The Cairns Chamber of Commerce has released a new update on the Far North Queensland Designated Area Migration Agreement (FNQ DAMA), highlighting three important matters that employers should be aware of.
1. 50% Reduction in the Endorsement Fee for ENS 186
A 50% reduction in the endorsement fee for the ENS subclass 186 visa now applies where the ENS position is requested at the same time as its associated SID subclass 482 position.
For example:
- The SID 482 position is requested for Year 1
- The ENS 186 position is requested for Year 3
This change could provide significant cost savings for employers planning a long-term pathway from the 482 visa to permanent residency.
2. Consider Applying for Age & English Concessions Upfront
Employers should consider requesting the Age Concession and English Concession at the endorsement stage, even if they are not currently certain whether these concessions will be needed.
Requesting a concession retrospectively after endorsement has been granted may result in additional administration fees and potentially longer processing times with the Department of Home Affairs.
As the approval of occupations and positions at the endorsement and Labour Agreement stages is based on the employer's genuine workforce needs, rather than the circumstances of a particular nominee, it is generally better to request an available concession upfront even if there is no immediate need to use it.
3. Aged Care Occupations Remain Available For Now
Another important update relates to Aged Care occupations (excluding Disability Care).
The proposed Deed of Variation, which would remove certain occupations under the Aged Care Industry Labour Agreement from the FNQ DAMA, is currently on hold.
As a result, the following occupations remain available under the FNQ DAMA for now:
- Personal Care Assistant
- Nursing Support Worker
- Aged or Disabled Carer
Employers who are considering requesting endorsement for these occupations are encouraged to submit their requests as soon as possible, so that applications can be progressed before the proposed removal of these occupations takes effect.
What Should Employers Do Now?
If your business is planning to recruit and sponsor overseas workers under the FNQ DAMA, now is a good time to review your workforce and sponsorship strategy in light of these updates.
Need help with your FNQ DAMA strategy or endorsement application? Contact Skill Direct today for professional advice and support!
