It feels like just yesterday we were talking about the upcoming migration program, and already, the wheels are turning for the 2025-26 State Nomination Migration Program in Western Australia. The Department of Home Affairs has been busy, issuing remaining places for the program in December, and invitation rounds are set to kick off. It’s a clear signal that if you've been eyeing a move to WA, now is the time to pay close attention.
This isn't just about general invitations, though. For businesses looking to bring in skilled workers, especially in specific regional areas, the Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) offers a pathway. It’s a bit more involved, certainly, but it can be a game-changer for filling critical labour shortages. I’ve been looking into how businesses can actually apply under DAMA, and it’s a process that requires careful preparation.
First off, if your business is eligible for a DAMA, you’ll need to prepare your application. This could be for a Designated Area Representative (DAR) endorsement if you’re starting fresh, or a Variation Request if you already have a Labour Agreement in place and need to make changes – perhaps increasing nomination numbers or adding new occupations. It’s worth noting that they can only support one variation per year, and there’s a six-month waiting period after a new agreement is executed before variation requests are accepted. So, planning ahead is absolutely key here.
The application process itself involves a few steps. You’ll apply through the Skilled & Business Migration Portal for DAR endorsement or a Variation Request. The DAR then assesses this, issues a Letter of Endorsement, and notifies the Department of Home Affairs. Following that, the employer formally requests the DAMA Labour Agreement or Variation Request with the Department. They’ll assess it, and if successful, the employer then lodges a nomination application with the Department of Home Affairs. It’s a layered approach, designed to ensure everything is in order.
Before you even start, there are some crucial groundwork steps. You absolutely must read and understand the DAMA Terms & Conditions and ensure you meet the DAMA Endorsement Requirements. Then comes the documentation – and there’s quite a bit of it. For the endorsement application and variation requests, you’ll need details about your business, proof of accreditation if you’re an approved employer, a signed declaration from an authorised representative, and potentially a Form 956 if you’re using a migration agent. A letter from a chartered accountant confirming your business has been operating lawfully for at least 12 months and has the financial capacity to employ overseas workers is also a must. You’ll also need your lease agreement or council rates, financial reports like profit and loss statements and Business Activity Statements, and a detailed organisational chart. This chart needs to clearly show current employees, vacant positions, reporting lines, and the residency status of everyone. And, importantly, any documents pertaining to investigations or audits by the Fairwork Ombudsman in the last five years need to be provided. It’s a thorough process, but it’s all about ensuring a solid foundation for bringing in skilled talent.
It’s also a good reminder that the Migration Services office will be closed over the Christmas and New Year period, from December 25th. So, keep those dates in mind if you're planning any submissions or inquiries around that time. All in all, Western Australia seems to be actively managing its migration program, offering pathways for both individuals and businesses. It’s a complex landscape, but with careful planning and attention to detail, it’s certainly navigable.
