Don’t Miss Out: Interim Allocations for Skilled Visas Filling Quickly
Australia's skilled migration initiative is in constant flux, and this month brings significant updates for those awaiting state or territory nominations. Certain states have been granted preliminary allocations – provisional visa slots – enabling them to extend invitations while the definitive allocations are being finalized.
What Are Interim Allocations?
Interim allocations represent limited, temporary quotas provided to states and territories at the commencement of each migration year. These allocations function as an initial phase, allowing states to:
Address outstanding applications from the preceding year.
Target candidates in high-demand occupations.
Keep nomination programs moving before the full allocation is released
For applicants, this means:
✔️ Early invitations for some candidates, especially those with crucial skills.
❌ Most states will not hold full nomination rounds until after final allocations are announced
Which States and Territories Have Interim Allocations?
As of September 2025, the following jurisdictions have interim allocations:
Tasmania: Has 165 nomination places temporarily available (85 for Subclass 190, 80 for Subclass 491). These are mainly used to finalize pending applications from the previous year. New applications are not open yet.
Western Australia: Only a few places allocated to clear backlog applications from last year. The general program is still closed for new applications.
Australian Capital Territory (ACT): Allocated 165 places on an interim basis (85 for 190, 80 for 491).
South Australia: Small interim allocation available just to clear last year’s applications; no fresh applications are open now.
Queensland: Has issued an interim allocation of 250 places and expects to receive the full annual allocation soon. The nomination program opened for new applications on 19 September 2025.
Northern Territory: Limited interim places for applicants onshore (already in Australia) requiring urgent nominations due to visa expiry or age limits.
Note: Some states do not publicly list exact interim numbers. Interim allocations are small by design, meant to process priority cases first.
How Interim Allocations Are Being Used
Because these allocations are limited, states are very selective. Most are:
Clearing last year’s backlogs: Priority is given to applicants who were approved last year but missed out due to quota limits.
Focusing on critical occupations: Health, trades, teaching, and regional roles get preference.
Limited new invitations: States are generally not opening large-scale Registration of Interest’s (ROI) until final allocations arrive.
What This Means for Applicants
If you already lodged an EOI or ROI: You may gain an advantage from the interim allocations by getting an early invitation, especially if you're in a high-demand job.
If you haven’t applied yet: Don’t worry. The main opportunity comes when states receive full allocations. Now is the time to prepare your documents and ensure your EOI is up to date.
Steps to Take Now
Update your EOI: Make sure your skills, employment history, and English test results are updated.
Monitor state’s official migration website: Invitation windows can open quickly. Stay informed.
Prepare your supporting documents: Skills assessments, employment references, and police checks can take time — have them ready.
Seek professional advice if needed: A registered migration agent can help ensure you are ready for interim or full invitations.
Looking Ahead
Final allocations will be released soon, triggering broader invitation rounds.
States may adjust occupation lists and eligibility requirements once the final numbers are set.
Key Takeaway
Interim allocations are a warm-up. They allow states to keep programs running and invite priority candidates, but the main migration opportunities will come with the final allocations. Use this time wisely to prepare and stay ready.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Navigating the complexities of interim allocations and varying state nomination programs is challenging. We offer:
Guidance on managing your EOI and registration of interest submissions
Document review and preparation to meet state requirements
Monitoring of nomination windows and timely application advice
Full support through every step of your visa application
Contact us today for expert assistance and ensure you’re ready to seize opportunities during this dynamic migration period.
