systems to extend their lifespan.
• Use durable materials: Opt for high-quality materials during purchase to reduce maintenance needs.

#7 -Consider Rent-to-Own Agreements

For long-term projects, rent-to-own agreements can provide the flexibility of renting with the benefits of ownership.

• Avoid upfront costs: Spread payments over time, reducing the financial burden.
• Ownership benefits: At the end of the agreement, you’ll own the donga, making it a cost-effective option for extended use.

Key Cost Factors:

• Size, layout, and materials significantly impact pricing.
• Customisation and additional features can add to the overall cost.
• Transport, delivery, and whether the donga is new or used also affect expenses.

Average Price Ranges:

• Basic single-room: $10,000 – $20,000 for new, $5,000 – $10,000 for used; $50 – $100 per week for hire.
• Multi-room: $25,000 – $50,000 for new, $15,000 – $30,000 for used; $150 – $300 per week for hire.
• Customised solutions: Starting from $20,000, with advanced models exceeding $50,000; $100 – $300+ per week for hire.

Cost-Saving Tips:

• Opt for used dongas or hire for short-term projects.
• Compare quotes, plan delivery efficiently, and prioritise preventive maintenance.

Choosing a Provider:

• Look for experience, product quality, transparent pricing, and strong customer support.
• Local expertise can offer added value for projects in Perth.

With prices ranging from $10,000 to $50,000 for purchase or $50 to $300 per week for hire, you have options to suit your budget.

When it comes to quality, expertise, and reliability, your choice of portable building partner can be a make-or-break decision.

Avoid the pitfalls of hidden costs or subpar quality by choosing a provider committed to excellence. At Portable Buildings WA, we’re here to help you navigate your options and ensure you make an informed decision that delivers long-term value.

Whether you’re planning a small project or a large-scale operation, our team is ready to assist you with personalised advice and competitive quotes.

Contact Portable Buildings WA today on (08) 9393 4855 or claim your fast and FREE quote online now.