New DAMA to Invite 1,500 Overseas Workers Annually to Australia's Northern Territory

The Northern Territory has secured a significant boost to its workforce with the implementation of a new Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA), set to commence on March 19, 2025. This landmark agreement, the third of its kind for the territory, will run until June 30, 2030, and allows employers to access an additional 1,500 overseas workers annually to address critical labour shortages.

Understanding the DAMA Framework

The DAMA, a formal arrangement between the Commonwealth of Australia and the designated area representative, in this case, the Northern Territory government, aims to provide tailored solutions to regional workforce challenges. By offering flexibility beyond standard skilled visa programs, the DAMA allows for variations to occupation and skills lists, as well as potential concessions to visa requirements, catering to the unique needs of the territory.

Addressing Critical Labour Shortages

This new agreement arrives at a crucial time for the Northern Territory, which has been grappling with persistent workforce shortages across various sectors. The 1,500 annual worker allocation will provide a vital lifeline to businesses struggling to fill essential roles.

"This DAMA is a testament to the ongoing collaboration between the Northern Territory government and the Commonwealth to address our unique labour market needs," stated a spokesperson from the Northern Territory government. "It will enable us to attract skilled workers in critical occupations, supporting our economic growth and development."

Prioritizing Local Recruitment and Setting Ceilings

The DAMA operates under stringent guidelines to ensure it complements, rather than replaces, efforts to recruit Australian workers. Before employers can access overseas workers through the DAMA, they must demonstrate genuine attempts to hire locally. Furthermore, the agreement includes annual ceilings on the number of overseas workers employed, ensuring a balanced approach to workforce development.

Supporting Migrant Worker Integration

A key aspect of the DAMA is the emphasis on providing comprehensive support to migrant workers. This includes access to local services and resources, facilitating their integration into the community.

Employer Sponsorship and Visa Program Integration

It is crucial to note that individuals cannot directly apply for a DAMA visa. Instead, they must be sponsored by an employer operating within the designated region and for an occupation specified in the head agreement. Individual DAMA labour agreements, typically valid for five years, are established between the Australian Government and endorsed employers. These agreements leverage existing visa programs, including:

• Subclass 482 Skills in Demand (SID)
• subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) and
• subclass 186 Employer Nominated Scheme (ENS) visas

This ensures a streamlined process for both employers and overseas workers.

Approval Criteria and Regional Needs

The approval of a DAMA is contingent on demonstrating the unique circumstances and labour market needs of the geographical region. Factors considered include the necessity to address critical skill shortages, the commitment to local recruitment efforts, and the availability of support for migrant workers.

Australia's Northern Territory Opens Doors for Skilled Workers

The DAMA agreement is projected to generate substantial positive impacts across key sectors, including hospitality, agriculture, construction, and healthcare. For skilled workers, this means a chance to fill critical vacancies and contribute to the economic dynamism of the Northern Territory, while building a new life in Australia. The government emphasizes a mutually beneficial relationship, ensuring that the DAMA not only meets the territory’s labour needs but also provides valuable opportunities for overseas professionals. 

To know more and apply for relevant visa in Australia in 2025, you may get in touch with us our trusted and registered Australia migration expert at Toll-Free No. 78-18-000-777 or you can drop us an e-mail at info@visasavenue.com.

- Rajneesh Kumar