Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) Employer Workforce Needs Assessment
Key Points
DAMAs provide flexibility for states, territories and/or regions to respond to their specific economic and labour market needs within a formal agreement with the Commonwealth that is authorised by the Minister.
DAMAs are designed to provide solutions to Australian business where there are skills gaps and shortages that cannot be met by the Australian market by allowing 'endorsed' employers to sponsor a broader range of overseas workers than is available under the standard temporary and permanent visa programs.
Roles and Responsibilities
The Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs has the power to enter into a Designated Area Migration Agreement subject to their authorisation and any conditions or parameters to be set.
The Designated Area Representative (DAR) is the co-signatory to the agreement and is responsible for the broad oversight and endorsement of sponsors under this agreement. This includes monitoring and reporting on issues and activity under the DAMA including labour market patterns.
The Department, coordinates the Deed of Agreement process, makes the submission for Ministerial decision on DAMAs, and works with endorsed employers to establish specific labour agreements. Once established the Department processes nomination and visa applications made under the agreements. The Department works with the DAR to monitor progress, issues and effectiveness of the DAMA.
Employers endorsed by the DAR enter into individual labour agreements (under the umbrella of the DAMA) with the Department. Sponsorship obligations including requirements for labour market testing apply.
Employers to provide the following information to the prospective Designated Area Representative (DAR). This information will be used to develop a DAMA submission.