What Is a Donga? Everything You Need to Know About Perth’s Popular Portable Structures

If you’ve spent time in Perth or regional Western Australia, you may have heard the term “portable donga” thrown around, especially in conversations about housing or worksites. 

But what exactly is a donga, and why are they becoming so popular?

In short, dongas are transportable, prefabricated structures commonly used for temporary accommodation, particularly in remote or industrial areas.

They offer an affordable and convenient solution for workers, businesses, and even homeowners looking for extra space. 

But there’s much more to these innovative space-savers.

This article will explore the different types of dongas, their uses, benefits, and why they are essential to Western Australia’s landscape.

In Perth and across Western Australia, this term refers to a transportable, prefabricated building typically used for temporary accommodation or worksite facilities. 

These structures are built off-site and then transported to their location, offering a quick, efficient, and cost-effective solution for various housing and workspace needs.

This is more than just a transportable structure—it’s a practical and versatile solution for various accommodation and workspace needs. 

Types of Portable Dongas

• Single-room – Compact units designed for individual accommodation, often found in mining camps.
• Multi-room – Larger units that can house multiple people, ideal for workforce housing or family accommodation.
• Offices – Customised for workspaces, these units have desks, air conditioning, and internet connectivity.
• Ablution dongas – Designed with showers, toilets, and laundry facilities to support remote communities or work camps.
• Custom solutions – Built to specific requirements, including extra insulation, kitchenettes, or additional storage space.

Advantages

✔ Cost-effective – More affordable than traditional buildings, with minimal setup costs.

✔ Portable – Easily transported and installed in remote or urban locations.

✔ Quick installation – Ready for use in days, compared to months for permanent structures.

✔ Customisable – Can be modified to suit various needs, from basic accommodation to fully-equipped offices.

✔ Durable – Built to withstand harsh Australian weather conditions.

✔ Eco-friendly options – Some builds have sustainable features such as solar panels and water-saving systems.

Challenges

• Limited space – Compact designs may not be suitable for long-term living.
• Temperature control – Without proper insulation, they can get too hot in summer and too cold in winter.
• Council approvals – Some areas in Perth may have restrictions on placing dongas on residential properties.
• Aesthetic limitations – While functional, they may not match the visual appeal of traditional homes.

As Perth’s demand for flexible accommodation grows, these portable buildings continue to provide a practical, cost-effective solution for various industries and individuals. 

POPULAR: Donga Pros and Cons

Key Features

A standard donga typically includes:

• Steel frame construction for durability.
• Insulated walls and ceilings to withstand Perth’s extreme temperatures.
• Air conditioning and heating for comfort.
• Electrical and plumbing systems for self-sufficient use.
• Windows and ventilation for airflow and natural light.
• Modular design for easy expansion or relocation.

Their versatility extends far beyond work camps and temporary accommodations. 

These modular, transportable buildings have become increasingly popular in various industries, offering a cost-effective and flexible solution for a wide range of applications.

1. Tourism and Camping Accommodations

Many eco-resorts, caravan parks, and glamping sites use them to provide comfortable yet portable lodging for visitors.

• Eco-Friendly Lodges – Some eco-tourism destinations incorporate solar-powered dongas with water-saving features to minimise their environmental impact.
• Glamping (Luxury Camping) – High-end buildings with stylish interiors, air-conditioning, and private bathrooms offer a more comfortable experience than traditional camping.
• Backpacker and Budget Accommodations – Hostels and motels in remote areas often use portable buildings to expand their accommodation capacity without the high costs of permanent construction.

2. Disaster Relief & Emergency Housing

They play a crucial role in emergency response efforts, providing temporary housing and essential facilities after natural disasters such as floods, bushfires, or cyclones. 

Their portability and quick installation make them ideal for disaster-stricken areas where immediate shelter is needed.

• Government and Aid Agency Use – Organisations deploy them as part of emergency relief programs.
• Temporary Housing for Displaced Communities – When homes are lost due to natural disasters, they serve as interim housing until reconstruction is complete.

3. Education and Training Facilities

Educational institutions and training centres use them to address space shortages and create flexible learning environments.

• Additional Classrooms – Schools facing increasing student populations can quickly expand with portable dongas.
• University and TAFE Campuses – Some higher education institutions use them for lecture halls, research labs, and student accommodations.
• Trade and Vocational Training – They are commonly used in trade schools and apprenticeship programs as practical training spaces.

4. Event Spaces and Temporary Offices

They are frequently used for temporary events, providing functional spaces for offices, ticket booths, first-aid stations, and VIP lounges.

• Music Festivals and Sporting Events – Event organisers use them for backstage areas, dressing rooms, and administrative offices.
• Construction Site Offices – Contractors set up on-site offices equipped with workstations, meeting rooms, and communication systems.
• Pop-Up Retail Spaces – Businesses use customised builds as mobile showrooms, pop-up shops, or promotional booths.

5. Affordable Housing Solutions

With the rising cost of housing in Australia, many people are turning to these portable buildings as an affordable and flexible living option.

• Granny Flats and Backyard Studios – Homeowners use them to create extra living space for family members, guest accommodations, or rental income.
• Off-Grid and Sustainable Homes – Some people convert them into permanent, eco-friendly tiny homes with solar power and rainwater harvesting.
• Low-Income Housing Initiatives – Charities and community groups use them to provide affordable housing solutions for vulnerable populations.

6. Healthcare and Medical Facilities

The healthcare sector also benefits from their portability and adaptability, using them as medical clinics and quarantine facilities.

• Remote Area Clinics – They serve as medical centres in rural communities where permanent healthcare facilities are limited.
• COVID-19 and Quarantine Facilities – During the pandemic, they were widely used for isolation wards and testing centres.
• Mobile Health Units – Customised builds can be outfitted as dental clinics, vaccination centres, or mental health counselling spaces.

7. Agriculture and Rural Applications

Farmers and agribusinesses use them to house seasonal workers, store equipment, and establish mobile offices.

• Farm Worker Accommodation – They provide cost-effective housing for seasonal harvest workers.
• Storage and Processing Units – Some farms use them for food processing, packing, or refrigeration.
• Field Offices – Agricultural businesses set them up as operational hubs in remote locations.

8. Military and Defense Use

The military frequently employs these portable buildings for barracks, training centres, and field offices during operations and exercises.

• Deployable Army Barracks – Portable dongas can be rapidly deployed as sleeping quarters for troops.
• Command and Control Centers – Some options serve as operational command posts with communication and surveillance equipment.
• Mess Halls and Sanitation Units – Ablution dongas with showers and toilets support personnel in remote military bases.

Environmental Considerations

They are designed to withstand diverse environmental conditions, but it’s essential to assess your intended location’s specific climate and terrain.

• Climate Adaptation: Perth experiences hot summers and mild winters. Ensure your donga is equipped with adequate insulation and ventilation to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures year-round.
• Site Assessment: Evaluate the terrain for stability, drainage, and accessibility. Proper site preparation can prevent issues related to moisture accumulation and structural integrity.

Available Sizes and Configurations

They come in various sizes and layouts to suit different needs.

• Standard Dimensions: Common sizes range from 3.6 meters by 3 meters to larger units measuring 14.4 meters by 3 meters.
• Customisation: Depending on the manufacturer, they can be customised with additional features such as ensuite bathrooms, kitchenettes, or office setups to meet specific requirements.

Best Practices and Recommendations

To maximise their utility and longevity, consider the following recommendations:

• Quality Materials: Opt for buildings constructed with durable materials that comply with Australian building standards.
• Professional Installation: Engage qualified professionals to transport and install the donga to ensure safety and compliance with local regulations.
• Regular Maintenance: Implement a maintenance schedule to address wear and tear, ensuring the building remains in optimal condition.

Regulations, Permits, and Approvals

Portable building requires adherence to local building codes and regulations.

• Building Permits: A building permit is generally required for the construction, renovation, alteration, or improvement of a building. Applications can be submitted as either certified or uncertified, depending on the classification of the building.
• Planning Approvals: Depending on the location and intended use, planning approval from the local council may be necessary. It’s advisable to consult with the City of Perth or relevant local government authorities to determine specific requirements.
• Compliance with Building Codes: Ensure that the portable donga complies with the National Construction Code and any other relevant Australian Standards.

When it comes to high-quality, reliable, and compliant portable dongas in Perth, Portable Buildings WA is the industry leader you can trust. 

With years of experience delivering top-tier portable accommodation and workspace solutions, we understand the unique challenges and requirements of Western Australia’s industries and homeowners.

Our team is committed to helping you find the perfect solution tailored to your needs—for a mining site, a backyard office, or a temporary living space.

Contact Portable Buildings WA today at (08) 9393 4855 or claim your fast and FREE quote online to save time and money.