South Australia's Skilled Migration: Onshore Applications High Demand & Regional DAMA Expansion

Updated On Jun 3, 2024

SA Closes Onshore Skilled Migration & Expands Regional DAMA

As South Australia closes its skilled migration ROI applications for the year amidst intense competition, the extension of DAMAs until 2025 brings hope. The move opens new doors for skilled individuals seeking to settle in South Australia.

South Australia's skilled migration Registration of Interest (ROI) applications for onshore applicants have officially ceased for the 2023-2024 program year, concluding a fiercely competitive process with 12,000 applicants for just 2,300 spots.

Meanwhile, the extension of DAMA’s 128 new occupations and quota slab to 2000 until June 2025 comes with a significant boost in nomination places, providing exciting prospects for those eyeing a move to South Australia.

*DAMA - Designated Area Migration Agreement

South Australia’s Skilled Migration Program: Update for Onshore Applicants

South Australia's skilled migration Registration of Interest (ROI) applications for onshore applicants have officially closed for the 2023-2024 program year. This announcement marks the end of a highly competitive process, as the state received an overwhelming 12,000 ROIs for a limited allocation of just 2,300 places.

The South Australian government has assured applicants that all submitted ROIs will be processed by 30 June 2024. In an effort to streamline the process, the state has indicated that any ROIs still in the online system but not yet submitted will be deleted. This measure ensures that only completed applications are considered.

Those who are successful will receive an invitation to apply for state nomination and are urged to submit their applications promptly.
For those who do not receive an invitation this program year, there is an opportunity to try again. Unsuccessful applicants can submit a new ROI for consideration in the 2024-25 program year.
Meanwhile, offshore applicants remain eligible to submit a SkillSelect Expression of Interest (EOI) and, if successful, will be directly invited to apply for South Australian state nomination.

This development underscores the intense competition and high demand for skilled migration places in South Australia, reflecting the state's appeal and robust economic opportunities.

Quick Reads:

South Australia Expands Regional DAMA Occupations: 128 New Additions

In an exciting development for skilled migrants, South Australia has added 128 new occupations to its Regional Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA), encompassing diverse sectors such as construction and trades, agribusiness, ICT, health, education, and renewable energy.

This expansion highlights the state’s commitment to attracting a wide range of talent to bolster its growing industries.

Furthermore, both DAMAs have been extended until 30 June 2025, with a notable increase in the annual nomination ceiling for the SA Regional DAMA, rising from 750 to 2000 nomination places annually opening up more avenues for skilled individuals seeking to make South Australia their new home.

One of the key highlights of these DAMAs is the retention of pathways to permanent residency for all visa holders. This provides reassurance and stability for individuals planning to settle in South Australia for the long term.
South Australia has retained several key concessions to enhance the DAMA's attractiveness including an age concession of up to 55 years, a 10% reduction to the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT), and concessions related to English proficiency and work experience requirements.
The occupations of Grape Grower (121215), Actors, Dancers and other Entertainers (211999), and Dancer or Choreographer (211112) have been removed from the DAMAs.
South Australian Government continues to serve as a skills-assessing authority for occupations that lack alternative skills-assessing authorities, ensuring a smooth process for applicants.
Additionally, Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa holders nominated under a DAMA occupation that has transitioned between the 2 South Australian DAMAs can apply for the Employer Nominated Scheme (ENS) visa (subclass 186) under the relevant DAMA when eligible, ensuring flexibility and continuity in their migration pathway.

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Join South Australia's Immigrant Population in 2024 With GetGIS

These developments underscore South Australia's commitment to attracting top talent from around the globe. The increased nomination places and extended DAMAs provide a beacon of hope for skilled individuals aiming to establish their future in this vibrant state.

For those navigating the complexities of the immigration process, seeking expert guidance can be invaluable. Consider reaching out to GetGIS for professional assistance to enhance your chances of a successful migration to Australia.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Is South Australia open for migration?

Yes, South Australia has opened its migration program for 2023-24, inviting both onshore and offshore skilled workers from over 250 occupations. Offshore visa procedures remain unchanged, while onshore applicants will use the Registration of Interest (ROI) process.

Q2. How to get PR in South Australia?

To apply for permanent residency in South Australia, live and work in the state for three years on the subclass 491 visa, and meet the minimum taxable income level for three years. You may then be eligible for the subclass 191 Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa.

Q3. Who is eligible for the 189 visa in South Australia?

Applicants must be between 18 and 45 years old, meet the English Competency requirement, and score at least 65 points in the Points Tested Stream through their Expression of Interest to access visa subclass 189.

Q4. Does the TSS visa lead to PR?

Yes, TSS visa holders can transition to permanent residency through the Employer Sponsored Temporary Transition Stream if their occupation is on the Medium Term list and they have worked for the same employer in the same occupation for three years.

Q5. Can the TSS visa be rejected?

Yes, a TSS visa can be rejected if the sponsoring employer does not meet specific requirements or if the employer's nomination is ineligible. Applicants must also demonstrate a genuine intent to work in Australia temporarily.