A new state-wide Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) for Western Australia came into effect on 1st July 2024.

The WA DAMA, combined with WA’s existing State Nominated Migration Program, will enable up to 10,000 overseas workers to settle in WA annually and help address critical workforce shortages in the state.

WA Employers will continue to be able to access the occupations and concessions of DAMAs that are in operation for relevant regions of WA. Additionally, employers will now be able to access a broader list of occupations and concessions under the new WA DAMA.

A Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) is a formal agreement between the Australian Government and a regional state or territory authority. DAMA permits employers in designated areas to sponsor skilled and semi-skilled overseas workers for positions they are unable to fill with local workers. It is custom-made to address current and growing labour market shortages and local terms and conditions of employment.