Every year, all States receive quotas from the government, based on which the states and territories nominate skilled and business migrants for the Skilled Nominated visa Subclass 190 and the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa Subclass 491.
Just like last year, the program will continue to respond to the challenges posed by COVID-19, with a strong focus on onshore applicants who can assist the jurisdictions in their post-pandemic economic recovery.
Australian states received allocations for their Skilled Migration Program designed to attract migrants. The General Skilled Migration Program (GSM) is aimed at attracting skilled workers to critical occupations who are willing to migrate to Australia and improve the country’s workforce and meet the changing needs of businesses in its states and territories.
Here’s a state-wise update for the program year 2021-22:
New South Wales
New South Wales continues to be the state with the highest number of allocations for its skilled nomination program. It has received 4,000 places for Subclass 190 and 3,640 for Subclass 491, a significant increase from last year’s total which stood at 6,350.
Australian Capital Territory
The ACT has received 600 more places for its skilled nomination program this year as compared to the last.
Its skilled migration program remains closed to offshore applicants until the federal government reopens the international borders.
Victoria
Victoria has received a total of 4,000 places this year – 3,500 for Subclass 190 and 500 Subclass 491. This is marginally more than the previous program year.
However, this year, Victoria will focus on onshore applicants who are currently living and working in the state in one of the seven target sectors designated by the state based on their STEMM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medical) skills.
The seven target sectors include health, medical research, life sciences, digital, agri-food, advanced manufacturing and new energy, emission reduction and circular economy.
Western Australia
Priority will be given to those using their critical skills in Melbourne’s business precincts, namely, Parkville, Footscray and Docklands.
The General Stream of Skilled Migration in Western Australia is divided into two categories based on occupations: the WA Skilled Migration Occupation List (WASMOL) Schedule 1 and Schedule 2.
For more information about the requirements for WASMOL Schedule 1 and 2.
The state has expanded its occupation lists, but Mr Singh said the most noticeable change in the program is that applicants who apply for General Stream, do not have to be currently studying, working or living in the state to receive a nomination.
All they need is a job offer in the state to be eligible for this stream.
“The WA state nomination is unique and positive as it is open to applicants throughout Australia rather than limiting it to the state. Also, WA’s skilled occupation list is quite liberal with opportunities for trades like motor mechanic, chef, cook and painter. Applicants specifically from Victoria and Queensland will benefit from WA’s state nomination since the options for these occupations are limited in these states,” Mr Singh said.
The state has received 1,100 places for Subclass 190 and 340 for Subclass 491.
State and Territory nominated visa allocations for 2021-2022.
Department of Home Affairs
South Australia
South Australia’s skilled nomination program has received 2,600 places each for subclasses 190 and 491, a total of 1,200 more places than last year.
Mr Singh said the increased allocation would mean applicants will have more chances to secure a nomination.
“The number of allocations is quite promising as they stand at 5,200 spots for the 491 and 190 visas combined, and are only second to NSW. SA is unique in a way that unlike states like Victoria, it didn’t restrict invitations to critical occupations and the trend is likely to continue this financial year as well,” Mr Singh added.
The state’s general skilled migration program is scheduled to reopen on 20 July.
Queensland
Queensland has received the same number of places as the previous year – 1,000 for Subclass 190 and 1,250 for Subclass 491.
The state is currently finalising the criteria for its skilled nomination program, which is scheduled to open in late July.
Tasmania
Tasmania has received 1,100 places for Subclass 190 and 2,200 for Subclass 491, slightly more than last year.
The state will continue to assess applications for the Skilled Nominated visa in this program year which were not finalised by 30 June.
The Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa applications lodged before 20 March, which were not finalised in the last financial year, will also continue to be assessed in the current year.
The state is yet to open its nomination program for 2021-22.
Northern Territory
The Australian jurisdiction with the smallest skilled nominated program has been allocated 1,000 places, 500 each for Subclass 190 and Subclass 491, the same as the previous year.
While the NT program remains open for new onshore applicants, it is closed to overseas applicants. However, all existing applications will be assessed.
Disclaimer: This content is for general information purposes only and should not be used as a professional consultation by a qulaified migration agent. Contact us Registered Migration Agents to review your situation.