Labour Agreement Australia: How It Works and How to Find Approved Employers

Navigating skilled migration can be complex, especially when roles are not listed on the standard visa occupation lists. That’s where the Labour Agreement Australia program comes in. It provides a flexible option for employers to sponsor overseas workers in occupations experiencing persistent local shortages. This article explores how the program works, its types, employer requirements, and how to find current approved sponsors.

Understanding Labour Agreement Australia

A Labour Agreement Australia is a formal contract between an Australian employer and the federal government. They are generally in effect for five years and provide for visas to be granted under one or more of the following visa programs: 

• Skills in Demand (SID) visa (subclass 482)

• Employer Nomination Scheme visa (subclass 186)

• Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 494)

These agreements typically last for five years and may include tailored terms such as concessions in English language, work experience, and salary thresholds based on the employer's demonstrated business case and recruitment challenges.

Types of Labour Agreements in Australia

There are five key types of Labour Agreement Australia programs:

Company-Specific Labour Agreements

For employers with niche skill needs not addressed by standard programs or industry templates. Requires:

• Evidence of ongoing recruitment efforts

• Workforce composition showing local employment

• Detailed consultation with unions and industry groups

Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMA)

Used by regional authorities to fill skill gaps in specific areas. Employers must:

• Operate within a designated DAMA region

• Gain endorsement from the Designated Area Representative (DAR)

• Apply for individual labour agreements under the DAMA head agreement

Industry Labour Agreements

Fixed agreements for sectors with known shortages. Currently available for:

• Aged Care

• Restaurant (Premium Dining)

• Horticulture

• Dairy

• Meat

• On-hire

• Advertising

• Fishing

• Pork

• Minister of Religion

These templates have non-negotiable terms and apply to both temporary and permanent visa pathways.

Project Agreements

Designed for infrastructure or resource projects with large-scale workforce needs. Requires DFAT endorsement and allows for customised terms during the construction phase.

Skilled Refugee Labour Agreement Pilot

A special pathway for businesses to sponsor skilled refugees. Facilitated through Talent Beyond Boundaries, this pilot reduces barriers such as English, skills assessments, and income thresholds. Employers must be endorsed and provide post-arrival settlement support.

How Employers Qualify for Labour Agreement Australia

To participate in the Labour Agreement Australia stream, employers must:

• Be an Australian-registered business in good standing

• Operate lawfully for at least 12 months

• Prove financial viability

• Demonstrate the role cannot be filled locally

• Show genuine workforce planning and training efforts

• Provide stakeholder consultation evidence (e.g. unions, community groups)

Applications must be submitted via ImmiAccount, with all supporting documentation, including a job description, recruitment evidence, and salary justification.

How to Find Approved Labour Agreement Employers

Finding an approved employer is essential if you wish to apply through the Labour Agreement Australia stream. The Department of Home Affairs publishes a List of Current Labour Agreements, which includes:

• The business name

• Type of agreement (e.g. DAMA, company-specific)

• Relevant occupations and locations

Access the list here: List of Current Labour Agreements

Labour Agreement Australia: Your Skilled Migration Advantage

The Labour Agreement Australia framework unlocks skilled migration opportunities for roles that fall outside standard visa pathways. Whether you're a skilled worker seeking sponsorship or a business facing persistent labour shortages, these agreements provide a viable and strategic solution.

If you need help navigating the system or want to connect with an approved employer, book a free consultation with our team today. We’re here to simplify your skilled migration journey and help you make informed decisions with confidence.

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