Australia’s Migration Program 2026–27: What skilled migrants need to know

Australia has confirmed its 2026–27 Migration Program, maintaining the permanent intake at 185,000 places and reinforcing its commitment to skilled migration. The latest planning levels indicate a more targeted, employer-focused approach designed to address workforce shortages and support long-term economic growth.

Skilled migration remains the priority

Around 70% of migration places are allocated to the Skilled Work stream, with more than 132,000 places dedicated to skilled workers. Australia continues to face labour shortages in sectors including:

• Healthcare and aged care
• Construction and infrastructure
• Engineering
• Information technology
• Education
• Trades and manufacturing

For professionals from South Africa and the UK, Australia remains an attractive destination due to strong employment prospects, competitive salaries, high living standards, and clear pathways to permanent residency.

Employer sponsorship is becoming more important

One of the most significant changes is the increased focus on employer-sponsored visas. Australia is shifting toward a migration system more closely aligned with labour market demand, making employer sponsorship a key pathway for many skilled migrants.

This approach aims to:

• Fill workforce shortages more quickly
• Improve productivity
• Reduce skills mismatches
• Support industries struggling to recruit locally

For applicants in high-demand occupations, securing employer sponsorship may offer the strongest route to migration and permanent residency.

Regional migration becomes more selective

While regional migration remains available, allocations have been reduced compared to previous years. Regional areas still need workers, particularly in healthcare, agriculture, hospitality, and trades, but applicants should carefully assess:

• Occupation demand
• State nomination opportunities
• Employer sponsorship options
• Regional visa obligations

The change suggests a move toward more streamlined and sustainable migration pathways.

Greater focus on onshore applicants

Australia is increasingly prioritising applicants already living and working in the country on temporary visas, including skilled workers, graduates, and regional visa holders. This helps retain talent already contributing to the economy and supports smoother transitions to permanent residency.

However, offshore applicants remain competitive, particularly those with strong qualifications, relevant experience, and sponsorship opportunities in shortage occupations.

What it means for professionals

Applicants from around the world continue to benefit from:

• English-language proficiency
• Comparable qualifications
• Strong alignment with Australian workplace culture
• Experience in high-demand occupations

Professionals are particularly sought after in healthcare, engineering, construction, mining, IT and skilled trades. Competition is increasing, making early planning and strategic positioning more important than ever.

For skilled professionals considering Australia, opportunities remain strong – especially in sectors facing ongoing labour shortages. Success will increasingly depend on preparation, employer connections, and aligning with Australia’s workforce needs.

If you are considering a move to Australia, speak to our MARA-registered migration agents. Contact us at [email protected] or call +61 (0) 3 8651 4500/+44 (0) 20 7759 5307 to discuss your options.