In our recent DAMA Skills Assessment Webinar, our subject matter experts addressed a wide range of questions about qualifications, work experience, and assessment pathways. We know many of you are exploring new opportunities under the Designated Area Migration Agreement, and these answers will help guide your next steps.
We’ve highlighted the Top 10 questions asked by participants, along with expert responses.
1. Do I need a qualification to apply as a Truck Driver (Skill Level 4)?
Not necessarily. For Truck Driver (Skill Level 4), you can qualify either through a relevant qualification or through your employment history. A qualification at Certificate II level is usually sufficient, and there’s no requirement for a specific major. If you don’t hold a qualification, you can still meet the criteria by showing sufficient, relevant work experience.
2. Would a Diploma of Management meet the Truck Driver qualification requirement?
Yes. There’s no prescribed major for this occupation. Any qualification at the required level such as a Diploma of Management can be accepted as meeting the skills assessment criteria.
3. How can farmhand workers prove their experience if they don’t have payslips?
If you’ve been paid in cash and don’t have payslips or bank statements, you can ask your employer for a salary certificate. This certificate should include:
- Your weekly hours
- Your rate of pay
- The tasks you performed
Additional evidence such as contracts or other records will also strengthen your application.
4. Is 35 hours per week considered full‑time for skills assessment purposes?
For our assessments, full‑time employment is defined as 38 hours per week.
Some visa programs use 35 hours as a benchmark, but for a positive VETASSESS assessment, make sure your evidence shows 38 hours per week or more.
5. I’m an offshore truck driver. How do I get the right licence in Australia?
Licensing is separate from the skills assessment process. Once you have your skills assessment, you’ll need to contact the relevant state or territory authority such as VicRoads in Victoria for information about obtaining the correct licence.
6. Can experience gained while studying count towards my application?
Yes. The requirements do not state that experience must be gained after your qualification.
Work that you completed while studying can count, provided it meets the task requirements and the hours needed for your nominated occupation.
7. Are qualifications gained through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) accepted?
Absolutely. If your qualification was formally awarded through RPL and is equivalent to the required AQF level, it can be used for your assessment—even if it was obtained many years ago.
8. How long does it take to complete a DAMA skills assessment?
We aim to finalise DAMA skills assessments within two to three weeks.
If we need to verify additional details—such as overseas qualifications or complex work histories—the process may take a little longer.
9. Can self‑employment or ABN‑based work be used as evidence?
Yes. We do assess experience from contractors or those working under an ABN.
You’ll need to provide:
- A statutory declaration describing your duties and responsibilities, and
- Supporting documents such as invoices, contracts or bank statements to show payment and ongoing work.
10. Does work experience outside the DAMA region count towards eligibility?
In most cases, yes. Unless an occupation specifically states that the work experience must have been completed in Australia or a particular region, relevant experience from overseas or outside the region can be used.
Need More Guidance?
If your circumstances are more complex—such as holding multiple roles, working across regions, or having a mix of qualifications—our team is here to help. Contact us at migrate@vetassess.com.au