Why Hiring Offshore Virtual Assistants Could Be Risky for Australian Businesses
- Kelly-Maree Bond
- Jul 8
- 2 min read
The Appeal of Offshore Virtual Assistants — But at What Cost?
Outsourcing to offshore virtual assistants (VAs) might seem like a clever way to reduce costs and improve efficiency. But for Australian small businesses, a recent Fair Work ruling is a wake-up call.
In June 2025, the Fair Work Commission ruled that Joanna Pascua, a paralegal based in the Philippines but working remotely for a Brisbane firm was entitled to Australian workplace protections.
That’s right: even though she lived overseas, she was granted rights under Australian employment law.
What This Means for Australian Businesses Hiring Overseas VAs
This case sets a legal precedent that could have serious consequences for Australian businesses using overseas contractors. If you're hiring offshore workers and treating them like employees - with fixed hours, clear duties, and direct oversight, you could be in breach of local employment laws.
Key risks include:
Breaching the Fair Work Act
Being liable for minimum wage, leave entitlements, and superannuation
Facing claims of unfair dismissal or employee misclassification
Potential legal action or backpay obligations
The Legal Grey Area Isn’t So Grey Anymore
For years, Australian businesses have relied on offshore contractors to save money, often under the assumption that they’re not bound by local employment regulations.
But the Joanna Pascua case proves that if the work arrangement looks like employment, the law may treat it as such, regardless of the contractor’s location.
Experts warn this ruling could pave the way for class actions and massive compliance costs for businesses trying to sidestep local regulations.
Beyond Legalities - The Ethics of Offshore Outsourcing
While cost savings are attractive, it’s important to consider the ethics of your business model.
Offshore workers deserve fair treatment, transparent expectations, and working conditions that respect their time and contributions - just like your onshore staff.
Unethical outsourcing not only risks legal consequences, it can also harm your brand reputation and team culture.
The Smarter Alternative: Hire a Local Australian Virtual Assistant
If you want reliable admin support without the legal minefield, the answer is simple: hire local.
By working with an Australian-based virtual assistant like Remote Brilliance Admin, you gain:
A support partner who understands local business culture and compliance
Reduced risk of breaching workplace laws
Real-time communication with no timezone headaches
A trusted, professional extension of your team
The Bottom Line? Stay Compliant. Hire Local. Grow Smarter.
Offshore outsourcing might save you dollars upfront, but it could cost your business in the long run. Don’t risk fines, backpay, or reputational damage.
At Remote Brilliance Admin, we provide flexible, onshore virtual assistant services that keep your business running smoothly - and legally. Because smart business owners know: local is brilliant.
Need a Virtual Assistant in Australia? Let’s Chat.
Whether you need help with inbox management, document creation, CRM updates or general admin, Remote Brilliance Admin is ready to support your business - the ethical, compliant, and brilliant way.
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