Australian State & Regional Migration Program (Subclass 190 & 491) Update: 2026 Policy and Invitation Outlook

As the 2025-26 migration program year moves into its final 5 months, state and territory nomination data provides a clear indication of where invitation activity is most likely to intensify. A review of allocations versus invitations issued to date under the Subclass 190 (State Nominated) and Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional) programs reveals that a significant proportion of places remain available across most jurisdictions. This has important implications for applicants planning submissions in early 2026.

Allocation Position Across States

States With More Than 65% of Allocations Remaining

These jurisdictions are statistically positioned to continue or increase invitation activity before the end of the financial year. From a policy perspective, these figures indicate that the majority of states cannot rely on limited or token invitation rounds alone.

Emerging State Trends: SA and WA as Early Indicators

Both South Australia and Western Australia have already begun adjusting their invitation strategies.

January 2026 rounds in both states recorded approximately 3 times the number of invitations compared to earlier rounds in the program year. These rounds were highly targeted, focusing on priority industries rather than broad occupation lists. To fully utilise allocations, further rounds - including targeted and industry-specific selections will be required and this was the case in last round from WA, and state have confirmed that in the March round, there will invitations for applicants from ICT, Engineering backgrounds.

This shift suggests a deliberate move toward allocation catch-up while maintaining labour market alignment. Based on historical patterns, similar approaches are likely to be adopted by other states as year-end approaches.

Invitations and Points Thresholds

Expected Developments

• Increased invitation volumes after upcoming SkillSelect (189) rounds, as states recalibrate allocation delivery.

• Slight easing of nomination cut-off points in some jurisdictions, particularly where allocations remain materially underutilised.

• Continued preference for occupation-driven selection, rather than purely points-based competition.

Occupations Likely to Remain Prioritised

Across most states and regional programs, demand remains consistently strong for:

• ICT and digital professionals

• Engineering disciplines

• Construction and infrastructure roles

• Health occupations

• Education and social services, including teaching

These sectors continue to align with state workforce planning frameworks and regional development objectives.

Strategic Considerations for Applicants

Applicants should not interpret lower invitation activity earlier in the year as an indicator of reduced opportunity. On the contrary, allocation data suggests that the second half of the program year may present stronger nomination prospects, particularly for candidates aligned with priority sectors and state-specific criteria. Timely preparation - including skills assessments, English testing, and state-ready documentation will be critical as invitation rounds become more frequent and targeted.

To explore suitable study options or state and regional migration pathways, you may book a phone consultation via Newsted Global’s website, or message the team directly on WhatsApp for guidance aligned with current state nomination settings.

At Newsted, we acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work and live, and pay our respects to Elders past and present. We extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.