On 12 May 2026, the Australian Government confirmed the planning levels for the 2026-27 permanent Migration Program, keeping the overall program size at 185,000 places.
Stream Allocation
The Skilled stream receives 132,240 places (around 71%), the Family stream 52,460 places (around 28%), and the Special Eligibility stream 300 places. This continues the government's approximate 70:30 split between skilled and family migration.
Priority for Onshore Applicants
Approximately 129,590 places are expected to go to migrants already living in Australia, helping temporary visa holders transition to permanent residency while easing pressure on net overseas migration.
Employer-Sponsored Migration Favoured
Within the Skilled stream, allocations have shifted noticeably towards employer-sponsored visas, while some points-tested categories have been trimmed. Applicants relying on state nomination or the Skilled Independent visa should review their strategy early in the program year.
What It Means for You
With strong demand for a fixed number of places, well-prepared applications lodged early in the program year have the best chance of success. Speak to Rosie Consult about the most suitable pathway for your circumstances.