The Federal Opposition insists it does not want the China-Australia free trade agreement (FTA) renegotiated as it pushes for stronger protections for workers.
Federal Labor has refused to guarantee support for the FTA, with the Opposition and unions saying Chinese people could be given work in Australia ahead of local workers.
Labor leader Bill Shorten said the Government should use the deal's enabling legislation to safeguard local employment.
"[The deal] can't be at the expense of Australian jobs, which is why it's important Labor works to ensure safeguards — like labour market testing and workplace skills and safety standards — are maintained," Mr Shorten said in a statement.
"The Abbott Government doesn't need to change the FTA to make this happen — as it knows full well, Parliament doesn't vote on the FTA."
Shadow treasurer Chris Bowen added: "We've made very clear that our concerns don't need the Government to go back to Beijing to renegotiate the deal."
The Opposition has not said what amendments it would like to see.
Many state and territory ALP leaders support the deal, including Victorian and South Australian premiers Daniel Andrews and Jay Weatherill.
Legislation is set to come before Parliament later this year.