The Cairns Chamber of Commerce has provided an update on the administration of the Far North Queensland Designated Area Migration Agreement (FNQ DAMA), highlighting a rise in the volume of variation requests being lodged.
The update notes that the FNQ DAMA framework supports forward workforce planning, allowing employers to seek approval for required occupations and positions ahead of time, rather than submitting requests for individual nominees. Variation requests may cover projected staffing needs over a 12 to 24-month period.
The Department of Home Affairs’ Labour Agreement Section has identified that frequent submission of small variation requests creates increased administrative pressure and does not align with the intended operation of the FNQ DAMA. Should this practice continue, the Department may introduce a limitation of one variation request per employer per year.
The Cairns Chamber of Commerce continues to deliver monthly FNQ DAMA information sessions for employers, with the next session scheduled for Wednesday, 4 February 2026. Click here: Cairns Chamber of Commerce