DAMA NSW – Orana DAMA & Occupation List

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New South Wales currently has one active Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA): the Orana DAMA, managed by Regional Development Australia – Orana, NSW.

This agreement is designed to help regional NSW employers sponsor skilled and semi-skilled overseas workers for hard-to-fill roles, supporting economic growth in the Orana region.

If you’re a business owner looking for a DAMA area in NSW or want to know which occupations are eligible, this page is your complete guide.

What is the Orana DAMA?

The Orana DAMA is a formal agreement between the Australian Government and Regional Development Australia – Orana, NSW.
It covers businesses operating in the Orana region (including Dubbo, Coonabarabran, and surrounding areas) and allows for sponsorship in a wider range of occupations, with special concessions.

Orana DAMA = the only DAMA area in NSW
Flexible options for local employers facing genuine skill shortages

DAMA Areas in NSW (2025)

Orana Region (Central and Northwest NSW)
Managed by Regional Development Australia – Orana, NSW
Major towns: Dubbo, Coonabarabran, Gilgandra, Cobar, Warren, and more

Currently, Orana is the only designated DAMA area in NSW. If your business is outside this region, DAMA sponsorship is not available.

Orana DAMA Occupation List (2025)

The Orana DAMA occupation list includes over 70 skilled and semi-skilled roles across industries such as health, agriculture, hospitality, construction, and automotive.

Sample occupations:

Chef / Cook
Diesel Mechanic
Registered Nurse
Aged Care Worker
Civil Engineer
Hospitality Manager
Agricultural Technician
Early Childhood Teacher

See the full Orana DAMA occupation list here

Tip: If you’re looking for the most up-to-date DAMA occupation list in NSW, always check with Regional Development Australia – Orana, or contact our expert team.

How to Apply for Orana DAMA Sponsorship

Check eligibility:
Your business must operate within the Orana region and have genuine workforce shortages.
Seek endorsement:
Apply for endorsement from RDA Orana, demonstrating your business need and local recruitment efforts.
Apply for a labour agreement:
Submit a DAMA application to the Department of Home Affairs after RDA endorsement.
Nominate and sponsor workers:
Once approved, nominate overseas candidates for relevant visas (e.g., 482, 494, 186) under Orana DAMA terms.

Why Choose Orana DAMA?

Access to a wider occupation list (compared to standard skilled migration)
Flexible concessions on English, age, and salary for many roles
Permanent residency pathways for eligible positions
Support regional NSW growth by filling critical skill gaps

Ready to Sponsor Overseas Talent in Regional NSW?

If your business is in the Orana region and you’re struggling with skill shortages, a DAMA labour agreement could be your solution.

📞 Call us: 0485 907 989
📧 Email: jade@jadeimmigrationlawyers.com.au
📝 Submit an online enquiry or
📅 Book a consultation We assist clients across Australia and internationally.

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FAQ

Find answers to common questions about our Labour Agreement services and processes. If you need further assistance, please contact us.

Are there other DAMA areas in NSW besides Orana?

No. Currently, the Orana region is the only area in NSW with an active DAMA.

What types of occupations can be sponsored?

The Orana DAMA occupation list covers a wide range of skilled and semi-skilled roles.

Can my business in Sydney access DAMA sponsorship?

No. DAMA is available only to businesses operating within the Orana region of NSW.

Does the Orana DAMA offer concessions?

Yes. The Orana DAMA provides concessions on English, salary, and age for certain roles.

How can I get started?

Contact Jade Immigration Lawyers for a free assessment and expert support throughout the DAMA process.