VWA Residency Benefits

Financial

For the access to the space and machinery provided, and the overheads covered (electricity, water, etc) an equivalent workshop rental is valued at $1300 pcm.

VWA Tenancy fees are*:

• Year 1 : $350 per month
• Year 2 : $450 per month
• Year 3 : $550 per month
• Year 4 : 4th year by application, unsubsidised rate, place not guaranteed. $1300 per month

*Please note prices will be increasing as of 1st July 2025 to the following:

• Year 1 : $350 per month
• Year 2 : $500 per month
• Year 3 : $650 per month
• Year 4 : 4th year by application, unsubsidised rate, place not guaranteed. $1300 per month

The VWA does not receive any financial grants to provide this program, but it is made available from VWA membership fees and reduced rent for our premises from Creative Victoria. 

Tenants have 24×7 access to the workshop, including their own dedicated work and bench space, and a well equipped machine room.

Workspace

Your 3.8m x 4.4m workspace is dedicated to you. In this area you are expected to store your tools and equipment, workbench, and conduct your work.

Tools: You are expected to provide your own hand tools, power tools, clamps, consumables (glue, sandpaper etc ..).

Machine room

We have a dedicated workshop maintenance technician on site 2 days per week to ensure the smooth and accurate operation of the heavy equipment. The machine room is well equipped with:

• SawStop Tablesaw
• Panel Saw,
• 2 x Thicknessers
• Jointer
• Docking Saw
• Small Bandsaw
• Large Bandsaw
• Lathe
• Router table
• Dust extraction system

CNC

In addition to the machine room, the VWA also has a CNC machine that is available for use to qualified members.

Office space and kitchenette

The VWA workshop also provides a shared office space with internet access and a kitchenette. Note that a high standard of cleanliness is expected to be maintained at all times.

Sharing with classes

The VWA Woodworking School runs classes throughout the week and on weekends. During this time, students have priority on machinery. It is a requirement for tenants to ensure the machine room and kitchenette are left clean and ready prior to the commencement of classes. The current classes are listed here however please note these are subject to change and don’t include one day workshops or masterclasses that are also held from time to time.