Think Offshore is Safe? Think Again. Why Smart Aussie Businesses are Turning to Local Virtual Assistants

For years, offshore Virtual Assistants have been marketed as the affordable, no-fuss solution for small business owners. With lower hourly rates and a flood of platforms offering access to global freelancers, it’s no surprise many businesses took the bait.

But here’s what most people weren’t told:

Offshore support might look cheaper upfront – but it can come with hidden costs, compliance risks, and communication breakdowns that end up costing far more than you bargained for.

And now, thanks to a recent Fair Work Commission ruling, it comes with legal risk too.

What just happened – and why it matters to you

In a game-changing 2024 decision, the Fair Work Commission ruled that a Filipino Virtual Assistant – hired by an Australian company as a contractor – was actually an employee under Australian law.

Despite being based overseas, the nature of the working relationship (set hours, direct control, integration into the business) meant that the contractor arrangement didn’t hold up. The business was deemed responsible for employee entitlements like minimum wage, leave, and potentially superannuation.

This case sets a powerful precedent.

If your business is working with offshore contractors in a way that feels like employment, there’s now a legal basis for those contractors to claim the rights and protections of an employee – even from overseas.

The offshore illusion is fading fast

What used to be seen as a clever cost-saving strategy is now starting to look like a high-risk move, particularly for micro and small businesses that don’t have HR teams or legal advisors watching over every engagement.

Let’s be honest – working across time zones can slow you down... cultural and language differences can lead to miscommunication, and managing remote workers with limited accountability often means more time fixing mistakes and less time growing your business.

You didn’t start your business to become a compliance expert. You started it to grow, serve your clients, and create more freedom.

That’s why the smartest business owners are rethinking offshore... and choosing onshore instead.

Here’s what you get when you hire local through Find a VA

We only list Australian-based Virtual Assistants who operate as true independent contractors. That means:

✅ You’re not taking on employment risk

✅ They invoice you like any other service provider

✅ They’re fully insured and contract-ready

✅ They understand Australian systems, clients, and compliance

✅ They offer flexible support you can scale up or down as needed

✅ Communication is clear, responsive, and culturally aligned

Most importantly?

They’re business owners too, which means they show up with initiative, professionalism, and are genuinely invested in your success.

This isn’t just a shift – it’s a smarter way to work

The future of business support should never be about chasing the cheapest option... that's a recipe for disaster. Instead, it should be about finding the right person – someone who understands your goals, the type of clients you service, and your industry.

With Find a VA, you can connect with experienced, verified Virtual Assistants across Australia and New Zealand from admin specialists and creative pros, to marketing experts and tech implementers.

If you’re ready for flexible support that delivers real results without the legal grey areas, we’re here to help.

Find a VA. Work smart. Stay compliant. Grow with confidence.