For years, businesses have enjoyed the bottom-line benefits of cheap offshore freelancers — but a game-changing Fair Work Commission ruling just flipped the script.
In this episode, I break down what really happened when an offshore Filipino freelancer was deemed entitled to workplace protections from an Australian business they were contracted to — and why it could spell the end of dodgy “$5 an hour VA” deals.
We talk:
👉 The difference between contractors and employees
👉 The legal risks you might not know you’re taking
👉 Why the price gap between offshore and onshore is closing fast
👉 And why now, more than ever, Australian VAs are the smart, compliant choice for growing businesses
💬 “Cheap doesn’t always mean cost-effective. In fact, it might be the most expensive mistake you make.”
If you're outsourcing work, thinking about hiring a VA, or just want to stay on the right side of workplace law — this episode is a must-listen.
🎧 Press play and future-proof your business!
Theme music: 'The Typewriter' by Leroy Anderson. Used with express permission.
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Resources & References:
(all links correct at time of publishing)
ABC News: This Filipino woman struck a blow against Australian businesses 'exploiting' offshore workers
eSOs Blog: Employee or VA
eSOS Blog: Benefits of VAs
VA Institute: Offshore is Over
(Other relevant episodes included below)