Labour agreements

Types

• Company-specific agreements: for a single business that needs overseas workers in an occupation where no industry, regional or project agreement applies. These are negotiated case by case. The business must be Australian-registered, financially viable and operating for at least 12 months, and that overseas workers cannot exceed one-third of the workforce.
• Industry labour agreements: for whole sectors with ongoing shortages, such as dairy, fishing, meat, pork, aged care and advertising. The terms are fixed and not negotiable.
• DAMAs: regional agreements that need endorsement from a Designated Area Representative and proof you tried to recruit Australians first. See DAMA.
• Project agreements: for large construction or infrastructure projects. They have two tiers: a head deed with the Department, then an industry-style agreement.
• Global Talent Employer Sponsored agreements: for niche, highly skilled roles in innovative businesses, with an established-business stream and a start-up stream.

Labour agreements are generally valid for five years.

Process

1. Confirm standard sponsorship does not work and check for an existing agreement.
2. Prepare a business case.
3. Consult where required (aged care needs an agreement with unions).
4. Lodge a request online in ImmiAccount.
5. Sign the agreement, which sets limits and terms.
6. Lodge nominations and visa applications under the 482, 494 or 186.

Concessions and costs

There is no fee to request an agreement, but nomination and visa fees and the Skilling Australians Fund levy still apply.