SA DAMA & Industry Labour Agreements: What You Need to Know

If you're an employer or business operator in South Australia, here’s a simple update on recent changes to skilled migration programs that may affect you.

Good News First: SA DAMA Extended

South Australia’s Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMAs) have now been extended until 30 June 2026. That means businesses can continue using this agreement to sponsor skilled workers in eligible roles where local workers aren't available.

But There’s a Key Change Starting 1 July 2025

From 1 July 2025, if a job is listed under an Industry Labour Agreement (ILA), that job can no longer be used under the SA DAMA. Instead, employers must use the Industry Labour Agreement pathway for that role.

Think of it this way:

If a job appears in both the SA DAMA list and an ILA — you must go with the ILA.

What This Means for Employers

If you’re planning to:

• Apply for a new Labour Agreement under SA DAMA, or

• Change or update an existing one (like changing the number of sponsored workers)...

You’ll now need to follow the Industry Labour Agreement process if your occupation is covered there.

The rules and conditions of the ILA will apply, not the DAMA.

And What About ENS (Employer Nomination Scheme) Applications?

This change also applies to ENS nominations. But here’s some relief:

If the skilled worker already spent time working for you under the DAMA, that time still counts towards the experience needed for a permanent visa under the ILA.