Last reviewed: 1 August 2026 by the Ozbuyz Store Editorial Team.
Quick answer: Treat the home office as a workstation, not a furniture bundle. Assess work tasks and hazards, choose adjustable equipment, fit the chair and desk to the user, position screens and input devices comfortably, control lighting and cables, and plan movement and breaks.
Safe Work Australia states that work health and safety duties can apply when people work from home. Employers and workers should consult about risks, equipment and controls under the relevant jurisdiction.
1. Assess the work
- computer hours and task variation
- phone, document, video and meeting needs
- manual handling or storage
- noise, privacy and household interruptions
- lighting, heat, ventilation and electrical safety
- psychosocial risks and ability to disconnect
Use the employer’s working-from-home process and request an assessment where discomfort, disability or complex work requires it.
2. Choose and adjust the chair
The chair should fit the user and work surface. Compare height range, seat depth, back and lumbar adjustment, armrests, tilt, stability and load. See the office-chair buying guide.
3. Choose the desk from equipment and reach
Do not rely on a universal 60 cm depth or 73–75 cm height. List the monitor, laptop, keyboard, mouse, documents and other equipment, then choose a work surface that provides comfortable viewing and reach with safe leg space. Adjustable desks can help multiple users but still require correct setup.
4. Position screens and input devices
- Place the primary screen directly ahead.
- Set it at a comfortable reading distance, commonly around arm’s length but adjustable for screen and vision.
- Position the screen around eye level or slightly below, adjusted for eyewear and task.
- Keep keyboard and mouse close enough for relaxed shoulders and neutral wrists.
- For sustained laptop use, use a separate keyboard and mouse when the screen is raised.
- Adjust font, contrast and brightness rather than leaning forward.
5. Control lighting, cables and electrical risks
Position the workstation to limit glare and reflections. Use task lighting without shining directly into the eyes or screen. Keep leads out of walkways, do not overload outlets and arrange licensed electrical work for fixed changes.
6. Move and vary the work
Comcare and WorkSafe guidance emphasise reducing prolonged static posture and moving regularly. A sit–stand desk can provide variation, but standing continuously is not the goal. Alternate tasks, change posture, look away from screens and take appropriate breaks.
7. Storage and furniture safety
Keep frequently used items within easy reach. Anchor bookcases and cabinets according to ACCC guidance and avoid loading heavy items high. Preserve exits and prevent trip hazards.
8. Working-from-home tax records
The ATO states that eligible workers may claim certain additional running expenses and decline in value of work equipment, subject to work use, apportionment and records. Methods and rates can change. Use the current ATO page or professional tax advice rather than relying on an old article.
Browse office furniture, desks, office chairs and home-office accessories.
Frequently asked questions
What should I buy first?
Assess the tasks and existing equipment first. The chair and work surface need to be selected together for the user rather than by a universal purchase order.
What desk depth do I need?
Enough for a comfortable screen distance, input devices and documents without crowding. Measure the actual equipment.
Where should the monitor sit?
Generally directly ahead, at a comfortable distance and around eye level or slightly below, adjusted for the user and task.
Is a standing desk necessary?
No. It can add posture variation, but regular movement and a correctly fitted workstation matter more than the label.
Can home-office furniture be tax deductible?
Potentially, through decline-in-value or other eligible working-from-home rules. Check the current ATO requirements and keep appropriate records.
Research and review method
This guide was reviewed against current Safe Work Australia, Comcare, WorkSafe Queensland and ATO information.