VETASSESS will introduce new online renewal and reassessment options for Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) applicants and replace manual declarations with electronic signatures from 29 June 2026.
The changes will apply through the Professional Skills Recognition (PSR) Application Portal and are intended to streamline the application process for applicants and their authorised representatives. According to VETASSESS, applicants will be able to lodge DAMA renewal and reassessment applications directly through the portal, while declarations will move from handwritten signatures to an online signing process.
Under the new arrangements, applicants may seek a reassessment within 12 months of the completion of their original application. Reassessment requests may be made for either the same occupation or a different occupation. Meanwhile, applicants who previously received a suitable outcome will be able to lodge a renewal application within three years of the date their assessment was completed, provided they are applying for the same occupation.
VETASSESS also confirmed that applicants and their authorised representatives will be able to complete declarations electronically within the portal, eliminating the need to print, sign and upload the form. However, applicants with incomplete applications who have already downloaded and hand-signed the declaration may continue to upload the signed document and submit their applications under the current process.
The changes are expected to simplify the administration of Professional Skills applications and provide greater flexibility for applicants seeking reassessment or renewal under the DAMA program. VETASSESS is Australia’s largest skills assessment provider and assesses hundreds of professional and trade occupations for migration purposes.
How SALIA Lawyers & Associates Can Help
Preparing a skills assessment application requires careful consideration of occupation requirements, qualifications and employment evidence. Errors in documentation or the selection of an inappropriate occupation can affect the outcome of an assessment. SALIA Lawyers & Associates can assist you throughout the skills assessment process by helping you understand the applicable requirements, identify the appropriate assessing authority and prepare supporting documents. Our services are designed to support applicants seeking skills recognition as part of their migration journey to Australia.
Frequently Asked Questions
What changes is VETASSESS introducing from 29 June 2026?
VETASSESS is introducing online DAMA renewal and reassessment options and replacing manual signatures with electronic declarations through the PSR Application Portal.
Can I apply for a VETASSESS reassessment?
Yes. Applicants may request a reassessment within 12 months of the completion of their original application. Reassessment applications may be lodged for the same occupation or a different occupation.
Can I renew my DAMA skills assessment?
Applicants who received an initial suitable outcome may lodge a renewal application within three years of the completion date of their original assessment, provided the application is for the same occupation.
Do I still need to manually sign the declaration?
No. Applicants and authorised representatives will be able to sign the declaration electronically within the application portal.
What if I have already downloaded and signed the declaration?
Applicants with incomplete applications who have already hand-signed the declaration can continue to upload the signed form and submit their application as usual.
When do the changes take effect?
The new measures will commence on 29 June 2026.
Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided is intended as a general guide and should not be relied upon as legal or migration advice. As migration laws and regulations can change, we recommend consulting an Australian Lawyer or Registered Migration Agent for advice tailored to your circumstances.
