South Australia’s two Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMAs) have been extended until 31 January 2027. The South Australian Government announced the four-month extension on 21 September 2026.
For employers considering a DAMA pathway, the key point is continuity: the existing agreements continue on their current terms while negotiations for a new five-year statewide DAMA conclude.
What has changed?
- Both existing South Australian DAMAs have been extended to 31 January 2027.
- The terms and conditions remain unchanged from the June 2026 variation.
- Details of the proposed new five-year agreement and transition arrangements will be announced once negotiations conclude.
What should employers do now?
Our recommendation is to review the actual workforce requirement before committing to recruitment or a sponsorship strategy. Start with the position’s duties, work location, proposed salary, recruitment history and the candidate’s background, if a candidate has already been identified.
A preliminary discussion can establish the scope of a proper assessment. There is no need to send financial statements or employee identity documents with an initial enquiry.
Do not assume that the proposed five-year agreement is already available, or that an extension of the agreements establishes an individual employer’s or worker’s eligibility. An agreement extension should not be treated as an extension of a person’s visa.
Discuss your South Australian hiring needs
Cornerstone Migration Australia can help assess whether a DAMA strategy is worth exploring for your business.
Request a free 10-minute introductory discovery call, or call 07 3737 7649. Detailed assessments and ongoing work are quoted separately.
Nathan Joo
Registered Migration Agent | MARN 1173091
Cornerstone Migration Australia
General information as at 29 September 2026. Individual circumstances and the applicable requirements must be assessed before proceeding.
Official source: Government of South Australia — Extension for Designated Area Migration Agreements (21 September 2026).
