A new direction for ACT migration
The ACT Government has announced major updates to its skilled migration program for the 2025–26 financial year. The biggest change is the introduction of the new ACT Nominated Migration Program Occupation List, which replaces the former Critical Skills List.
The updated list reduces the number of eligible occupations from 152 to 105, reflecting the Territory’s sharper focus on priority industries such as healthcare, construction, education, and ICT. This shift is designed to align migration more closely with Canberra’s labour market needs and long-term economic planning.
Who is affected
If you have already submitted an application from the September 2025 invitation round, you are safe. Your application will not be affected, even if your nominated occupation has since been removed.
However, from the next invitation round onwards, only occupations listed on the new ACT Migration Occupation List will be eligible. This means the new list applies to all Canberra Matrix submissions, regardless of when they were lodged.
Other important updates
Alongside the new occupation list, the ACT Government has also refined the nomination guidelines for both Subclass 491 and 190 visas. These changes are mainly clarifying but are worth noting:
- PhD applicants will now be invited as part of regular invitation rounds, rather than every seven business days, though they still receive priority processing.
- 457 and 482 visa holders must have been employed for at least six months with their sponsoring employer before applying for ACT nomination.
- The guidelines now explicitly confirm that 491 invitations are issued before 190 invitations, explaining how this may influence selection chances.
These adjustments aim to make the nomination process more transparent and consistent with the Territory’s economic priorities.
What this means for applicants
For current and future applicants, timing is crucial. The ACT has indicated that it will continue assessing queued applications even after the interim allocation is reached, but actual nomination may only occur once the final allocation is confirmed.
Once that happens, the ACT Government will publish tentative dates for invitation rounds for the rest of the financial year. This will give applicants a better idea of when to expect invitations or updates.
Final thoughts
While the number of occupations has decreased, the ACT’s migration program remains one of the most transparent and accessible in Australia. The Territory continues to prioritise applicants who can show genuine employability, long-term commitment, and alignment with Canberra’s workforce needs.
If you are preparing a Canberra Matrix, make sure your occupation is on the new list, your supporting documents are ready, and your statements clearly show why Canberra needs your skills.
How Aurelia Legal can help
Our migration lawyers can help you assess your eligibility under the updated ACT nomination rules, prepare your Canberra Matrix, and ensure your documentation meets the Department’s and Territory’s current standards.
We provide strategic advice tailored to your circumstances, helping you strengthen your nomination and maximise your invitation chances under the 2025–26 program.
Contact us today to book a consultation.
📞 (03) 9125 8820 | 📧 info@aurelialegal.com.au | 🌐 aurelialegal.makemywebsite.au/
Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. You should seek professional advice before acting based on this content.