Tougher on foreign hires

EMPLOYERS will have to advertise jobs locally for at least four weeks before they can apply to hire an overseas worker.

Labour market testing rules have been added to legislation that mean employers can’t hire foreigners for jobs without first ensuring there’s no Australian to fill the job.

Citizenship Minister Alan Tudge said the Government yesterday accepted amendments from the Senate to legislate the change. The new rules require a business to advertise the position locally for at least four weeks and that the position be advertised at least four months before a temporary skills shortage visa is requested.