When it comes to supporting Australian products and services, Australians should be keeping their dollar here as much as they can. Not only will your dollar be contributing positively to the Australian economy you will find there are a huge range of benefits from working with a fellow Aussie.

Firstly, You'll share the same time zone as your Australian VA (or a similar one depending on states). This could be viewed as a negative too however as you develop a working relationship with your Virtual Assistant you will be able to determine how they work and when they work so that you can both be clear on work times and boundaries.

Most VA's in Australia will have a strong educational background behind them and a good Australian workplace history.

Australian Virtual Assistants will most likely have top English skills - both verbal and written. This will be key when you are discussing the next work task, having update meetings and general liaising.

Cost can be a big factor for most small businesses when they are looking for a VA so make sure you do your research and find a VA that won't charge through the roof - discuss the way they price and ask for further explanation on how their packages work (if they offer these).

If a huge factor for you is cost then sure go ahead and order a VA from overseas but buyer beware. Here are our top 3 tips when sourcing an overseas VA:

1. Do your research on the person and company that you are thinking of hiring from

2. Make sure you hire a worker with strong communication skills - either verbal or written

3. Read the contract and seek advice before you commit to anything - make sure you have a contract!

All in all we are totally for keeping our dollar in Australia as much as possible! Choose wisely!