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A complete state‑by‑state breakdown of the latest Subclass 190 and 491 skilled migration invitation rounds across Australia for the 2025–26 program year.
Which Australian states are actually inviting skilled migrants in 2026 — and what really matters more than points alone.
In this article
Australia’s General Skilled Migration (GSM) program in the 2025–26 financial year has become increasingly targeted and strategic. State and territory governments are no longer inviting purely on points alone. Instead, invitations under Subclass 190 and Subclass 491 are being issued based on occupation demand, employment location, and genuine commitment to the nominating state. For skilled migrants, understanding where invitations are being issued — and why — is critical to migration success.
New South Wales conducted its most recent targeted Subclass 190 invitation round in March 2026, focusing on construction, healthcare, and ICT occupations. Points varied significantly depending on demand and profile strength. Importantly, NSW’s Subclass 491 program is now closed for the remainder of the program year, meaning applicants must consider Subclass 190 or alternative states.
Victoria continues to operate a rolling invitation system based on Registration of Interest (ROI). Recent invitations show that having skilled employment in Victoria is often more influential than achieving a high points score. Healthcare, construction, and trades remain priority sectors, while ICT occupations tend to require higher competitiveness.
Queensland remains active for both Subclass 190 and 491 visas, particularly in construction and infrastructure roles. A significant positive development is Queensland’s acceptance of casual and self‑employed work experience in construction. With major infrastructure projects underway, Queensland continues to offer strong opportunities for eligible skilled workers.
South Australia continues to issue large volumes of invitations through regular monthly rounds. Health professionals dominate recent invitations, followed by engineering, ICT, and construction trades. For applicants willing to settle outside major eastern capitals, South Australia remains one of the most realistic nomination pathways.
Western Australia is increasingly issuing targeted invitation rounds aligned with critical industry needs, particularly construction trades. Some invitations have been issued at relatively low points, reflecting strong demand rather than competition. WA remains active but selective as its allocation fills.
Tasmania operates a unique system that prioritises genuine connection to the state rather than points alone. Weekly invitation rounds continue under Gold and Green Pass pathways. Applicants who live, work, or study in Tasmania are significantly more competitive.
The ACT continues to invite candidates through the Canberra Matrix system, with the majority of invitations issued to Canberra residents and critical skill occupations. Offshore applicants face stronger competition but opportunities still exist. The final invitation round for the program year is expected in May 2026.
The Northern Territory has reached its full nomination allocation and is currently closed for new GSM nominations. However, employer‑sponsored DAMA pathways remain available.
In 2026, successful skilled migration is about strategy, not guesswork. Selecting the right state, aligning with occupation demand, and understanding nomination trends can significantly improve your chances of receiving an invitation. Professional guidance can make the difference between waiting indefinitely and moving forward with confidence.
Next step
Speak directly with a MARA-registered migration agent before making your move. Get clarity, get confidence.