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Far North Queensland (FNQ) DAMA
The Far North Queensland (FNQ) Designated Area Migration Agreement is a specialised skilled migration program tailored to the workforce needs of the FNQ region. It provides far greater flexibility than traditional skilled migration pathways, offering more certainty for both employers and migrant workers seeking long-term opportunities in regional Queensland.
Introduction to the Far North Queensland DAMA
The FNQ DAMA operates under a Labour Agreement framework.
This means:
Employers can request approval for one or multiple occupations within a single agreement.
They do not need to identify specific overseas workers at the time of application, which allows businesses to plan and recruit strategically.
Workers can be nominated later, once the Labour Agreement has been established.
Typically, a DAMA Labour Agreement remains active for five years and may be varied during this period if additional occupations or positions need to be added.
As with all migration programs, the priority remains employment opportunities for Australian citizens and permanent residents. However, the FNQ DAMA provides a customised and accessible solution for employers who genuinely cannot fill roles locally.
Employer Eligibility – Who Can Access the FNQ DAMA?
To access a Labour Agreement under the FNQ DAMA, employers must first be endorsed by the Cairns Chamber of Commerce, which acts as the Designated Area Representative (DAR) for Far North Queensland.
Businesses may be eligible if they:
Operate within the FNQ DAMA Designated Area, which includes:
Cairns Regional Council, Douglas Shire, Mareeba Shire, Tablelands Regional Council, Cassowary Coast, Cook Shire, Croydon Shire, Etheridge Shire, Torres Shire, Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council, and Weipa Town Authority.Have been actively trading for at least 12 months, unless exceptional circumstances apply.
Have no history of failing to meet their workplace or employment obligations.
Are seeking to employ overseas workers in full-time roles that align with one of the occupations listed on the FNQ DAMA Occupation List.
Can demonstrate that they were unable to recruit suitably qualified Australian workers for the position.
Provide employment conditions to overseas workers that match those offered to Australian workers in the same region.
FNQ DAMA Occupation List
The FNQ DAMA includes a diverse range of occupations across industries such as tourism, hospitality, agriculture, transport, construction, and health.
Each occupation has been selected to address identified gaps in the local labour market.
To view the complete and updated list of eligible roles, consult the official FNQ DAMA Occupation List.
Explore Opportunities in Far North Queensland
If you are interested in building your career in one of Australia’s most dynamic regional economies, the FNQ DAMA offers accessible pathways for skilled and semi-skilled workers.
Go Global Immigration can help assess your eligibility and guide you through the entire process—ensuring a streamlined and successful migration experience.
Start your FNQ DAMA journey today by connecting with our expert team.
FAQs – Far North Queensland (FNQ) DAMA
It is a regional skilled migration program that allows employers in Far North Queensland to sponsor overseas workers for occupations facing local shortages.
Most Labour Agreements remain valid for five years and can be varied to include new positions or occupations.
Yes. Employers can request approval for one or multiple occupations within a single Labour Agreement.
No. Workers do not need to be identified initially; they can be nominated later once the Labour Agreement is approved.
Areas include Cairns, Douglas Shire, Tablelands, Mareeba, Cassowary Coast, Cook Shire, Croydon, Etheridge, Torres Shire, Northern Peninsula, and Weipa Town Authority.
Get in Touch with Us
If you wish to know more details regarding the visa services Go Global Immigration Advisors offers, visit our office to have a chat with our migration experts or fill out the form below so one of our team members will get in touch with you.
We look forward to assisting you with pursuing your dream.
LOOKING FOR VISA OPTIONS?
Complete the form below & one of our team members will be in touch.