22/09/2026
Australia Migration Update | Ministerial Direction 122
The Department of Home Affairs has introduced Ministerial Direction 122 (MD 122), which changes the processing priority for certain skilled permanent and provisional visa applications from 19 September 2026.
The visas covered include 186, 187, 189, 190, 191, 489, 491, 494, 887 and 888.
Priority is given to applications connected with key sectors such as:
โข Construction
โข Healthcare
โข Teaching
โข Agriculture
โข Aquaculture and Fishing
โข Resources
โข Certain law enforcement and defence interests
For other applications, priority generally depends on whether the applicant was in Australia or outside Australia when the application was lodged, along with the other priorities set out in MD 122.
Important: Processing priority does not change the visa requirements, guarantee faster processing, or guarantee a visa grant.
If you have a skilled visa application and are unsure how these changes may affect you, speak with a Registered Migration Agent for advice based on your circumstances.
Sharma Education and Migration Services
MARN 2318117 , Contact 0433 338 519
9/483 High Street Penrith NSW Australia
[email protected]