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Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMAs)
Unlock Skilled Talent in Regional Australia
If your business is facing skills shortages in a regional area, a Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) could be the solution. DAMAs are special agreements between the Australian Government and regional bodies that allow employers to sponsor overseas workers with greater flexibility than standard visa pathways.
At Australian Migration Lawyers, we guide regional businesses through the DAMA process, providing support to help applications proceed as smoothly as possible.
Winner of most trusted Australian Migration Law Firm 2023-2025
Ranked 1st for migration law in 2023, 2024 & 2025
Ranked in the top migration lawyers 2023, 2024 & 2025
Ranked the best migration law firm 2024 & 2025
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The Australian Migration Lawyers difference
Fixed price
There are no hidden costs for our services. Our fees are clearly set out in a fee agreement.
Deal direct with a lawyer
From the first same-day response to the granting of your visa, you’ll have direct access to a lawyer.
Clear communication
Our experienced lawyers will give you regular updates and clear explanations of visa pathways.
Satisfaction guarantee
We offer a client satisfaction guarantee in relation to our visa application services.
Installments available
3 - 6 months installment options available on some visa types.
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What is a DAMA?
A DAMA provides access to:
- Additional occupations not available on standard skilled occupation lists.
- Concessions to visa requirements, including skills, English proficiency, salary, and work experience.
- Simplified pathways for regional employers to secure much-needed workers.
Employers under a DAMA can sponsor workers for Skills in Demand visa (subclass 482), Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (subclass 494), and Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visas.
What are the Current DAMA Regions?
There are currently 13 DAMAs in place across Australia, including the following.
- Northern Territory
- Far North Queensland
- The states of Western Australia, South Australia, and the Northern Territory
- Adelaide City, East Kimberley, Goulburn Valley (VIC), Great South Coast, Orana (Central Western NSW), Pilbara, South West, The Goldfields, Townsville (QLD)
- Goulburn Valley, VIC
- Central Western NSW (Orana)
Each DAMA is tailored to the specific needs of its region, meaning eligibility, occupations, and concessions vary.
What are the Current DAMA Regions?
There are currently 13 DAMAs in place across Australia, including the following.
- Northern Territory
- Far North Queensland
- The states of Western Australia, South Australia, and the Northern Territory
- Adelaide City, East Kimberley, Goulburn Valley (VIC), Great South Coast, Orana (Central Western NSW), Pilbara, South West, The Goldfields, Townsville (QLD)
- Goulburn Valley, VIC
- Central Western NSW (Orana)
Each DAMA is tailored to the specific needs of its region, meaning eligibility, occupations, and concessions vary.
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How the DAMA Process Works: Step-by-Step Guide
You must first obtain endorsement from the local Designated Area Representative (DAR), such as a state, territory, regional authority, or the chamber of commerce or council.
Submit a detailed application to the Department of Home Affairs showing genuine labour shortages and business viability.
Once the DAMA agreement is in place, nominate overseas workers through the 482, 494, or 186 visa programs.
Throughout the process, businesses must provide strong evidence of their operations, recruitment efforts, and commitment to training Australians.
Why Choose Australian Migration Lawyers?
- Extensive experience in assisting regional employers across multiple DAMAs.
- Complete support from endorsement to final visa approval
- Practical advice tailored to your business needs and DAMA requirements.
- Our qualified migration professionals help ensure compliance with legislative and policy requirements.
Start Your DAMA Journey Today
With experienced guidance, regional businesses can access skilled overseas workers through DAMAs. Contact Australian Migration Lawyers to learn how we can assist you through the process.
Visa application process
Applying for a visa to Australia can be complex. With help from an Australian Migration Lawyer, we can untangle this complexity, and help you apply for the right visa.
1. Consultation and engagement
Organise a consultation time to speak with one of our lawyers. You can meet with us in person, via Zoom or telephone. Following this, we will send you paperwork that confirms our engagement to represent you.
2. Preparation and support
We will prepare written submissions in support of your visa application. This will be based on your individual circumstances, and supported by evidence where appropriate.
3. Submission and communication
We submit your application to the relevant body (Department of Home Affairs, courts or tribunal). We will continue to update you concerning the status of your application.
4. Representation and success
We will keep you informed about your application, and notify you of the outcome. If you receive an unfavourable outcome and we can reapply, we will!
Meet your Australian Migration Lawyer
We’re a diverse team of professionals with decades of combined experience. We care about your situation and will make sure you always get the support and advice you need.
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Locations
We offer professional migration advice and support, no matter where you are based. Those located in Australia have the choice of meeting with us at one of our offices or online, and for those offshore, we are available to you online.
Melbourne
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Sydney
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Perth
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Brisbane
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Adelaide
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Canberra
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Darwin
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Hobart
Learn moreFrequently asked questions
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About the content author
Perry Q Wood is Immediate Past President of the Australian Institute of Administrative Law and one of Australia’s leading administrative, immigration and human rights lawyers.
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