05/08/2026
Skilled visa processing priorities have changed — here’s what to know.
The Department of Home Affairs has introduced Ministerial Direction No. 119, which replaces Direction 105 and sets a new priority framework for a range of skilled visa and employer-sponsored applications.
In short, applications linked to Australia’s strategic workforce needs are likely to receive priority — particularly in areas such as defence, law enforcement, healthcare, teaching and construction.
Onshore applicants also appear to have an advantage, with applicants already in Australia generally prioritised ahead of offshore applicants within the same priority category.
What’s interesting is what is not specifically prioritised: accredited sponsor nominations, regional-based positions, high salary thresholds and Specialist Streams outside the identified priority occupations.
For employers and applicants, this is a good reminder to look closely at the occupation, visa subclass and whether the applicant is onshore or offshore.
Direction 119 may affect processing expectations, but it is still too early to know how significant the impact will be. If your occupation is on the priority list, now is the time to make sure your application is decision-ready.
The priority occupation list is available here: Ministerial Direction No. 119.
