Northern Territory DAMA Occupations List: A Comprehensive Guide

May 9, 2025

As of 2025, under the Northern Territory Designated Area Migration Agreement (NT DAMA), overseas workers can access a pathway to Australian employment across a diverse range of occupations. With 325 eligible roles, this scheme supports businesses in addressing labour shortages while providing opportunities for skilled professionals from around the globe. The NT DAMA is integrated into the following visa programs:

4-Year Skills in Demand (subclass 482) Visa: For temporary skilled workers.
5-Year Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) (subclass 494) Visa: For regional employment opportunities.
Permanent Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) Visa: For workers eligible for permanent residency pathways.

Annual Review and Updates

The NT DAMA occupations list is reviewed and updated annually through collaboration between the NT Government and the Australian Government. This review process incorporates:

The NT Skilled Occupations Priority List (NTSOPL), which forms the basis of the NT DAMA list.
Additional labour market intelligence, including submissions from industry peak bodies.

This ensures the list remains relevant to the evolving needs of businesses and the workforce landscape in the Northern Territory.

Industry Feedback and Labour Market Analysis

The Industry Skills Advisory Council NT (ISACNT) plays a pivotal role in shaping the NT DAMA occupations list. By conducting labour market analyses and gathering industry feedback, ISACNT provides recommendations to inform the NTSOPL. Businesses and professionals experiencing occupation shortages are encouraged to share their insights with ISACNT.

Examples of Eligible Occupations by Visa Type

To help you understand the diversity of roles supported under the NT DAMA, here are some examples of occupations eligible for sponsorship based on the visa type:

4-Year Skills in Demand (subclass 482) Visa

This visa supports temporary skilled workers in occupations such as:

Aged or Disabled Carer (ANZSCO 423111)
Automotive Electrician (ANZSCO 321111)
Chef (ANZSCO 351311)
Airconditioning and Refrigeration Mechanic (ANZSCO 342111)
Agricultural and Horticultural Mobile Plant Operator (ANZSCO 721111)

5-Year Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) (subclass 494) Visa

This visa focuses on regional employment opportunities, including:

Beef Cattle Farmer (ANZSCO 121312)
Arborist (ANZSCO 362212)
Bus Driver (ANZSCO 731211)
Cabinetmaker (ANZSCO 394111)
Aquaculture Farmer (ANZSCO 121111)

Permanent Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) Visa

This visa provides pathways to permanent residency for occupations such as:

Child Care Centre Manager (ANZSCO 134111)
Aeroplane Pilot (ANZSCO 231111)
Bookkeeper (ANZSCO 551211)
Beauty Therapist (ANZSCO 451111)
Automotive Electrician (ANZSCO 321111)

Occupations and Sponsorship Categories

Eligible occupations are categorized (from A to P) based on qualification and experience requirements. These categories outline the criteria overseas workers must meet for sponsorship. Additional factors, such as age and English proficiency, may also apply. These concessions are detailed to guide businesses and applicants alike.

For businesses considering sponsorship, it’s essential to note that if an occupation falls under an industry labour agreement, it cannot also be sponsored through the NT DAMA.

ANZSCO Code: What’s Unique About NT DAMA?

Notably, the NT DAMA includes occupations with ANZSCO code 070499, created outside the standard classification system. This unique addition allows the agreement to address niche labour market needs in innovative ways.

For details on specific qualifications, categories, or concessions, visit the official NT Government and Department of Home Affairs websites.