September 16, 2022
Australia announces 160,000 vacancies for immigration
by Arunachalam
Australia Announces 160,000 Vacancies for Immigration
The 2022-23 Migration Program has been released by the Australian government’s Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs.
Australia’s economic recovery is still slow and fragmented, reeling from Pandemic woes, and this Migration Program takes into account 160,000 vacancies for immigration that will boost the revival of the economy and address the skills shortage in the country.
The proposed program is expected to enhance and drive social cohesion outcomes in the post-pandemic environment.
Official documents show that there will be a planning level of 160,000 places, which are slated to be distributed as below:-
Skill (109,900 places)
The skill stream will improve the productive capacity of the economy, by filling skill shortages in the labour market, including those in regional Australia.
Family (50,000 places)
Mostly comprised of Partner visas, this stream will enable Australians to reunite with family members from overseas. These family members will be given pathways to citizenship.
Starting 2022-23, Partner visas will be granted on a demand-driven basis, reducing Partner visa pipeline and processing times for many applicants, and facilitating family reunification.
The Government has an estimated 3000 Child visas for 2022-23 for planning purposes. This category is demand-driven and not subject to a ceiling.
Special Eligibility (100 places)
The Special Eligibility stream includes visas for those in special circumstances, such as permanent residents returning to Australia after a period overseas.
It is left to the Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs to redistribute the places between Skill stream visa categories on an ongoing basis to address any changing economic conditions as they may occur.
State-nominated visas
It was earlier announced by Australia’s states and territories that they will be easing certain terms for visa applications, in order to tackle issues related to the shortage of skilled migrants. As a rule, migrants are sponsored by employers for a visa to stay in the country. However, there are times when state and territory authorities can also nominate skilled workers for visas under the State Nominated Migration Program. Of late, some of the terms and conditions that are required to obtain state-sponsored visas have been relaxed.
Now, individuals holding state-sponsored visas don’t have to be tied to a particular employer. There is, however, an age criterion—the individual has to be aged below 45 to be nominated. Additionally, there is no job guarantee, so they have to find their own position.
State and Territory nominated visa- Categories
​​Nomination allocations are made available to States and Territories in the following visa categories, in the 2022-23 Migration Program:
–Skilled – Nominated (subclass 190)
–Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) (subclass 491)
–Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP)
Note that the States and Territories individually assess eligible applicants against criteria unique to their jurisdiction.
The table below indicates available positions.
| State | Skilled Nominated (Subclass 190) Visa | Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) (subclass 491) | Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP) |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACT | 800 | 1,920 | 10 |
| NSW | 7,160 | 4,870 | 260 |
| NT | 600 | 840 | 15 |
| QLD | 3,000 | 1,200 | 235 |
| SA | 2,700 | 3,180 | 70 |
| TAS | 2,700 | 1,350 | 10 |
| VIC | 9,000 | 2,400 | 170 |
| WA | 5,350 | 2,790 | 40 |
| Total | 30,610 | 18,550 | 810 |
For a free evaluation of your eligibility and to explore immigration pathways that are suited to your present situation, visit MWT Education Consultancy. We’ll help you to achieve your overseas dreams!
Written by
Arunachalam
ENQUIRE NOW
May 26, 2026
Nurses Stepping into International Nursing
Becoming an internationally registered nurse is a major achievement, but succeeding within a global healthcare system requires far more than clinical ability alone. This blog explores how communication, workplace etiquette, adaptability, teamwork, and professional conduct shape the reputation of international nurses working abroad.
April 30, 2026
Is Your GNM Qualification Enough for a Nursing Career in Australia
Struggling to understand why your GNM qualification does not meet Australian nursing registration standards? Find out why this qualification gap exists and how the GCAN program provides the exact bridge to your Australian career.
April 30, 2026
AHPRA’s Revised English Test Scores for 2026
With AHPRA’s 2026 English language score updates now officially in effect, internationally qualified nurses must adapt to a revised assessment structure. While the basic proficiency standard remains unchanged, specific section scores for tests like the PTE, OET, and Cambridge C1 have been recalibrated. Read MWT Education Consultancy's expert breakdown to discover the exact numerical changes and learn how this new scoring structure impacts your registration timeline.
January 29, 2026
Nursing Careers Abroad 2026
Discover why nurses are increasingly pursuing overseas careers for global exposure, advanced skills, and long-term professional growth.
November 03, 2025
Study Nursing in Australia: The Best Time to Become a Registered Nurse
Dreaming of a nursing career in Australia? Explore the best time to start your studies, registration steps, and career prospects for international students.
October 10, 2025
GCAN Online: A Globally Recognized Pathway for Nurses
Advance your nursing career with the Graduate Certificate in Advanced Nursing (GCAN Online) from IHM, Australia. Gain global recognition, study flexibly, and progress toward a Master’s degree with expert guidance from MWT Education Consultancy.
September 30, 2025
RN Registration in Australia – Complete Guide
MWT’s complete guide to Australian nursing registration covers AHPRA requirements, NCLEX-RN, OSCE, eligibility, challenges, and tips to help you succeed as a Registered Nurse in Australia.
September 09, 2025
Australia’s Nursing Workforce: Key Insights for Future Students
Australia faces a major nursing shortage to 2035, creating strong career opportunities for future nurses. Learn about government workforce strategies, advanced roles, and new international registration pathways.
August 14, 2025
What is the Right Intake for Your Study Abroad Journey?
Confused about which intake to choose for your study abroad journey? Learn about January, May, and September intakes in top countries like Canada, UK, Australia, and New Zealand—and how to pick the right one for your goals.
July 31, 2025
OET vs IELTS: Which Test is Right for Nurses?
Confused between OET and IELTS for nursing registration abroad? Compare test formats, ease of use for nurses, costs, and preparation tips to choose the right English test for your nursing career.