The federal government proposes to reduce Western Australia’s skilled migration allocation by 30%. The change could restrict access to overseas talent, slow housing and infrastructure delivery, and intensify workforce shortages for employers across key industries.

Over 2,000 skilled builders and tradespeople have joined Western Australia’s construction industry through the Build a Life and Construction Visa Subsidy initiatives, helping employers strengthen their workforce and meet housing demand.

Higher-education graduates who studied and lived in Hobart or nearby postcodes can now apply for a two-year Second Post-Higher Education Work (Subclass 485) visa, up from one year.

From 13 September 2025, major English language test changes for Subclass 482 visas expand test options, allow single-skill retakes, and introduce clearer exemptions.

The Australian Government’s new trade agreement with the United Arab Emirates, the CEPA, has been formally integrated into migration law, expanding Labour Market Testing exemptions and creating new opportunities for employer-sponsored nominations.

The Australian Government has locked in the 2025–26 Permanent Migration Program at 185,000 places, maintaining skilled migration as the core priority. Businesses can continue workforce planning with confidence and clarity.

Consultations on the Core Skills Occupation List (CSOL) have officially opened, shaping future access to 482 and 186 visas. Employers are encouraged to submit evidence-backed input before 26 September 2025

From 7 August 2025, Australia updated English language test score requirements and expanded approved providers for various visa subclasses, with transitional provisions for earlier tests.

Australian ballot registrations are now open for the Pacific Engagement visa from 28 July to 25 August 2025. With 3,000 permanent visas available, eligible Pacific and Timor-Leste nationals can apply for long-term settlement in Australia.

Since 2009, the Government has invested in data-matching between Home Affairs and the ATO to monitor skilled visa employer compliance. In 2024–25, $1.9 million was allocated to support ongoing monitoring efforts.

The Cook Government is investing $37.5 million to expand WA’s construction workforce through new apprenticeship subsidies and extended incentives to attract skilled workers from interstate and overseas.

As of 1 July 2025, key changes have taken effect, including higher skilled visa income thresholds, increased superannuation, and updated fees for visas, citizenship, and tribunals.