Need a quick, reliable building solution for your site? A donga might be exactly what you’re looking for. Built tough and ready to go, dongas are used across WA for everything from site offices to accommodation and lunchrooms.
But not every project needs the same setup. Picking the right size, layout and features from the start can save you time, money and headaches later on. Here’s what to know before you lock one in.
What Exactly is a ‘Donga’?
A donga is a transportable, demountable building used widely across Australia for temporary site infrastructure. It’s a general slang term that covers a range of portable buildings, such as site offices, lunchrooms, and even accommodation units. Most people just call them dongas because it’s quicker and easier.
Common in the mining, construction and government sectors, dongas are built off-site, delivered ready to go, and designed to handle tough conditions. They’re a smart alternative to permanent builds when speed, flexibility and compliance are key.
Types of Dongas Available
At Instant Transportable Offices, we offer a wide range of layouts and sizes to suit different job types and site conditions.
1. Open Plan
A flexible setup with space to move and rearrange.
- Ideal for admin teams, meetings, or shared desk space
- Quick to deploy and easy to furnish
- Popular sizes: 3.6m x 2.4m, 6m x 3m, 9.6m x 3m
2. Two-Room Layout
When you need a bit of separation or dual use.
- Common for supervisor/staff split
- Office + storage or private meeting spaces
- Also can suit short-term accommodation setups (although we recommend our Modular Accommodation Units for this need)
- Typical size: 6m x 3m with internal wall
3. Split / Partitioned Layout
For multi-purpose or high-traffic use.
- Commonly used for training, interviews, first aid or admin
- Helps manage flow, noise and privacy
- Often custom-built to suit specific operations
Read more on layouts, floorplans and choosing the right size in our blog What to Know About Sizes and Layouts When Buying a Donga.
What to Consider When Choosing a Donga
Not every site needs the same setup. Choosing the right donga comes down to what you’re using it for, how long you’ll need it, and where it’s going. Here are the key things to look at before making a call.
1. Purpose of Use
Start with the job. Is it for a project manager’s office, a crew lunchroom, or somewhere to sleep? The function will guide the size, layout and internal fit-out.
2. Site Conditions
Remote location? Cyclone region? Dust, heat, or tough access? Make sure your donga is built to handle it. All ITO units are engineered to meet NCC standards and can be customised to comply with Region D Cyclonic Zones.
3. Layout Requirements
Again, think about how the space will be used day-to-day.
- Open plan: great for shared spaces
- Two-room or split layouts: better for privacy or mixed use
- Need desks, shelving, or extra doors? Layouts can be modified to suit.
4. Size
Bigger isn’t always better. Match the size to your available space and how many people will be using it. Sizes range from compact 3.6m units to large 9.6m x 3m setups. All delivered ready to use.
5. Services & Connections
All ITO dongas come fitted with reverse cycle air conditioning, lighting and power. If you need plumbing, data points or extra service access, these can be factored in before delivery.
6. Hire or Buy
Short-term project? Hiring might make more sense.
Long-term or ongoing use? Buying gives you full control and better value over time.
We also offer a flexible hire-to-buy option if you’re not ready to commit upfront. Instant Transportable Offices supports all three with ready-to-go stock, fast quoting, and delivery across WA.
We cover this topic in more detail in our blog Hiring vs Buying Portable Offices: Which is Better?
How We Customise Dongas for WA Projects
Instant Transportable Offices supplies dongas that are built for Western Australian conditions and tailored to suit the job at hand. Whether you need a single office, multi-room layout or a more specialised fit-out, our team can deliver a solution that’s ready to work.
We offer internal modifications such as partition walls, extra windows, service access points, and layout changes based on how the building will be used. All units come standard with reverse cycle air conditioning, LED lighting, power outlets and insulated panel construction.
For sites in high-wind or cyclone-prone areas, we offer full structural upgrades including certified tie-down systems, reinforced flooring, and galvanised steel framing. Units can also be configured for specific operational needs such as display suites, sales offices or long-term site use.
Every unit is manufactured to meet the National Construction Code and can be supplied to meet ISO certification requirements where required.
Let’s Find the Right Donga for Your Site
Hopefully this guide has made it easier to understand what to look for when choosing a donga and how to match it to your project.
At Instant Transportable Offices, we supply dongas for sale, built locally and ready to go. If you’ve got questions, need help with a quote, or want advice on your site setup, give us a call on 1300 315 950 or contact us online. Our team’s here to help you get it sorted.
Managing Director at Instant Transportable Offices
Scott Rawson is the Managing Director of Instant Products Group, a specialist group of companies that offer portable building solutions, including sea containers, transportable offices, and portable sanitation products. With more than 20 years of experience in various management positions and a finalist in the WA Business News 40 under 40 awards in 2013, Scott is a highly motivated entrepreneur that has a passion for designing products to suit the needs of individual markets. From the creation of Instant Products Group over 20 years ago, he has successfully grown the group into a multi-million dollar corporation and his success is widely recognised in Western Australia. Scott is dedicated to expanding Instant Products Group nationally and providing high-quality products to a range of sectors, including mining, engineering, property development, and government.