On 2 September 2025, the Australian Government confirmed that the permanent Migration Program for 2025–2026 will remain at 185,000 places, the same as the previous year.
The program maintains a strong focus on skills. The Skill stream accounts for 132,200 places (71 per cent) and is designed to strengthen the economy and address skill shortages, particularly in regional areas. The Family stream makes up 52,500 places (28 per cent), helping Australians reunite with their loved ones and providing pathways to citizenship. The Special Eligibility stream is allocated 300 places, reserved for unique circumstances such as permanent residents returning to Australia after time overseas.
While these program settings remain unchanged, the spotlight now falls on the distribution of places across the states and territories, where demand for skilled nominations remains highly competitive. All states are currently preparing their allocations for the 2025–2026 program year. Some, including Tasmania, South Australia and Western Australia, have already received interim allocations to manage carryover applications. In addition, Queensland has taken an early step by releasing its updated occupation list for both onshore and offshore applicants and has started accepting Registrations of Interest (ROIs) since 19 September 2025.
Tasmania
Tasmania has been issued an interim allocation of 165 skilled visa nomination places, split between 85 Subclass 190 visas and 80 Subclass 491 visas.
These places are being used to finalise provisionally approved applications left over from the 2024–2025 program year. All Subclass 491 applicants will be nominated, while Subclass 190 nominations are being prioritised for applicants in Australia whose current visas are about to expire or who are on bridging visas.
The program is not yet open to new ROIs, and further details will be announced once Tasmania’s full allocation for 2025–2026 is confirmed.
South Australia
South Australia has also received a small interim allocation for the 2025–2026 program year. Due to the limited number of places, Skilled and Business Migration (SBM) will not open for new registrations of interest. Instead, the state will focus on inviting strong applicants already in the system, particularly those who meet workforce needs across key industries.
Policy settings and a wider program opening will follow once the Commonwealth Government provides South Australia with its full allocation.
Western Australia
Western Australia has been given a limited interim allocation, which will be used to clear applications carried over from the 2024–2025 program year.
The state has confirmed that the 2025–2026 program year will not open to new applicants until it receives its full allocation from the Federal Government. Updates will be provided through their official State Nominated Migration Program page.
Queensland
Queensland is preparing for the year ahead, even though its final allocation is yet to be confirmed. Their 2025–2026 State Nominated Migration Program has not formally opened, but candidates are able to lodge their ROIs from 19 September 2025 in readiness. In addition, Queensland has already released its updated list of eligible occupations for both onshore and offshore applicants, which can be accessed on its official website.
Although the total Migration Program remains unchanged at 185,000 places, the real outcomes for skilled workers will depend on state and territory allocations. With interim allocations already shaping early opportunities, applicants are advised to closely follow updates from each state.
Whether you are seeking to secure a place under the Skill stream or looking to reunite with loved ones through the Family stream, SALIA Lawyers & Associates can provide expert advice and personalised support to guide you through the process. Contact us now and get started.
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.
