The 2026–27 migration changes, summarised

The 2026–2027 financial year signals a "recalibration" of Australia’s migration system. Rather than aiming for rapid expansion, the government is focusing on productivity, integrity, and prioritizing migrants who are already living and working in Australia.

If you are navigating the system, the primary shift is away from "opportunistic" offshore recruitment toward a structured, highly competitive landscape that rewards those already integrated into the Australian workforce.

1. Permanent Migration Program: The Big Picture

The total permanent migration cap remains steady at 185,000 places, with the traditional 70% Skilled / 30% Family split. However, the composition of these spots has changed significantly to prioritize those already onshore.

Category	2026–27 Strategy
Onshore Priority	129,590 places (approx. 70%) are reserved for people already in Australia.
Offshore Allocation	55,110 places are reserved for highly skilled migrants meeting long-term needs.
Employer-Sponsored	Major winner: Increased to 58,040 places (up from 44,000).
Skilled Independent (189)	Increased to 21,090 places to support highly skilled independent migrants.
Regional Visas	Decreased significantly to 14,110 places; expect much higher competition.

2. Salary Threshold Increases (Effective July 1, 2026)

To keep pace with local wage growth, the government has increased the minimum salary requirements for employer-sponsored visas. These apply to new nominations lodged on or after July 1, 2026.

• Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT): Increasing from $76,515 to $79,499. (Applies to Skills in Demand 482 and Employer Nomination Scheme 186 visas).
• Specialist Skills Income Threshold (SSIT): Increasing from $141,210 to $146,717.

Note: Employers must also pay the Annual Market Salary Rate (AMSR). If the market rate is higher than the threshold, you must be paid the market rate.

3. The Points Test Reform

The points test—the mechanism for most skilled independent visas—is undergoing its first major refinement since 2012. While details are being finalized, the government has signaled that the new system will be optimized to favor:

• Younger applicants.
• Highly educated individuals.
• High-skilled workers with experience in priority sectors (Health, ICT, Engineering, Science, Construction, and Education).

4. Trades and Skills Assessment Modernization

The government is investing $75.1 million over four years to modernize Trades Recognition Australia (TRA).

• Streamlined Assessment: New pilot programs are being launched to create "assessment-to-licensing" pathways for electricians and plumbers.
• Onshore Focus: A new program will allow onshore visa holders to have their qualifications, trade skills, and practical experience assessed more efficiently, with the goal of adding 4,000 skilled trade workers to the workforce annually.

5. Integrity, Compliance, and Other Updates

• Working Holiday Maker (WHM) Program: The government is expanding the use of randomized ballot systems to manage demand from specific countries and ensure fairer visa allocation.
• Increased Scrutiny: With $19.8 million in new funding, student visa processing (both onshore and offshore) will face tighter oversight.
• Legislative Power: New powers have been granted for visa refusal and cancellation, with a stricter focus on character requirements and preventing misuse of the Protection Visa system.
• Employer Responsibilities: Employers sponsoring migrants face increased scrutiny under the Fair Work Act. Administrative errors are being treated with "less tolerance" than in previous years.

Summary Checklist for Applicants

1. If you are Onshore: You are currently in the preferred demographic. Focus on aligning your career with priority sectors (Construction, Health, Tech) and securing an employer sponsor if possible.
2. If you are Offshore: Competition is intensifying. Ensure your skills are "highly skilled" and directly address Australia's long-term productivity needs.
3. For Employers: Review current employee salaries immediately. If you have pending nominations, lodge them before July 1 to avoid the new salary thresholds.

Disclaimer: Migration policies are subject to change. This summary is for informational purposes and should not be considered legal advice. Always consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent for advice specific to your circumstances.