Introduction
Australia’s state nomination programs for skilled migration have begun announcing their allocations and updates for the Financial Year 2025–26 program. These updates are very important for applicants who seek permanent residency through state and territory nomination pathways (via visa subclasses 491 and 190). Below are some updates for ACT, NT and Tas as of 14 September 2025.
What we know so far
ACT (Australian Capital Territory) State Nomination
Interim Allocation
ACT has been given a temporary allocation of 165 places for the 2025–26 Financial Year, which may be to clear applications from 2024-2025. The full allocation from the Australian Government is still pending. This is an important opportunity for skilled migrants who are planning to settle in Canberra.
Invitation Rounds
- Most Recent Round: The latest invitation round under the Canberra Matrix was held on 30 May 2025.
- First Round for 2025–26: The first invitation round for the 2025–26 financial year is expected to take place by 15 September 2025.
- Subsequent invitation rounds will be announced once the full allocation is confirmed.
Program Status
- BIIP (Business Innovation & Investment Program): Still closed, no new applications are being accepted.
- Visa 858 (Global Talent/National Innovation): ACT has not yet opened a nomination process for this visa subclass.
Northern Territory (NT)
Interim Allocation
The NT Government has also received a small interim allocation while waiting for the full program allocation. There are a limited number of subclass 491 nominations available for eligible onshore applicants who meet certain visa deadlines before 31 December 2025.
Until the interim allocation is exhausted, new subclass 491 nomination applications will be accepted by exception for onshore applicants who meet the NT Graduate or NT Resident criteria, and have the following visa deadlines falling before 31 December 2025:
- those who have visas expiring before 31 December 2025 and are not eligible for a Temporary Graduate Visa;
- those who are due to become ineligible for the GSM program due to turning 45 years of age before 31 December 2025;
- those who have birthdays falling before 31 December 2025, resulting in their skilled migration points for subclass 491 falling below 65.
Tasmania State Nomination
Tasmania has received 165 places for Migration program for the 2025-2026 year (Visa 190: 85, Visa 491: 80). Invitation rounds are prioritising candidates who have already been living and working in the state.
Updates from Other States
A broader snapshot as of 12 September 2025 shows:
- Western Australia (WA): Program not yet open, temporary allocation is being used to process leftover 2024–25 applications.
- South Australia (SA): Not accepting new ROI (Registration of Interest) applications, focusing on strong candidates who lodged in 2024–25. Updated their Skills Occupation list
Key Takeaways for Applicants
This is a critical opportunity for skilled migrants looking to settle in ACT, NT or Tasmania. Applicants should:
- Prepare their documentation early to ensure they are ready for the first invitation rounds.
- Stay updated on further announcements regarding full allocations and additional invitation rounds.
- Seek professional guidance if needed to maximize their points and eligibility.
Need help with migration and visa consultations and applications? Contact our Experienced Registered Migration Agents today at 07 3003 1899 or hello@migration.com!