What are Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMAs)?

Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMAs) are formal labour agreements between the Australian Government and regional, state, or territory authorities that allow employers in designated areas to sponsor skilled migrant workers for employer-sponsored work visas. 

Operating within a labour agreement framework, DAMAs provide employers greater flexibility than standard visa programs by offering a greater range of occupations, concessions to usual visa eligibility criteria, such as reduced English language requirements, lower salary thresholds, and relaxed age limits. 

These concessions are tailored to address specific regional labour market challenges and skill shortages. 

Once a DAMA head agreement is established, businesses in the region may seek individual DAMA labour agreements under the head agreement terms and available concessions. DAMAs play an important role in supporting regional economies and communities by filling critical skill gaps and offering pathways to permanent residency for skilled migrants.

There are currently 13 DAMAs across Australia, each managed by its own Designated Area Representative (DAR). Explore the eligibility criteria for each agreement below by looking at on the DAR website to see which concessions and benefits may apply to your business.

If your business operates in a DAMA region, contact one of our Registered Migration Agents today. We’ll help you explore the best options to overcome skills shortages and strengthen your workforce.

Book a consultation to speak to one of experienced Registered Migration Agents today.

Disclaimer: The information provided herein is of a general nature only and does not constitute immigration advice. For more detailed and case-specific information or advice, please get in touch with SCA Connect.