#australiamigration

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For many skilled professionals planning to migrate, choosing the right Australian state can be just as important as selecting the right visa pathway. Each state and territory has its own workforce needs and nomination priorities, which means opportunities can vary depending on your occupation, experience, and qualifications.

As Australia continues to address skill shortages across key industries, state nomination programs remain an important pathway for skilled migrants seeking permanent residency. Understanding where the demand is strongest can help applicants make informed decisions and improve their chances of receiving an invitation.

What Is State Nomination?

State nomination allows Australian states and territories to nominate skilled workers whose occupations match local workforce needs. Nomination is available through:

Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)

A state nomination can significantly increase your chances of receiving a visa invitation.

What Are the Key Trends for 2026–2027?

Several important trends are shaping Australia's skilled migration landscape.

Strong Demand for Essential Occupations

Australian employers continue to face workforce shortages in several industries. As a result, states are prioritising occupations such as:

Healthcare Professionals

Registered Nurses

Teachers

Engineers

IT Specialists

Construction Professionals

Skilled Trades Workers

Applicants in these occupations are likely to see strong demand throughout 2026–2027

Greater Focus on Regional Australia

Regional migration remains a major priority. Many states are actively encouraging skilled migrants to settle in regional areas through Subclass 491 pathways. These regions offer strong employment opportunities, lifestyle benefits, and potential pathways to permanent residency.

Increased Competition

As more migrants look to Australia for career opportunities and long-term settlement, competition for state nomination is becoming stronger. Applicants with higher points scores, strong English language results, and relevant work experience are generally more competitive.

Regular Updates to Occupation Lists

States continue to review and update their occupation lists based on labour market needs. Migrants should regularly monitor these updates to identify opportunities relevant to their profession.

Which States Are Offering the Best Opportunities?

Victoria

Victoria remains one of Australia's most attractive destinations for skilled migrants. The state continues to show strong demand for healthcare workers, teachers, engineers, and technology professionals.

While Victoria offers significant nomination opportunities, it is also one of the most competitive states due to the large number of applicants.

New South Wales

As Australia's largest economy, New South Wales continues to provide opportunities across a wide range of industries. Healthcare, engineering, construction, education, and information technology remain key sectors.

Candidates with strong profiles and competitive points scores are often well-positioned for NSW invitation rounds.

Western Australia

Western Australia continues to stand out as one of the most migrant-friendly destinations. Ongoing demand across mining, engineering, construction, healthcare, and hospitality sectors is creating opportunities for skilled professionals.

Many migrants are also attracted to Perth's lifestyle and relatively affordable cost of living compared to Sydney and Melbourne.

Queensland

Queensland's growing population and major infrastructure projects continue to drive demand for skilled workers. Opportunities remain strong in healthcare, construction, engineering, education, and trades occupations.

Regional Queensland is also becoming increasingly attractive for skilled migrants seeking nomination pathways.

South Australia

South Australia remains a popular choice for migrants looking for alternative nomination pathways. The state continues to focus on occupations facing skill shortages while offering a high quality of life and affordable living costs.

Tasmania

Tasmania's targeted migration strategy continues to create opportunities for skilled workers willing to settle in regional Australia. Healthcare, hospitality, education, and construction occupations remain important to the state's economy.

Northern Territory and ACT

Although nomination allocations are smaller, both jurisdictions offer valuable opportunities for eligible candidates. The Northern Territory continues to address workforce shortages across key industries, while the ACT focuses on occupations aligned with Canberra's labour market needs.

Which State Is Best for Your Occupation?

Healthcare Professionals: Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia

IT Professionals: Victoria, NSW, ACT

Engineers: Western Australia, Queensland, NSW

Teachers: Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania

Trades Workers: Western Australia, Queensland, South Australia

The best state will depend on your occupation, points score, work experience, and long-term settlement goals.

How Can Skilled Migrants Improve Their Chances?

If you are planning to apply for state nomination in 2026–2027, consider the following:

Aim for the highest possible points score.

Achieve strong English language test results.

Keep skills assessments and qualifications up to date.

Gain relevant skilled work experience.

Explore regional migration opportunities.

Stay informed about state nomination updates and occupation lists.

Seek professional advice to identify the most suitable pathway.

If you're planning your Australian migration journey, professional guidance can help you understand your eligibility and identify the most suitable pathway. With over 35,000 successful migration journeys and support from Registered MARA Agents, AIVES Australia can help you make informed decisions and navigate the process with confidence. Contact our team today to explore your options.

Final Thoughts

Australia's skilled migration program continues to offer excellent opportunities for qualified professionals in 2026–2027. Victoria, New South Wales, Western Australia, and Queensland remain leading destinations, while South Australia, Tasmania, the Northern Territory, and the ACT provide valuable alternatives for eligible applicants.

As workforce demands evolve, skilled migrants who align their qualifications and experience with state priorities will be in the strongest position to secure a nomination. Understanding current state nomination trends and preparing a competitive application can make a significant difference in achieving your Australian migration goals.

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