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Australia’s 2026–27 Migration Program will include a significant reduction in regional migration places, with the combined allocation for Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional and Subclass 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visas falling to 14,110 places.
The reduction represents a decline of approximately 57% compared with previous program settings and is one of the largest changes to Australia’s regional migration program since these pathways were introduced.
Regional Allocation Reduced to 14,110 Places
The new allocation applies across regional migration pathways administered by states, territories and regional employers.
While detailed state-by-state allocations have not yet been published, the lower national ceiling means fewer invitations and nomination opportunities are expected during the 2026–27 program year.
Many migration professionals anticipate increased competition for regional invitations as applicants compete for a substantially smaller number of available places.
Migration Program Priorities Shift
The reduction in regional places comes alongside increased allocations in other skilled migration categories.
For 2026–27, the Federal Government has allocated:
| Visa Category | Allocation |
|---|---|
| Employer Sponsored Visas | 58,040 |
| Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) | 21,090 |
| Regional Visas (491 & 494 Combined) | 14,110 |
The figures indicate a stronger emphasis on employer-sponsored migration and independent skilled migration compared with previous years.
State Nomination Programs Expected to Tighten
Although individual state and territory programs are still expected to operate during 2026–27, many are likely to face increased demand relative to the number of available nomination places.
Several jurisdictions have already signalled stricter nomination requirements in recent years, including:
- Higher points requirements.
- Stronger evidence of regional commitment.
- Occupation-specific prioritisation.
- Additional residency or employment requirements.
Updated state nomination criteria are expected to be released progressively as the new program year begins.
Increased Interest in Alternative Skilled Pathways
The changes are likely to place greater attention on other skilled migration options.
The expanded allocation for Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visas may provide additional opportunities for high-scoring applicants, while employer-sponsored pathways continue to receive substantial support under the 2026–27 migration program.
At the same time, existing holders of Subclass 491 visas remain eligible to pursue permanent residency through established pathways, subject to meeting relevant requirements.
What Happens Next?
The 2026–27 migration program officially begins on 1 July 2026.
Applicants awaiting invitations or considering regional migration pathways should monitor announcements from state and territory governments as individual nomination allocations and program criteria become available.
Further updates are expected over the coming weeks as jurisdictions publish their 2026–27 nomination settings and invitation schedules.
Key Numbers
| Item | 2026–27 Allocation |
|---|---|
| Regional Visas (491 & 494) | 14,110 |
| Employer Sponsored Visas | 58,040 |
| Skilled Independent (189) | 21,090 |
| Reduction in Regional Places | 57% |
The changes represent one of the most significant shifts in Australia’s skilled migration program for 2026–27 and will likely influence how prospective migrants approach regional and skilled visa pathways in the years ahead.
