What is a Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA)?
Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMA) are formal agreements between the Australian Government and specific regions or territories experiencing unique labor shortages. DAMAs are designed to attract skilled and semi-skilled overseas workers to fill roles that cannot be met by the local workforce, particularly in regional or remote areas.
Overview:
DAMA provides access to a broader range of occupations and may include concessions to standard visa requirements, such as:
- Lower English language proficiency.
- Reduced salary thresholds.
- Expanded occupation lists not covered under standard skilled migration programs.
These agreements are tailored to meet the specific workforce needs of the designated region while providing pathways to employment for foreign workers.
Eligibility Requirements for Workers:
- Job Offer: The applicant must have a valid job offer from an approved employer in a designated area under a DAMA agreement.
- Occupation: The role must be listed under the relevant DAMA occupation list for that region.
- Skills and Experience: Applicants must demonstrate the qualifications, skills, and experience required for the nominated role.
- English Language: English language requirements may vary under DAMA concessions but must meet the specified level.
- Health and Character: Applicants must satisfy health and character requirements through medical checks and police clearances.
How It Works:
- Employer Sponsorship: The employer applies for endorsement to sponsor workers under the DAMA agreement in their region.
- Labor Agreement Approval: Once the employer’s application is approved, they can nominate eligible workers for specific roles.
- Visa Application: The nominated worker applies for the relevant visa (typically a Temporary Skill Shortage (Subclass 482) Visa) under the terms of the DAMA.
Key Benefits:
- Occupation Flexibility: DAMA includes occupations not available under other visa programs, catering to region-specific needs.
- Pathway to Residency: Some DAMAs provide a pathway to permanent residency after meeting specific conditions.
- Concessions: Workers may benefit from relaxed requirements for English proficiency, salary thresholds, or skills assessments.
DAMA offers an excellent opportunity for overseas workers to secure employment in regional Australia while addressing critical skill shortages in remote and rural communities. It is a tailored solution for workers and employers alike, fostering economic growth and sustainability in designated regions.