The Australian Government has announced its permanent migration programme for 2026/27, maintaining a total cap of 185,000 places. The allocation preserves the 70:30 ratio between skilled migrants and family stream applicants, consistent with the previous year.
Of the total, 129,590 places are designated for migrants already residing in Australia, while 55,110 offshore spots will be available for highly skilled workers from abroad. These offshore positions aim to fill long-term workforce gaps and enhance national productivity.
Priority Skilled Occupations for Offshore Migrants
The government has highlighted several priority occupations eligible for offshore applicants, including Kenyans and Africans seeking work visas. The key sectors and roles include:
- Healthcare: General practitioners, surgeons, cardiologists, psychiatrists, dermatologists, neurologists, obstetricians, gynaecologists, oncologists, registered nurses specialising in aged care, critical care, mental health, paediatrics, surgical settings, nurse practitioners, and midwives.
- Engineering and Sciences: Aeronautical, civil, electrical, mechanical, mining, and structural engineers; biochemists, biotechnologists, marine biologists, and meteorologists.
- Education: Early childhood teachers, secondary school teachers, special needs teachers, and child care centre managers.
- Professional Services: Accountants, management accountants, external auditors, architects, landscape architects, and social workers.
- Trades, Construction, and Hospitality: Various skilled roles within these sectors.
Updated Salary Thresholds
Effective July 1, 2026, Australia's Department of Home Affairs will raise minimum salary requirements for employer-sponsored skilled visas by 3.8%, reflecting increases in average weekly earnings. These changes apply only to new visa nominations and do not affect current visa holders or applications lodged before the deadline.
