ACT Skilled Migration 2026-27 Program Key Updates

The ACT Government has recently announced several significant developments affecting the skilled migration program for the upcoming 2026-27 migration year. Here is a summary of the key changes you need to know:

Updated ACT Nomination Guidelines

The ACT Government has updated its nomination guidelines for both Overseas applicants and Canberra residents. While the core substance of the program remains the same, several procedural changes and clarifications have been introduced:

The total nomination cost is now $350 (exclusive of GST). This is split into a $25 fee for a Canberra Matrix submission and a $325 fee for the nomination application.
Canberra Matrix submissions are valid for six (6) months but can be extended to 12 months if updated before expiry. While edits are free, an edited Matrix is treated as a new submission for ranking purposes (tied scores are ranked by the date last updated).
A new framework allows for expedited nomination processing in urgent circumstances (e.g., imminent visa expiry, document expiry, or critical age milestones). This only applies after an invitation has been issued. Personal circumstances do not affect the initial Matrix ranking or invitation rounds.
The ACT government has clarified the points criteria for the definition of 'trade certificate' for Matrix point claims, and the 'Years of study at an ACT tertiary institution' category now explicitly requires that the study be at a tertiary level to claim points.

2026-27 ACT Allocations & Occupation List

The ACT's final allocation for the 2026-27 program year is currently being negotiated with the Australian Government. The figures and a tentative invitation schedule will be published once confirmed.
A review of the ACT Occupation List is in its final stages. An updated list is expected in the coming weeks and will remain broadly aligned with the ACT's local labour market needs.

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How Can Agape Henry Crux Help

State nominations are technical and change frequently. If you need help determining the best visa pathway for your circumstances, reach out to speak with one of our immigration lawyers for professional advice and guidance. At Agape Henry Crux, our team of immigration lawyers work together with our Accredited Specialists in Immigration Law, who specialise in handling highly complex matters. You can book a consultation with one of our lawyers to seek professional advice by calling 02-8310 5230 or emailing us at info@ahclawyers.com.

We speak fluent English and Mandarin. If this isn’t your language, we can also help you arrange an interpreter.

Our founder and principal lawyer, Jason Ling, is recognised in the 2026 edition of The Best Lawyers in Australia™ and the 2027 edition of The Best Lawyers in Australia™. Agape Henry Crux is named as Best Immigration Law Firm 2025 - Sydney by APAC Insider Awards.

This article/presentation (“publication”) does not deal extensively with important topics or changes in law and is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances. If you find this publication of interest and would like to know more or wish to obtain legal advice relevant to your circumstances, please contact our office.

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