279
Occupations on ACT list
12 Oct 2026
Last round
190: <5 · 491: <5
Nominated 1 Jul – 30 Sep
185 overseas · 195 resident
Matrix maximum
Status
Last round 12 Oct 2026: Minimum Matrix score ranked per ANZSCO unit group; 491 not considered in this round (190 only). Some cut-offs also had a submission date tie-break. Schedule 2026-27: Week starting 12 October 2026 (Subclass 190 only); Week starting 25 January 2027; Week starting 22 March 2027; Week starting 24 May 2027.
How people are chosen
Australian Capital Territory uses: Canberra Matrix, ranked within unit group. Highest Matrix score within each occupation unit group is invited; ties go to the earlier submission.
- Meet Home Affairs criteria with valid English test and skills assessment at Matrix submission and nomination
- Pathway: occupation on ACT list, or Doctorate Streamlined, or Small Business Owner
- Lived in Canberra (or within 30 min commute in NSW) for 6+ months at Matrix submission
- Worked in Canberra 30+ hrs/week in at least 26 of the 30 weeks before submission (self-employed: $1,175+/week taxable for 26 weeks and 12 months ACT ABN activity)
- Proficient or Superior English unless Chef or skill level 3-5
- Commit to live and work in Canberra 2 years from grant
- Meet Home Affairs criteria with valid English and skills assessment
- Occupation on ACT list (or ACT doctorate in last 2 years)
- At least 3 years full-time post-graduate work experience in nominated occupation in last 5 years, assessed as relevant
- Employment statement showing ACT labour market research
- Proficient or Superior English unless Chef or skill level 3-5
- Living overseas, not lived in Australia in the last year, no current Australian visa other than visitor
- Commitment statement and settlement funds
- Canberra Matrix www.act.gov.au/migration/skilled-migrants/canberra-matrix
- 190 criteria www.act.gov.au/migration/skilled-migrants/190-nomination-criteria
- 491 criteria www.act.gov.au/migration/skilled-migrants/491-nomination-criteria
- Invitation rounds www.act.gov.au/migration/resources/canberra-matrix-invitation-round
General information only, not migration advice. Rules can change at any time; always check the official source.
Want advice on your own case?
Talk to our registered migration agents (MARN 2518931, 2619448) in Glenroy, Parramatta or online.
General information only. This is not migration advice for your circumstances. Rules change, so always check the official source or speak with a Registered Migration Agent (MARN 2518931, MARN 2619448).
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