NSW and ACT Skilled Migration Allocations for 2025-26: Reduced Quotas Signal a Sharper Focus on Select Skilled Streams

The Department of Home Affairs has confirmed that all Australian states and territories have now received their skilled migration allocations for the 2025-26 program year; even if some have yet to publish their figures publicly. Among the first to disclose their numbers are New South Wales (NSW) and the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), both recording noticeable reductions compared to the previous program year.

NSW Skilled Migration Allocation 2025-26

Total: 3,600 places

• Skilled Nominated (subclass 190): 2,100

• Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491): 1,500

In 2024-25, NSW was allocated 5,000 places (3,000 for subclass 190 and 2,000 for subclass 491). This year’s allocation therefore represents a 28% reduction overall, suggesting a tighter approach to nomination and potentially higher competitiveness for both permanent and provisional skilled visas.

Given NSW’s strong economic pull and its status as Australia’s most sought-after destination for skilled migrants, the reduced quota could reflect a strategic recalibration towards prioritising occupations of critical need rather than broader intake volumes.

ACT Skilled Migration Allocation 2025-26

Total: 1,600 places

• Skilled Nominated (subclass 190): 800

• Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491): 800

By contrast, the ACT has received the same 491 allocation as last year but a 20% reduction in subclass 190 places, dropping from 1,000 to 800. The ACT Government has confirmed it is finalising its next invitation round, which will be announced shortly on its official migration website.

The balanced 800-800 split between permanent and regional skilled pathways underscores the territory’s continued intent to attract talent aligned with its local employment demand while maintaining regional development priorities.

National Context and Emerging Trends

While full figures from other states are yet to be released, the early numbers from NSW and ACT align with a broader tightening trend expected in the 2025-26 skilled migration program. Home Affairs’ confirmation that all jurisdictions have received allocations provides much-needed certainty for applicants and agents anticipating the new program year’s dynamics.

This shift may signal:

• A stronger emphasis on targeted nominations over volume intake.

• Increased competition for high-priority occupations.

• Potential adjustments to selection criteria or invitation frequency, particularly in states with reduced allocations.

Prospective applicants should anticipate more selective state nomination processes and ensure their profiles remain competitive - with updated skills assessments, English test results, and comprehensive EOI submissions.

As further details emerge from other jurisdictions, the national picture will become clearer. However, current indicators point to a year of streamlined selection and strategic targeting across Australia’s skilled migration landscape.

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