Unlocking Opportunities: Skilled Migration and State Nomination Trends for 2025–26
Australia’s 2025–26 Permanent Migration Program was set at 185,000 places, maintaining the 2024–25 levels. The emphasis remains on skilled migration (71%) to fill critical workforce shortages.
Across all states, high‑demand sectors include:
Healthcare
Doctors
Nurses
Allied health
pharmacists
IT/digital
software engineers
ICT managers
Engineering
Civil
Mechanical
mining
Education
school/early childhood teachers
These occupations, when supported by relevant skills assessments, are most likely to secure state nomination (for subclass 190/491) and eventual PR.
In-Demand Occupations by State
The table below summarizes priority occupations and industries targeted by each state’s nomination program (subclasses 190/491):
Note: Occupations and sectors listed are subject to change based on each state or territory’s needs. Please refer to the official state or territory migration websites or contact us to find out if your occupation has a relevant opportunity.
Sectors Leading to PR Under the 2025–26 Program
The 2025–26 migration program continues to focus on sectors facing national skills shortages. The government highlights technology, healthcare, and engineering as key high-demand industries.
Priority occupations include:
Technology & Digital: software developers, data scientists, cybersecurity specialists, ICT project managers, and emerging roles in new energy technologies.
Healthcare & Medical: physicians (GPs, specialists, surgeons), nurses, pharmacists, and allied health professionals such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and radiographers.
Education: school teachers at all levels and early childhood educators, addressing ongoing teacher shortages across Australia.
Construction & Engineering: civil, electrical, mechanical, mining, and environmental engineers; construction project managers; and skilled trades including plumbers, electricians, and carpenters essential for infrastructure and resource development.
Agriculture & Food: farm and agricultural managers, with Tasmania notably prioritizing livestock farmers and beekeepers.
Advanced Manufacturing & Renewables: roles in aerospace, robotics, and renewable energy engineering, reflecting the future-focused industries in states like South Australia.
Generally, skilled migrants in these fields have the strongest prospects for state nomination (Subclass 190 or 491) and permanent residency—either directly through 190 or via the pathway from 491 to 191. For distinguished experts, the revamped Talent and Innovation visa (replacing the Global and Distinguished Talent visas) offers a streamlined route to PR, particularly for top-tier STEM and innovation professionals.
Trends: Offshore vs Onshore Invitations
Invitation patterns vary by state and visa category, but both offshore and onshore skilled migrants continue to have strong opportunities.
Federal SkillSelect Rounds
The Department of Home Affairs regularly issues invitations to both offshore and onshore candidates who have submitted Expressions of Interest (EOI). Recent rounds have prioritized overseas applicants to address a significant backlog, with many invitations going to foreign candidates. However, a substantial share of final permanent skilled visas are still granted to individuals already in Australia, often those transitioning from temporary visas.
State Nomination Programs
Most states welcome both onshore and offshore applicants, though specific pathways may favor local candidates.
In Tasmania, the Skilled Graduate Pathway is restricted to applicants residing within the state.
Northern Territory has limited its 491 invitations to onshore residents with imminent visa expiries.
By contrast, Victoria and NSW continue to nominate skilled offshore candidates for select priority occupations.
Regional Emphasis
Subclass 491 visas are designed for candidates living and working in regional Australia. Many states set aside portions of their invitation quotas specifically for regional employment, targeting both onshore and offshore applicants willing to reside in designated areas. For example, Tasmania’s 491 stream places particular emphasis on local regional employment.
In summary, both offshore and onshore pathways remain open across states, with NT and TAS offering unique onshore opportunities while federal SkillSelect and several state programs continue to nominate high-demand offshore candidates. Being onshore may be advantageous in certain pathways but is not an overarching requirement for skilled migration success.
Ready to Begin Your Australian Migration Journey?
The 2025–26 skilled migration landscape offers significant opportunities, but navigating state programs, occupation lists, and changing requirements can be complex. Whether you're a cook, chef, tradie, or skilled professional, the right guidance can make the difference between success and costly delays.
What Our Migration Consultation Includes
✅ Personalized pathway assessment for your specific occupation and circumstances
✅ State-by-state eligibility review to identify your strongest nomination opportunities
✅ Skills assessment guidance tailored to cooks, chefs, trades, and skilled professionals
✅ Timeline and cost breakdown with no hidden fees
✅ Strategic advice on onshore vs offshore pathways
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Discover which states are actively nominating your occupation
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