The Australian Department of Home Affairs has released the 2025–26 state and territory nomination allocations for the Skilled Nominated (Subclass 190) visa and the Skilled Work Regional (Subclass 491) visa. These allocations determine how many skilled migrants each state and territory can nominate for permanent and provisional residency pathways over the financial year.This year’s figures reveal a significant tightening across both visa subclasses, signaling increased competitiveness and more targeted migration strategies by state governments.
1. National Overview
For the 2025–26 program year, the total number of places allocated is:
Subclass 190: 12,850 places
Subclass 491: 7,500 places
Total: 20,350 places
This marks a notable reduction from the 2024–25 allocation, reflecting the government’s continued shift toward a smaller, more skilled, and more targeted migration program.
2. Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa
National Trend: Reduced Capacity
The 190 program has dropped from 16,500 places last year to 12,850 places in 2025–26, a reduction of 3,650 positions nationwide.
State-by-State Breakdown:
– ACT – 800
– NSW – 2,100
– NT – 850
– QLD – 1,850
– SA – 1,350
– TAS – 200
– VIC – 2,700
– WA – 2,000
Key Observations
- Victoria (2,700 places) now holds the largest 190 allocation, overtaking NSW.
- Western Australia continues an upward trend, reflecting demand in construction, engineering, and health.
- NSW has experienced a significant reduction, likely leading to tougher selection criteria and higher competitiveness.
- South Australia and Tasmania have seen sharp decreases, suggesting more targeted occupation lists and possibly prioritisation for onshore applicants
3. Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional Visa
National Trend: Moderate Decrease
The 491 program decreased from 9,760 places last year to 7,500 places for 2025–26.State-by-State Breakdown:
– ACT – 800
– NSW – 1,500
– NT – 800
– QLD – 750
– SA – 900
– TAS – 650
– VIC – 700
– WA – 1,400
Key Observations
– NSW remains the largest regional program, despite its reduction.
– Western Australia retains a strong focus on regional development, with 1,400 places.
– South Australia continues to prioritise regional migration with 900 allocations.
– States such as Queensland, Tasmania, and Victoria operate moderate-sized programs with selective criteria.
4. What These Changes Mean for Applicants
Higher Competition Across All States!
With reduced nomination numbers, states will become increasingly selective. Applicants with strong points, relevant work experience, and high English proficiency will be favoured.
Emphasis on Targeted Skills
States are expected to prioritise:
– Critical skill shortages
– Health, engineering, construction, and education sectors
– Applicants with strong employment evidence
– Onshore applicants with established ties
491 Remains an Important Pathway
While the 190 program has become more competitive, the 491 visa remains a valuable pathway for applicants willing to live and work in regional Australia.
5. Strategic Advice for 2025–26 Applicants
To remain competitive in the new migration landscape, applicants should consider:
5.1. Maximising Points
– Improve English scores
– Gain additional work experience
– Obtain partner skills points (if applicable)
5.2. Building State/Territory Alignment
– Review each state’s occupation list and nomination criteria
– Strengthen ties such as employment, study, or community engagement
– Prepare compliant documentation early
5.3. Considering Regional Pathways
With limited 190 places, regional options under the 491 visa may provide faster nomination opportunities, particularly in states like NSW, WA, and SA.
5.4. Staying Updated
State nomination programs can change rapidly. Regular monitoring of updates ensures you do not miss closing windows or newly introduced priority occupations.
6. Final Thoughts
The 2025–26 allocation signals a more targeted and strategic skilled migration program, with states focusing on applicants who can meet immediate labourmarket needs. While competition has increased, opportunities remain strong for applicants who prepare early, understand state priorities, and position themselves effectively.
For personalised advice on your best visa pathway under the 2025–26 program, contact our migration team —we’re here to help you navigate every step of the process.
Source: Allocations published on the Department of Home Affairs’websiteon 18 November 2025