Understanding the DAMA Program: A Pathway for Skilled Workers in Regional Australia

Work in regional Australia

Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMA) are labour agreements between the Australian Government and specific regional, state or territory authorities. These agreements are designed to address local labour market shortages by allowing employers in designated regions to sponsor skilled and semi-skilled overseas workers for positions they cannot fill locally.

DAMA offers a flexible and accessible visa pathway for employers in regional Australia, as well as skilled migrants seeking to live and work outside the major cities.

What is a DAMA?

A DAMA is a formal agreement tailored to the needs of a particular region in Australia that is experiencing genuine skill shortages. It allows local businesses in the designated area to sponsor overseas workers through the Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482), the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 494), and in some cases, the Employer Nomination Scheme visa (subclass 186).

Each DAMA has its own list of approved occupations and conditions, which may include:

• Lower English language requirements

• Lower salary thresholds

• Access to occupations not normally available under standard visa programs

• Pathways to permanent residency.

Who Can Use a DAMA?

To access a DAMA, an employer must be operating within the boundaries of the designated area and demonstrate a genuine need to fill positions with overseas workers. DAMAs are not open to individual migrants unless they have a sponsoring employer.

DAMA Regions in Australia

As of 2025, several regions across Australia have active DAMAs, including:

• Northern Territory DAMA

• South Australian Regional DAMA

• Orana DAMA (NSW)

• Far North Queensland DAMA

• Goulburn Valley DAMA (VIC)

• South West WA DAMA

• Pilbara DAMA (WA)

Each agreement outlines specific occupations and concessions relevant to that region.

Key Benefits of DAMA for Employers

• Access to a broader range of occupations, including semi-skilled roles not available under standard skilled visa programs.

• Streamlined labour agreement process through the regional authority.

• Ability to sponsor overseas workers where local recruitment efforts have been unsuccessful.

• Possible concessions on skill level, English proficiency, and salary.

Key Benefits of DAMA for Migrants

• Opportunity to work in regional areas with high demand for your occupation.

• More inclusive criteria, including lower English and salary thresholds.

• Potential pathways to permanent residency depending on the DAMA terms.

How to Apply Under a DAMA

1. Employer endorsement: The employer must first apply for endorsement from the Designated Area Representative (DAR).

2. Labour Agreement application: Once endorsed, the employer applies for a labour agreement with the Department of Home Affairs.

3. Visa nomination and application: After the agreement is approved, the employer can nominate a worker, who then applies for the relevant visa.

   
   

Is DAMA Right for You?

Whether you’re an employer struggling to find workers in a regional area, or a skilled worker looking to live and work in Australia, DAMA may be a viable option. However, the application process can be complex, and each DAMA has its own unique criteria.

At Fineberg Migration Services, we can assist employers with the labour agreement process and help overseas workers understand their options under DAMA agreements. We can guide you through the regional endorsement process, visa application, and potential permanent residency pathways.

Need Help With a DAMA Application?

Contact us today to discuss whether a DAMA is the right pathway for your business or migration goals. Our team is experienced in regional migration programs and can help you navigate the process with confidence.