The following FAQs relate to the Orana DAMA
Why do we need DAMA for the Orana region?
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In workforce.
What occupations are included in the Orana DAMA?
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The Orana DAMA includes 73 occupations across multiple industries. The DAMA seeks to address skills shortages across a broad range of industries that are significant to employers in the Orana region. The approved list of skilled workers includes jobs such as childcare workers, hospitality supervisors and disability workers to help fill shortages in these industries. A complete list of occupations is available HERE.
What does the DAMA application process involve?
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The DAMA application process is rigorous, to ensure any regional jobs are available to Australians as a first priority. Employers need to demonstrate that the job cannot be filled by an Australian and that the conditions being offered to the migrant nominee are at least those expected by an equivalent Australian employee.
It also requires the skilled migrant to undertake a skills assessment for selected occupations, demonstrating their competence and qualifications, as well as an English language test.
Is my business eligible to sponsor an overseas worker through the Orana DAMA?
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Businesses can access the Orana DAMA if they are actively operating in the Orana region and meet the following criteria:
- Are financially viable and have been operating for at least 12 months
- Have no history of not meeting its obligations to employees (adverse information)
- Are looking to employ overseas workers to fill full-time positions with duties that align with one of the occupations on the Orana DAMA list (current employees on other visas may be eligible to apply)
- Can demonstrate they cannot fill the position locally with Australian citizens or permanent residents
- Can provide terms and conditions of employment to overseas workers that are in accordance with those offered to equivalent Australian workers employed in the region.
Do workers who migrate through the DAMA have to reside in the Orana region?
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Yes. All workers employed in Australia under the Orana DAMA are required to live and work in our region.
What are the costs associated with a DAMA application?
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All DAMA endorsement applications will incur an up-front processing fee of $990 plus GST per position
Other fees and charges associated with accessing the Orana DAMA may include:
- skills verification for selected occupations – Skills Assessing Authority
- nomination application – Department of Home Affairs
- worker visa application – Department of Home Affairs
- Skilling Australians Fund levy – Australian Government.