Regional Migration Just Got More Competitive
The Skilled Work Regional visa (subclass 491) has been one of the most popular pathways to Australian permanent residency, especially for applicants who struggle to reach the ultra-competitive scores needed for the 189 visa. But in 2026, the landscape has shifted. Fewer places, stricter state requirements, and higher point thresholds mean you need a smarter strategy.
Here is what the latest allocation data tells us and what you can do to improve your chances.
491 Allocation Has Been Cut
For the 2025-26 program year, the Department of Home Affairs reduced the 491 allocation to 7,500 places, down from 9,760 places in the previous year. That is a 23% reduction.
The overall permanent migration cap remains at 185,000 places, with 132,200 going to the skilled stream. But within that stream, the government is directing more places toward employer-sponsored visas and the 189/190 subclasses, leaving fewer seats for regional nominees.
State-by-State Breakdown
Not all states have been cut equally. Here is how the 491 places are distributed across states and territories:
- Western Australia: 2,200 places (largest allocation by far)
- South Australia: 900 places
- Queensland: 750 places
- Victoria: 700 places
- Tasmania: 650 places
- ACT, NSW, NT: Smaller allocations with targeted occupation lists
Western Australia stands out as the strongest option for 491 applicants in 2026. With 2,200 places, it has nearly triple the allocation of most other states. WA’s priority occupations align heavily with mining, construction, health, and trades.
What Points Score Do You Actually Need?
The minimum to lodge an Expression of Interest is still 65 points. But let’s be honest, 65 points will not get you invited in 2026. Real-world invitation data shows most successful 491 applicants need between 85 and 100+ points depending on their occupation and nominating state.
The 15 points from a 491 state nomination help, but you still need a strong base score. The points test rewards English proficiency (up to 20 points for Superior English), work experience, and age. If your base score before nomination is below 70, you will find it tough to compete.
Priority Occupations in 2026
States are becoming much more selective about which occupations they nominate. The broad trend across all states is a focus on:
- Healthcare: Nurses, doctors, allied health professionals, aged care workers
- Education: Early childhood teachers, secondary teachers, special education
- Trades: Electricians, plumbers, carpenters, mechanics, welders
- Engineering: Civil, mechanical, electrical, mining engineers
- IT: Software engineers, cybersecurity analysts (though more limited than previous years)
If your occupation falls outside these priority areas, your chances of state nomination are significantly lower in 2026. Check the specific state nomination lists before investing time and money in an application.
The Pathway to Permanent Residency
One of the biggest advantages of the 491 visa is the pathway to the permanent subclass 191 visa. After living, working, and earning a minimum taxable income in a designated regional area for three years, you can apply for permanent residency.
The income requirement is currently around $53,900 per year. For most professionals in regional areas, this threshold is achievable, though it can be tighter for some occupations in lower-paying industries.
How to Strengthen Your 491 Application
- Target WA or SA. These states have the most places and the broadest occupation lists.
- Improve your English. Going from Proficient to Superior English adds 10 points. That single improvement can be the difference between an invitation and sitting in the queue.
- Get experience in a regional area. Some states prioritise applicants already living and working in their region.
- Apply for 190 nomination as well. Many states assess both 190 and 491 applications from the same pool. You might get a 190 offer instead, which is a direct permanent visa.
- Check DAMA options. If your occupation qualifies under a Designated Area Migration Agreement, you may access concessions on salary thresholds and skills requirements.
Is the 491 Still Worth It?
Absolutely. Despite the reduced allocation, the 491 remains one of the most accessible pathways to permanent residency in Australia. The 15 nomination points give a significant advantage, regional areas often have lower living costs, and the pathway to the 191 visa is well established.
The key is to be strategic. Do not just apply for the first state you find. Research which states need your occupation, where you can realistically live and work for three years, and which pathway gives you the best overall chance.
Our migration lawyers can assess your points score, identify the strongest nominating states for your occupation, and help you put together a competitive application.
Book a consultation to map out your regional migration strategy.
