Designated Area Migration Agreement South Australia: What You Need to Know

The Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) is a scheme in Australia that allows employers in designated areas to sponsor skilled workers from overseas for jobs that cannot be filled by local Australian workers. The DAMA program is intended to help fill skill gaps in the Australian labor market and promote economic growth in regional areas. In this article, we will discuss the DAMA South Australia program and its benefits for both employers and skilled workers.

What is the DAMA South Australia program?

The DAMA South Australia program is a migration agreement between the Australian government and the South Australian government. The program is designed to address skill shortages that are not covered by other visa programs, such as the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) or Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS). The program applies to specific regions of South Australia, including the Adelaide Hills, Clare Valley, Eyre Peninsula and Kangaroo Island.

Under the program, eligible employers in South Australia can sponsor skilled workers to fill positions that cannot be filled by local Australian workers. The DAMA program allows businesses to access a wider range of skilled workers, not just those who are on the SOL. Skilled workers who are sponsored by DAMA employers are eligible for a Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa, which is valid for up to four years.

What are the benefits of the DAMA South Australia program for employers?

The DAMA program provides a range of benefits for employers in South Australia. Firstly, it allows employers to recruit skilled workers for positions that are not covered by other visa programs. This can help to address critical skill shortages and enable businesses to grow and expand in regional areas.

Secondly, the DAMA program offers employers a streamlined visa application process. Employers who are approved for the program can nominate skilled workers for a TSS visa, which is processed more quickly than other types of visa applications. This can save time and resources for employers, who can get skilled workers on board more quickly and efficiently.

Finally, the DAMA program allows employers to retain skilled workers for longer periods of time. The TSS visa is valid for up to four years, which provides businesses with greater certainty and stability in their workforce planning.

What are the benefits of the DAMA South Australia program for skilled workers?

The DAMA program also offers a range of benefits for skilled workers who are sponsored by eligible employers in South Australia. Firstly, the program provides an opportunity for skilled workers to live and work in Australia, which can be a valuable career and personal experience.

Secondly, the DAMA program provides greater flexibility for skilled workers who are not on the SOL. This can enable them to apply for jobs that are not available to them under other visa programs, and gain valuable work experience in their field.

Finally, the TSS visa provided under the DAMA program is valid for up to four years, which provides skilled workers with greater security and stability in their employment and residency arrangements.

In summary, the DAMA South Australia program provides a range of benefits for both employers and skilled workers. It enables businesses to access a wider pool of skilled workers, address critical skill shortages, and streamline the visa application process. Skilled workers, in turn, can benefit from opportunities to live and work in Australia, gain valuable work experience, and enjoy greater stability in their employment and residency arrangements. For more information on the DAMA South Australia program, visit the South Australia government website.