Cost guide
Reception service costs for Australian small business
The right reception option depends on call volume, complexity, budget, and how quickly missed-call details need to reach the owner.
OptionTypical fitCost profile
AI receptionistMissed and after-hours call capture, caller details, basic booking or SMS summaries.Commonly around $99-$600/month depending on setup, integrations, and call volume.
Virtual receptionistHuman answering, message-taking, transfers, and broader front-desk handling.Often usage-based. Entry plans may start low, but practical small-business plans commonly sit around $185/month and rise with call volume.
In-house adminHigh-touch control and repeat internal workflows.Usually $55,000-$85,000+ per year once wages, super, leave, training, and overheads are included.
For many small businesses, the first decision is not “which is perfect?” It is “how do I stop losing calls without hiring admin too early?” A simple AI receptionist can be the lowest-friction first step when the main problem is missed calls, after-hours enquiries, and slow follow-up.
Deskie Tassie Deal - Limited Time Offer
Deskie is currently notable because its $149 Core plan is discounted to only $99 for Tasmanian businesses. There is no setup fee, no lock-in contracts, and it includes 60 answered calls/month.