New Northern Territory DAMA III: Expanding Opportunities for Skilled Workers

skylarkmigrationma
Jun 10
3 min read

NT DAMA III 2025 skilled visa process in Northern Territory — 482 494 186 Visas: Skilled Migration Opportunities Under NT DAMA III 2025

The Northern Territory (NT) has launched its third iteration of the Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) on March 19, 2025, which promises to increase skilled migration opportunities in the region. This new DAMA, which will last until June 30, 2030, is set to provide employers with a wider pool of skilled workers and create a streamlined process for those seeking to work and live in regional Australia, including access to pathways like the 482, 494, and 186 visas.

What is a DAMA?

A Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) is a special agreement between the Australian Government and designated areas (like the NT) that allows employers to sponsor overseas workers for specific roles that the standard visa programs may not cover. The DAMA provides flexibility by adjusting occupation lists, visa eligibility, and requirements to address local workforce needs. The agreement opens the door for sponsorships under visas like 482, 494, and 186.

NT DAMA III 2025: What’s New for 482 494 186 Visas and Skilled Workers?

NT DAMA III brings a range of improvements for employers and skilled workers:

Expanded Occupation List: The list of occupations eligible for sponsorship has increased from 135 to 325, which gives employers more flexibility when hiring skilled workers for 482, 494, and 186 visa categories.
Increased Nomination Places: The number of nominations per year has more than doubled, from 625 to 1,500. This expansion allows more skilled workers to be sponsored for 482, 494, or 186 visas.
Streamlined Application Process: The process for employers in the NT to apply for overseas workers has been simplified. This means quicker application processing and more efficient business operations.

Who can apply for NT DAMA III?

The NT DAMA III is available to employers in the Northern Territory who meet the following criteria:

Employer Sponsorship: Employers must show that they’ve made genuine efforts to hire locally before seeking overseas workers.
Eligibility: Employers must be endorsed by MigrationNT and be committed to sponsoring skilled workers for eligible occupations listed in the DAMA.
Support Regional Development: The goal of the DAMA is to help develop the NT’s economy by bringing skilled workers to fill roles in key industries.

Benefits for employers and skilled workers

For Employers: NT DAMA III provides businesses in the NT with access to a larger pool of skilled workers. Employers can sponsor workers for positions under the 482 and 494 visas, and even progress workers towards permanent residency through the 186 visa. This is a significant advantage for industries like healthcare, trades, education, and technology, which face ongoing skill shortages.
For Skilled Workers: Skilled migrants who are sponsored under the NT DAMA have a clear pathway to permanent residency (PR). After meeting specific employment conditions under the 482, 494, or 186 visa pathways, workers can transition to permanent residency and build a long-term future in Australia.

How to Apply for NT DAMA III

If you're an employer in the NT, here's the process to follow:

Employer Endorsement: Get endorsed by MigrationNT.
Labour Agreement: Sign a five-year labour agreement with the Department of Home Affairs.
Submit Applications: Once approved, employers can submit applications for overseas workers via the NT DAMA portal.

Applications for NT DAMA III began on March 31, 2025, allowing businesses to start applying to sponsor skilled workers.

Why NT DAMA III Matters for the Northern Territory

NT DAMA III addresses critical skills shortages in the region, particularly in areas where local talent is scarce. By offering employers access to a broader range of skilled workers, this agreement helps businesses fill vacancies more quickly. For skilled workers, the NT DAMA presents a clear path to permanent residency (PR), especially for those looking to work under the 482, 494, and 186 visas.

This agreement supports not only businesses but also the broader development of the NT, contributing to its long-term economic growth.

Skylark Migration: Your Partner in Navigating NT DAMA III

At Skylark Migration, we specialize in helping both employers and skilled workers understand and navigate the complexities of DAMA applications and Australian migration. Whether you’re an employer looking to sponsor workers or a skilled migrant interested in applying for the 482, 494, or 186 visas through NT DAMA III, we’re here to help you every step of the way.