Southwest DAMA Transitioning to WA DAMA December 2026

The Southwest DAMA Transitioning to WA DAMA December 2026 marks a significant change to Western Australia’s regional migration framework. The current South-West DAMA will be incorporated into the new state-wide WA DAMA from December 2026, shaping future employer-sponsored migration settings in the region.

What is a DAMA?

A Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) is a formal labour agreement between the Australian Government and a regional area. It allows local employers to sponsor skilled and semi-skilled overseas workers for positions they cannot fill locally, often with concessions to English, salary, or age requirements.

The South-West DAMA

The South-West DAMA supports employers across Western Australia’s south-west by providing access to overseas workers to meet labour shortages in industries such as hospitality, agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare.

The WA DAMA

The WA DAMA is a new state-wide agreement designed to bring multiple regional arrangements under one unified system. It aims to simplify access to skilled migration options for employers and offer clearer, more consistent settings across Western Australia.

The Shire of Dardanup has confirmed that the South-West DAMA will transition into this broader WA DAMA in December 2026.

What the Transition Means

1. Employers with Existing Labour Agreements

Current Labour Agreements under the South-West DAMA will remain active. Employers can continue using the occupations, concessions, and conditions already approved for as long as their agreement is valid.

2. Skilled Workers on DAMA Visas

Visas granted under the South-West DAMA will remain valid for their full duration. The transition does not affect any visa already issued.

3. New Applicants After December 2026

Any new DAMA-related applications will be assessed under the WA DAMA. Applicants may see updated occupation lists, concessions, and eligibility requirements depending on the new framework.

Why This Change Is Occurring

The move to a single WA DAMA aims to:

• Improve consistency across all WA regions

• Streamline employer-sponsored migration processes

• Provide clearer long-term planning for workforce needs

• Replace multiple regional DAMAs with one coordinated agreement

Who Should Prepare Now

• South-West employers planning future sponsorship

• Skilled migrants considering WA DAMA pathways

• Businesses expecting labour shortages beyond 2026

Southwest DAMA Transitioning to WA DAMA December 2026: Book Consultation

The Southwest DAMA Transitioning to WA DAMA December 2026 signals a shift toward a unified and more efficient migration system for Western Australia. While existing agreements and visas remain protected, employers and skilled workers should prepare early for new requirements under the WA DAMA from 2026.

For personalised guidance tailored to your occupation or business needs, book a consultation with our registered migration agent.

Book Consultation