Understanding Labour Market Testing for Subclass 482 Visas

Labour Market Testing (LMT) is a critical requirement of employer-sponsored subclass 482 nomination applications that promotes the employment of Australian citizens and permanent residents as a priority over offshore talent.

LMT ensures that local Australian job seekers are given an opportunity to apply for vacant positions before employers seek talent overseas, maintaining a balanced job market and addressing unemployment and underemployment issues.

LMT Requirements

For employers to sponsor an individual for a subclass 482 visa, they must demonstrate that they have tested the local Australian labour market and have been unable to identify and attract a suitable Australian permanent resident or citizen candidate. This also applies to nomination transfer applications where the candidate has an existing 482 visa.

For LMT evidence to meet the requirements for a subclass 482 nomination, the following is required:

1. Timeframe: Employers must advertise the vacant position for a minimum of 28 consecutive days within the 4 months immediately prior to lodgement of the 482 nomination, or after any redundancies in the occupation.

2. Where to advertise: advertisements must be published on a prominent national recruitment website, in national print media or on national radio. Examples of acceptable recruitment websites are Workforce Australia, Jora, Indeed, SEEK and LinkedIn Recruitment.

3. You need at least two advertisements

4. The advertisements can be paid or unpaid

5. The advertisements may have been undertaken by a third party, provided the third party was commissioned or authorised by the sponsor to advertise the position

6. Evidence: Employers must provide copies of the advertisements including a number of essential details to ensure compliance, evidence of start and end dates of advertising, and the number of applications received.

There are limited circumstances in which LMT may not be required and the Department will refuse a nomination where the correct details are not provided in the LMT advertisements.

To review your visa options and understand your eligibility, book a consultation with one of our experienced Registered Migration Agents today.

Disclaimer: The information provided herein is of a general nature only and does not constitute immigration advice. For more detailed and case-specific information or advice, please get in touch with SCA Connect.