Big changes are coming to job postings in Ontario, and whether you’re an employer or a job seeker, it’s something you’ll want to know about.
The Ontario government has enacted new amendments to the Employment Standards Act (ESA), a significant move towards promoting workplace equity and transparency.
These amendments will take effect on January 1, 2026. They were introduced through the Working for Workers Four Act, 2024 (Bill 149), and the Working for Workers Five Act (Bill 190).
The changes aim to provide job seekers with clearer insights into employment opportunities and ensure fair hiring practices across the province.
This will be a welcome change for newcomers familiar with the dreaded “Canadian Experience” requirement.
Key Provisions of the New Job Postings Legislation
Effective January 1, 2026, employers in Ontario with 25 or more employees will be required to adhere to the following mandates for publicly advertised job postings:-
1. Salary Disclosure in Job Postings
Have you ever experienced the agony of tailoring your CV and cover letter for hours only to receive a call offering a stupid salary that does not match your skills in any way?
Well, all that is going to end in 2026!
Job postings must include the expected compensation or a salary range, provided the top end does not exceed $200,000 annually. The disclosed range must not exceed $50,000.
2. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Usage Disclosure
Employers must clearly state whether AI technology is utilized at any stage of the hiring process, including screening, evaluation, or selection of applicants.
3. Vacancy Status of Job Postings
Job postings must indicate whether the position is for an existing vacancy or a newly created role.
4. Prohibition on Canadian Experience Requirements
Employers are prohibited from including requirements related to Canadian work experience in job postings, ensuring applicants from diverse backgrounds are not unfairly excluded.
5. Candidate Notification
Employers must inform interviewees of the hiring decision within 45 days of the interview (or final interview if there is more than one) for publicly advertised job postings.
What Does This Mean for Employers?
These changes necessitate a thorough review and an overhaul of existing hiring practices. Employers should:-
- Maintain a transparent and honest approach to how your company handles pay, ensuring it aligns with your values and remains competitive in the market.
- Set up solid job frameworks to keep things consistent and fair when evaluating roles and making pay decisions.
- Put simple, easy-to-follow guidelines in place for how pay is managed, so it’s fair across the board.
- Take the time to review your pay structure for any red flags or gaps between roles or demographics, and fix what’s not working.
- Ensure your managers feel confident discussing pay by providing them with the right tools and training. That way, you build more trust and openness across the team.
What Does This Mean for Job Seekers?
- Clear insights into compensation expectations and hiring practices.
- Eliminating biases related to Canadian work experience and increasing awareness of AI involvement in recruitment.
- Assurance of feedback within a specified timeframe post-interview, aiding in informed career decisions.
As Ontario moves toward a more transparent and inclusive job market, these new rules mark a big step forward for employers and job seekers.
And for newcomers starting fresh in Ontario, this change brings a much-needed sense of fairness and clarity to the job search.
No longer having to guess at salaries or worry about being overlooked due to a lack of “Canadian experience” means newcomers can apply with more confidence and transparency.
These new job posting rules level the playing field and help ensure that everyone, regardless of where they’re from, gets a fair shot at building a successful career in Canada.
Understanding these changes will help you stay informed, prepared, and ahead of the curve.
With salary ranges, AI disclosures, and fairer hiring practices becoming the new norm, job postings in Ontario are about to get a lot more honest and that’s good news for everyone!
What to Do if An Employer is Not Complying?
If you believe an employer in Ontario is not complying with the new job posting requirements, you can file a complaint with the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development.
The Ministry’s guide HERE provides more detailed information on filing a complaint and understanding your rights.
So, what do you think of these upcoming amendments? Share in the comments.
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Abi loves traveling, reading, and writing. She is a big believer in following your dreams and has been marching to the beat of her unconventional drums for a long time. She funds her adventures by making smart financial decisions and investing wisely. Her top personal finance tools include trading with Questrade, investing change on MOKA, and no-fee banking with Tangerine and Neo Financial. Learn more about Abi HERE.
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