The Biggest Shake-Up to Skilled Migration in a Decade
Australia’s points test has not had a major overhaul since it was introduced, but that could change from July 2026. The Department of Home Affairs is actively reviewing proposals that would fundamentally change how skilled migrants are ranked and invited for permanent residency.
If you are planning to apply for a 189, 190, or 491 visa, these proposed changes could significantly affect your chances. Here is what we know so far and how to prepare.
What Is Being Proposed?
The Review of the Points Test discussion paper published by Home Affairs outlines several major shifts. While nothing is legislated yet, these proposals have serious momentum behind them.
1. Age Points Could Be Redistributed
Currently, applicants aged 25 to 32 get the maximum 30 age points. The proposed reform would adjust this weighting, potentially giving more points to younger applicants who will contribute to the workforce for longer. If you are in your late 30s or 40s, this could reduce your competitiveness.
2. Australian Study Bonus May Disappear
This is the most controversial proposal. The current system awards 5 points for studying in Australia and 5 points for completing a Professional Year. Both of these bonuses could be removed entirely.
For international students who chose Australia specifically for the migration pathway, this is a major concern. It means your post-study work visa period becomes even more important for gaining real work experience rather than relying on study-based points.
3. Partner Skills Will Matter More
The current system awards up to 10 points for having a skilled, English-proficient partner. Under the proposed reform, this weighting would increase substantially. The logic is that a household with two skilled earners contributes more to the economy.
If your partner has a relevant skills assessment and strong English scores, this reform could give you a significant boost. If they do not, it might be worth investing in their qualifications now.
4. Income-Based Points Could Be Introduced
For the first time, earning a high salary in Australia could directly contribute to your points score. Applicants earning above the Specialist Skills Income Threshold (currently $141,210) may receive additional points.
This shift rewards people who are already contributing to the economy through employment, rather than just having qualifications on paper. It aligns with the government’s broader push toward demand-driven migration.
5. Minimum Points Score May Rise to 70
The current minimum to lodge an Expression of Interest is 65 points. There are discussions about raising this to 70 points from July 2026. In practice, most successful applicants already score well above 65, with competitive invitations typically going to those with 85 to 100+ points. But raising the floor would filter out more applicants from the system entirely.
How Does the Current Points Test Work?
If you are new to the Australian points test, here is a quick summary. Points are awarded across several categories including age, English proficiency, work experience, qualifications, and nomination status. You submit an Expression of Interest through SkillSelect, and invitations are issued to the highest-scoring candidates in regular rounds.
The key categories and maximum points currently available:
- Age: Up to 30 points (25-32 years old)
- English: Up to 20 points (Superior English)
- Work experience: Up to 20 points (8+ years overseas or Australian)
- Qualifications: Up to 20 points (doctorate)
- State nomination (190): 5 points
- Regional nomination (491): 15 points
How to Prepare Right Now
Whether or not these reforms go ahead in July 2026, the direction is clear. Australia wants skilled migrants who are already working, earning well, and filling genuine workforce gaps. Here is what you can do now:
- Improve your English score. Superior English (20 points) is the single biggest points booster and is unlikely to be devalued in any reform.
- Get your skills assessment done. If you have not started this process, do it now. Processing times vary by assessing authority.
- Consider state nomination. The 190 visa and 491 visa offer additional points that can make the difference in a competitive field.
- Focus on employment. If income-based points are introduced, having an Australian job at a strong salary will matter more than ever.
- Lodge your EOI early. If you currently meet the 65-point threshold, consider lodging before any minimum score increase takes effect.
When Will We Know for Sure?
The government has not committed to a specific date for announcing the final reform package. The July 2026 timeline is based on the typical financial year cycle for migration program changes. We expect more detail in the lead-up to the 2026-27 Federal Budget.
We will update this article as new information becomes available. In the meantime, if you want to understand how these potential changes affect your specific situation, our migration lawyers can assess your points score and recommend the strongest pathway forward.
Book a consultation to get ahead of the changes.
