As the 2024–25 financial year draws to a close, state and territory nomination programs are reaching their allocation limits, and many have already closed their doors to further nominations. For migrants pursuing the subclass 491 and 190 visas, understanding these changes is crucial for strategic planning.

Current Status of State and Territory Nomination Programs

As of 5 June 2025, the status of state and territory nomination programs for the Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) and Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) (subclass 491) visas is as follows:

Understanding Early Closures

State and territory nomination programs operate within allocated quotas set by the federal government. Once these allocations are filled, programs close to new applications to manage processing times and ensure quality assessments. High demand in certain occupations and regions can lead to faster exhaustion of quotas, resulting in early closures.

Looking Ahead: What to Expect in 2025–26

The upcoming 2025–26 program year will have new allocations, and each state and territory will need to plan around the allocations to make best use. While specific allocations for each state and territory are yet to be announced, programs will reopen progressively from July 2025, with some states potentially delaying until as late as September. States and territories may release new occupation lists to meet their demands and priorities based on the allocations they are given. Their specific criteria may also be adjusted to attract candidates more likely to contribute to the workforce in the priority industry, such as requiring a job offer for the next 12 months.

Key trends to watch include:

• Regional Focus: Continued emphasis on regional migration to address skill shortages.
• Sector Prioritisation: Occupations in construction, education, healthcare, and technology may receive increased attention.
• Program Adjustments: States may revise their nomination criteria to align with local economic needs.

Visa Expiry: Immediate Steps to Consider

If your visa is approaching its expiry and you are waiting on a state or territory nomination, it is important to consider backup options. Our top tip to clients pursuing General Skilled Migration is to always have a Plan B, as invitations are never guaranteed. Being prepared with an alternative pathway can help avoid unnecessary visa complications and ensure you remain lawfully in Australia. We recommend considering the following:

• Alternative Visas: Consider other temporary visa options, such as Training and Skills in Demand visas, to lawfully extend your stay. If you’re exploring employer-sponsored options, have these conversations with your employer as early as possible. Preparing a sponsorship application can take time, and requirements such as Labour Market Testing can cause delays or limit eligibility. Avoid leaving it to the last minute, as timing can be critical.
• Consider Offshore Options: If you are in Australia and facing limited onshore visa options, and your visa expiry is fast approaching, it may be worth preparing for the possibility of continuing your migration journey from overseas. This could include building international work experience, securing employment in your nominated occupation overseas, or strengthening your qualifications. Offshore applicants are still eligible for state and territory nomination, subject to meeting the state or territory’s specific criteria. By positioning yourself strategically, you may still have a chance of receiving an invitation, even if it means stepping away temporarily.
• Seek Professional Advice: Consult with an experienced migration lawyer to assess your options and ensure compliance with immigration laws. Each state and territory has different criteria, occupation lists and priorities. We can help you navigate the options and identify the most suitable pathway.

Preparing for the New Program Year

To position yourself advantageously for the 2025–26 program year:

• Documentation: Ensure all necessary documents, including skills assessments and English language tests, are up to date. Keep note of the expiry date for your documents – you don’t want to be in a position where you receive an invitation after your documents have expired!
• Stay Informed: Regularly check official state and territory migration websites for updates on program reopenings and criteria changes. Some state and territories may not consider EOIs submitted in the previous program year.
• Strategic Planning: Align your skills and experience with the priorities of your desired state or territory to enhance your nomination prospects.

How Stone Group Lawyers Can Help

At Stone Group Lawyers, we take a considered and client-focused approach to General Skilled Migration (GSM). Our role is to help you understand the process, assess your suitability, and make informed decisions before committing to the pathway.

We begin with a tailored consultation where we assess your anticipated points score, evaluate your eligibility for each state and territory’s nomination program, and identify where you are most competitive. Each jurisdiction has its own occupation list, priorities and criteria, and these often shift throughout the program year. We stay across these changes so you don’t have to.

We also provide advice on alternative visa options if an invitation does not eventuate, ensuring you’re not left without a plan.

Too often, applicants underestimate the importance of the initial steps, such as maximising the value of the skills assessment or understanding when points can lawfully be claimed in an Expression of Interest. Errors at this stage can lead to refusals or even jeopardise future applications. We are here to make sure you’re set up for success from the outset.

Final Thoughts

While the closure of nomination programs can be disheartening, it’s a temporary phase in the migration cycle. Proactive preparation and staying informed are key to navigating these transitions successfully. Engage with migration professionals, monitor official state and territory websites, and be ready to act when opportunities arise in the new program year.