Legalities for posting a job – tips

Lyn Carman • November 28, 2023
  • Fair Work Act: This is the primary legislation governing employment in Australia. It sets out minimum employment conditions, such as minimum wages, working hours, and leave entitlements. Ensure your job posting complies with these standards.
  • Anti-Discrimination Laws: Australia has strict anti-discrimination laws. You cannot discriminate against applicants based on age, gender, race, or other protected characteristics. Your job ad must avoid any discriminatory language.
  • Minimum Employment Age: Check the minimum age for employment in your state or territory. It’s typically 14 or 15 years old for part-time work.
  • Employment Contracts: Be clear in your job posting about the type of employment (full-time, part-time, casual), the duration of the contract, and any probationary periods.
  • National Employment Standards (NES): These are minimum employment conditions that apply to all employees in Australia. They cover things like annual leave, personal leave, and redundancy pay.
  • Visa Requirements: If you’re hiring non-citizens, be aware of visa requirements. Some visas may restrict the type of work an individual can do.
  • Superannuation: As an employer, you’re generally required to contribute to your employees’ superannuation funds. Make sure to mention this in your job ad.
  • Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S): Your workplace must meet safety standards. Mention any specific safety requirements in your job posting, especially if it’s a physically demanding job.
  • Minimum Wage: Ensure that the salary or wage offered in your job ad meets the minimum wage set by the Fair Work Commission.
  • Privacy: When collecting personal information from applicants, ensure you comply with privacy laws. Only collect what’s necessary for the recruitment process and handle it securely.
  • Work Eligibility: Before hiring, verify that applicants have the legal right to work in Australia. You may need to sight and retain copies of their documents.
  • Awards and Agreements: Some industries have specific awards or enterprise agreements that set out pay rates and conditions. Check if
  •  your job falls under one of these agreements.


Remember to use clear and non-discriminatory language in your job posting. It’s also a good practice to consult with legal professionals or HR experts to ensure full compliance with Australian employment laws.

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