Cairns Chamber of Commerce Submits Request for Changes to FNQ DAMA in Queensland

The Cairns Chamber of Commerce has recently submitted a request to the Department of Home Affairs for changes to the FNQ DAMA (Designated Area Migration Agreement) in Queensland. The Deed of Variation Request includes the addition of eight new occupations, including Sand Blaster, Industrial Spray Painter, Motor Vehicle Parts Interpreter, Nanny, Podiatrist, Kitchen Steward, Plasterer, and Wall and Floor Tiler, without any removals. It also includes the inclusion of the English language concession for chefs and the reduction of the qualification requirement for Child Care Workers from AQF Cert IV to AQF Cert III. In addition, Croydon Shire Council and Etheridge Shire Council are being added to the FNQ DAMA Designated Area, although they are already included by postcode.

The request also includes technical changes to the FNQ DAMA to simplify the process and provide more clarity regarding endorsements during the transition from the current head agreement to the next one, which is scheduled for April 2024. If approved, this change will allow for endorsements for future years beyond the current head agreement, even before a decision has been made on the new head agreement.

The Cairns Chamber of Commerce has also announced that a coding issue in ImmiAccount that was preventing certain occupations from being specified when requesting a Labour Agreement has been resolved. If any further coding issues arise, the chamber advises to contact them for assistance. In addition, the chamber held a round of FNQ DAMA Information Sessions last week and plans to hold more sessions in early 2023, with the hope of covering the proposed variations as well.

During the Christmas period, the Cairns Chamber of Commerce Manager will continue to assess endorsement requests on business days. However, anyone submitting a request must have the endorsement fee paid and receipted before the Administration Team goes on leave. The Cairns Chamber of Commerce office will be closed from December 22 to January 6 and will reopen on January 9. For more information, the chamber advises to check their website for updates on the FNQ DAMA and RCB (Regional Certification Body).