Australia's state nomination programs have been shifting their focus and activity levels dramatically over the past year. Some states are opening their doors wide while others have pulled back, making it more important than ever to understand where the opportunities actually exist.
Current Activity Levels by State
Victoria remains one of the most active states, though they've become more selective. They're processing nominations quickly and have maintained regular invitation rounds throughout 2024. Victoria continues to welcome a broad range of occupations but shows clear preference for healthcare workers and engineers.
South Australia has ramped up significantly, becoming one of the most accessible pathways for skilled migrants. They've increased their nomination allocation and are actively seeking migrants across multiple occupation lists. Processing times have improved to around 6-8 weeks.
Western Australia is experiencing high demand due to their strong economy, particularly in mining and construction. They're being selective but remain active, with monthly invitation rounds for most occupation categories.
Queensland has maintained steady activity but introduced stricter requirements around job offers and regional commitments. They're particularly focused on attracting migrants willing to work outside Brisbane.
New South Wales has scaled back considerably from their historically high nomination numbers. They're now highly selective, prioritizing occupations in critical shortage and candidates with strong ties to the state.
Tasmania continues their active approach, especially for migrants willing to commit to staying in the state for at least three years. They've streamlined their process and are processing most applications within 10 weeks.
Northern Territory remains small but accessible, with quick processing times and lower competition. They're particularly welcoming to candidates in trades and healthcare.
ACT has reduced their activity compared to previous years, becoming more selective about candidates and requiring stronger connections to Canberra.
Priority Occupations Right Now
Different states are targeting different skills shortages, but some clear patterns have emerged:
Healthcare and Social Work
Every state is prioritizing:
- Registered Nurses (all specializations)
- Social Workers
- Psychologists
- Physiotherapists
- Occupational Therapists
Engineering and IT
High demand exists for:
- Software Engineers
- Civil Engineers
- Mechanical Engineers
- Cybersecurity Specialists
- Data Analysts
Trades and Construction
Particularly strong in WA, SA, and NT:
- Electricians
- Plumbers
- Carpenters
- Metal Fabricators
- Crane Operators
Education
Consistent demand across most states:
- Secondary School Teachers (especially Maths and Science)
- Early Childhood Teachers
- Special Education Teachers
What Changed in 2024
The biggest shift has been the move away from "first come, first served" systems toward more competitive, points-based selections. States are now ranking candidates and only inviting the highest scorers.
New Requirements:
- Most states now prefer or require job offers
- Stronger English language requirements (many want 7+ in IELTS)
- Evidence of genuine commitment to the state
- Some states introduced minimum work experience thresholds
Processing Changes: States have improved their processing times overall, but they're being much more thorough in their assessments. Expect more requests for additional documentation.
How to Choose the Right State
Your choice shouldn't just be about which state will nominate you fastest. Consider these factors:
Match Your Occupation
Check each state's current occupation lists, but also look at their priority matrix or points systems. Some states give bonus points for certain occupations even if they're not on priority lists.
Consider Requirements You Can Meet
If you don't have a job offer, focus on states that don't require one. If your English is at competent level, avoid states pushing for proficient or superior levels.
Think About Long-term Settlement
States are increasingly checking whether people actually settle where they're nominated. Choose somewhere you genuinely want to live and work for at least 2-3 years.
Regional Opportunities
Many states offer easier pathways if you're willing to work in regional areas. This can be an excellent strategy if you're flexible about location.
Timeline and Application Strategy
Current Processing Times:
- SA, NT, Tasmania: 6-10 weeks
- Victoria, WA: 8-12 weeks
- Queensland, NSW: 10-16 weeks
- ACT: 12-20 weeks
Best Strategy for 2024:
- Apply to multiple states where you're eligible, but tailor each application
- Get your documents ready first - don't wait until after you're invited
- Consider regional pathways as backup options
- Monitor invitation rounds - most states publish data on minimum scores
Who's Most Affected by Recent Changes
Winners:
- Healthcare workers with job offers
- Engineers with regional work willingness
- Candidates with superior English
- People with Australian study or work experience
Facing Challenges:
- Candidates relying solely on points without job offers
- Occupations that were previously in high demand but aren't priority now
- People with minimum English requirements
- Candidates without clear state connections
Practical Next Steps
If you're planning a state nomination application:
Before You Apply:
- Check the latest occupation lists (they change quarterly)
- Calculate your points under each state's system
- Research job markets in your target states
- Network with employers and professional associations
Application Tips:
- Address selection criteria directly
- Provide evidence of your research into the state
- Show genuine commitment through property research, job applications, or networking
- Include any family or friend connections
After Submission:
- Don't wait - start preparing your visa application documents
- Continue job searching and networking
- Monitor processing times and any program changes
Key Takeaways
- South Australia, Victoria, and Tasmania currently offer the most accessible pathways for skilled migrants
- Healthcare workers and engineers have the best opportunities across all states right now
- Job offers and superior English skills have become much more important for competitive applications
- Choose your target state based on long-term settlement goals, not just nomination likelihood
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Important: Australian.com provides general information only and does not constitute migration advice. Only a registered migration agent (MARA) or Australian legal practitioner can provide immigration advice. Information is current as of the date published but immigration law changes frequently. Verify all details with the Department of Home Affairs.