Imposing a foreign domestic helpers levy will generate an annual income of about $1.1 billion, Secretary for Economic Development & Labour Stephen Ip said.

Speaking in the Legislative Council today, Mr Ip noted that the Education & Manpower Bureau will review how to make best use of the levy to support and enhance local worker's training.

The Government plans to impose a $400-a-month levy on employers of foreign domestic helpers beginning October 1.

According to Mr Ip, the Immigration Department will need 27 additional civil service posts - including Immigration Officer, Immigration Assistant and Clerical grades - to handle the levy's collection.