Employer applications for DAMA in the Great South Coast can be received at anytime
A Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) is an agreement between the Australian Government and a designated region, designed to help local businesses address specific labour shortages.
The Great South Coast (GSC) DAMA enables employers in the region to sponsor skilled and semi-skilled overseas workers for positions they are unable to fill with the local workforce.
This website provides guidance to employers seeking endorsement to sponsor overseas workers under the DAMA program.
From 1 July 2026, nomination fees will increase as follows:
- Businesses with an annual turnover of less than $10 million: $850 (ex GST) per worker nominated
- Businesses with an annual turnover of more than $10 million: $1000 (ex GST) per worker nominated
Applications lodged before 1 July will be subject to the current fees.
Important Update – Industry Labour Agreements (ILAs)
From 26 March 2026, where a requested occupation is available under an existing Industry Labour Agreement (ILA), the occupation can only be endorsed under DAMA if the overseas worker will be employed in an industry that is different from the industry covered by the relevant ILA.
Employers operating within an industry covered by an existing ILA must utilise the relevant ILA for those occupations.