A range of changes to Australia's skilled migration settings took effect on 1 July 2026. Here is what employers and skilled applicants need to know.
Income Thresholds Increase
The Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT) has risen from AUD 76,515 to AUD 79,423. This applies to Skills in Demand (subclass 482) nominations in the Core Skills stream and to Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) nominations. The Specialist Skills Income Threshold has increased from AUD 141,210 to AUD 146,717.
Skills in Demand Visa Fully Bedded In
The Skills in Demand visa has now completely replaced the old Temporary Skill Shortage visa, operating on a three-tier, demand-driven model. The Core Skills Occupation List remains the key reference for eligible occupations, with strong coverage of healthcare, IT, engineering, construction and teaching roles.
Higher Government Fees
Visa application charges across most subclasses have increased in line with the annual indexation, with some categories seeing larger jumps. Budget carefully for the full cost of your application.
New Processing Priorities
A new Ministerial Direction prioritises applications in healthcare, teaching, construction, law enforcement and defence, and gives higher priority to applicants already in Australia and contributing to the workforce. Previous priority for regional positions and Accredited sponsors has been removed.
Contact Rosie Consult to check how these changes affect your nomination or visa application.