Designated Area Migration
Agreements (DAMA) – Australia
Free Online Assessment
Helping Skilled Workers and Employers Connect Across Regional Australia
The Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) is a formal arrangement between the Australian Government and regional, state, or territory authorities. It allows employers in designated regions to sponsor skilled and semi-skilled overseas workers for positions they are unable to fill locally.
Unlike standard visa programs, DAMA offers more flexibility with age limits, English requirements, and occupation lists. It is designed to address labour shortages in specific areas and support regional economic development.
What is a DAMA?
A DAMA is a five-year agreement that provides access to a broader range of occupations and pathways to permanent residency. These agreements are region-specific and are negotiated based on the local labour market conditions.
Employers in approved DAMA regions must apply for endorsement from the relevant Designated Area Representative (DAR) before lodging a labour agreement request with the Department of Home Affairs.
DAMA is not a visa itself. Instead, it is a framework that enables businesses to sponsor workers through the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (subclass 482), Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) visa (subclass 186), or Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 494).
Why DAMA?
Australia’s regional areas often face workforce shortages in specific industries like aged care, hospitality, agriculture, construction, and manufacturing. DAMA agreements aim to fill these gaps by providing access to a broader range of skilled occupations and streamlined visa processes.
Key Features of DAMA
- Region-Specific: DAMAs only apply to specific regions in Australia.
- Labour Agreement Stream: Operates under the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Subclass 482 and the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) Subclass 494 visa streams.
- Concessions Available: These may include age, English language, and salary level concessions.
- Permanent Residency Pathway: Some DAMA occupations offer a pathway to the Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme visa.
Current DAMA Regions in Australia
There are currently 13 DAMAs operating across various states and territories. Each region has its own list of eligible occupations and criteria:
Western Australia
- East Kimberley DAMA
- Pilbara DAMA
- South West DAMA
- The Goldfields DAMA
- WA DAMA – Department of Training and Workforce Development
South Australia
- Adelaide City Technology and Innovation Advancement DAMA
- South Australia Regional DAMA
Queensland
- Far North Queensland DAMA
- Townsville DAMA
Victoria
- Goulburn Valley DAMA
- Great South Coast DAMA
New South Wales
- Orana DAMA
Northern Territory
- NT DAMA
Who Can Apply Under DAMA?
For Employers
If your business is located in a designated area and you are unable to find suitable local candidates, you may be eligible to sponsor foreign workers under DAMA. You will need to apply for endorsement from the local Designated Area Representative (DAR).
For Skilled Workers
If you have the qualifications, work experience, and skills for a DAMA-listed occupation, you may be eligible to apply for a visa through an approved employer.
Steps to Apply Under DAMA
- Check Region and Occupation
Ensure your occupation is listed in the relevant region’s DAMA occupation list. - DAR Endorsement
The employer must obtain endorsement from the Designated Area Representative. - Labour Agreement Request
The employer submits a request to the Department of Home Affairs for a labour agreement. - Visa Application
Once the agreement is in place, the employee can lodge a visa application.
DAMA Occupation Lists
Each DAMA region maintains its own occupation list based on local workforce needs. Occupations may include hospitality, agriculture, health care, construction, aged care, and more.
These lists are regularly updated. For up-to-date information, check the official pages of each DAMA region.
DAMA Visa Process Overview
- Employer Endorsement: Employers must first apply for endorsement from their local DAR.
- Labour Agreement Application: Once endorsed, the employer applies to the Department of Home Affairs for a labour agreement.
- Nomination & Visa Application: The employer nominates the worker, and the worker applies for the relevant visa.
- PR Pathway: Eligible applicants may apply for permanent residency after meeting specified conditions.
Why Consider the DAMA Pathway?
If you are a skilled worker seeking employment in regional Australia or an employer facing persistent skill shortages, DAMA provides a valuable alternative to traditional skilled visa programs. Its region-specific flexibility helps address gaps in the local workforce while supporting economic growth.
How Visa Empire Can Help
Our team offers end-to-end support for both employers and skilled workers under the DAMA program. Services include:
- Identifying the right DAMA region and occupation
- Preparing DAR endorsement applications
- Guiding through labour agreement requests
- Visa application support
- Relocation guidance (if required)
Contact Us
Whether you’re a regional employer or a skilled worker seeking long-term career opportunities in Australia, our migration experts are here to support you throughout the DAMA process. Get expert help to prepare your documentation, find eligible employers, and boost your chance of success.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA)?
A DAMA is a formal agreement between the Australian Government and regional, state, or territory authorities to help fill labour shortages in specific areas through skilled migration.
How many DAMA regions are there in Australia?
There are currently 13 active DAMA regions across Australia, including locations in Western Australia, South Australia, Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, and the Northern Territory.
Who can apply for a DAMA visa?
Skilled workers with qualifications and experience in occupations listed under a DAMA region may apply. You must also have an employer willing to sponsor you under the agreement.
What visa types are available under DAMA?
Most applicants apply under Subclass 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage) or Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme) through DAMA concessions.
What are the benefits of applying through DAMA?
DAMA offers flexible concessions, including:
- Wider occupation lists
- Lower English language requirements
- Age relaxation
- Pathway to permanent residency
Do I need a skills assessment for DAMA?
Yes, most DAMA visa pathways require a positive skills assessment for the nominated occupation.
How do I find the right DAMA region for my occupation?
Each DAMA region publishes a list of eligible occupations. You can check which region covers your occupation and meets your visa goals.
Can international students apply for DAMA?
Yes, if they have graduated and meet the requirements, including employer sponsorship, they can apply under a relevant DAMA stream.
What is a DAR (Designated Area Representative)?
A DAR is the local authority responsible for managing the DAMA in its region. You must apply to the DAR for endorsement before lodging a visa application.
Is employer sponsorship mandatory under DAMA?
Yes, you must be nominated by an approved employer who is operating within the specific DAMA region.
Can family members be included in a DAMA visa application?
Yes, most DAMA-related visas allow for the inclusion of dependent family members.
How long does the DAMA process take?
The timeline depends on employer nomination, DAR endorsement, and visa processing. On average, it may take 3 to 6 months.
