30/05/2026
π¨ AUSTRALIA PR JUST CHANGED β Here's what you actually need to know.
The 2026 Federal Budget is out, and migration is shifting. Before you panic (or celebrate), let's break down what's real and what's still rumour.
β
CONFIRMED:
βοΈ PR program stays at 185,000 places
βοΈ 70%+ going to skilled migrants
βοΈ Points test reform β direction set
βοΈ Onshore applicants getting priority
βοΈ $85.2M invested in skills assessments & licensing
βοΈ Faster trade skills recognition
βοΈ Stronger student visa checks & anti-fraud measures
π POINTS TEST β WHAT MAY CHANGE:
β Higher education weighted more
β Stronger English = bigger advantage
β Younger applicants prioritised
β Economic contribution factored in more heavily
β οΈ The exact points structure is NOT finalised yet.
β NOT CONFIRMED (still being discussed):
βοΈ 70-point minimum requirement
βοΈ Removing Australian study points
βοΈ Removing Professional Year points
βοΈ Salary-based PR points
βοΈ Major 189 visa overhaul
π BOTTOM LINE:
Skilled migration still dominates. If you're in healthcare, tech, or engineering β this budget is working in your favour. But with reforms on the horizon, the window to lodge under current rules may be narrowing.
Don't wait for the final announcement to start preparing.
π Book a free consultation today β 0469 736 195
π www.excelmigration.com.au
π Suite 7.05, Level 7, 365 Little Collins St, Melbourne
MARN: 1575980