How to Access Skilled Workers Through a DAMA Agreement

DAMA Visa Employer Sponsorship – Secure Skilled Workers in Regional Areas

The DAMA Visa Employer Sponsorship allows businesses in designated regional areas to sponsor skilled overseas workers under special agreements. This Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) offers flexibility in skill levels, age limits, and English proficiency. As a result, it provides a practical solution for employers facing labor shortages in specific regions.

What is a DAMA?

A DAMA is a formal agreement between the Australian Government and a regional authority. It allows businesses in that region to sponsor skilled and semi-skilled overseas workers for positions they are unable to fill with local workers. DAMAs are tailored to the specific economic and labor market needs of each region.

Key Benefits of a DAMA for Employers

Access to a Wider Range of Occupations:

• DAMAs often include occupations that are not on the standard skilled visa lists.

Concessions: They can provide concessions to standard visa requirements, such as lower English language scores, reduced work experience requirements, and slightly higher age limits.

Pathway to Permanent Residency: Most DAMAs include a pathway for sponsored workers to apply for permanent residency, which helps with long-term retention.

The DAMA Application Process for Employers

Check for a DAMA in Your Region:

1. First, confirm if your business is located in one of Australia’s designated DAMA regions. A list can be found on the Department of Home Affairs website.

Endorsement by the Regional Body: You must apply to the Designated Area Representative (DAR) for endorsement. You’ll need to demonstrate that you’ve tried to hire Australian workers first (Labour Market Testing).

Apply for a Labour Agreement with the Government: Once endorsed, you can apply for a labour agreement with the Department of Home Affairs.

Nominate Skilled Workers: After the labour agreement is in place, you can nominate overseas workers for the specific occupations and concessions agreed upon in the DAMA.

Worker Visa Application: The nominated worker then applies for their visa (usually a Subclass 482 or 494 visa) under the DAMA stream.

How We Can Help

The DAMA process can be complex. At Simon Mander Consulting P/L, we offer expert guidance to help your business navigate every step, from securing endorsement to lodging successful nominations.

Eligibility Assessment:

• We assess your business’s eligibility for the DAMA program in your region.

Endorsement and Labour Agreement Support: We assist with preparing and lodging your applications to the DAR and the Department of Home Affairs.

Nomination and Visa Application Management: We manage the entire process for your nominated workers, ensuring all requirements are met for a smooth and successful outcome.

Ready to address your skill shortages through a DAMA? Contact us today to start your journey.