Budget 2026-27 Keeps Migration Cap at 185,000 but Shifts 70 % of Places On-shore
Severe Storm Grounds Flights and Disrupts Supply Chains across Western Australia
Home Affairs Data Shows Skilled Visa Processing Speeds Up in May 2026 Update
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Salary Threshold Hike to $146,717 Will Shrink Australia’s Fast-Track 482 “Specialist Skills” Visa Stream
The Department of Home Affairs confirms a four-fold speed gap between the Specialist Skills and Core Skills streams of the subclass 482 visa. On 1 July 2026 the Specialist Skills salary floor rises to $146,717, pushing many mid-range professional roles into the slower Core queue. Employers have until 30 June to lodge nominations under the current threshold or re-price roles above the new limit.
Budget Headlines Overstate ‘Cut’ to Regional Skilled Visas, Migration Experts Say
While the 2026-27 Budget cuts the planning level for regional skilled visas almost in half, experts point out that States issued far fewer invitations than last year’s quota allowed. Unless State allocations are also reduced, the change is unlikely to limit new 491 applications, though it may lengthen grant processing for files already lodged.
Australia Opens Ballot Registration for 2026-27 Work and Holiday Visas from India, China and Vietnam
Home Affairs has set 4–25 June 2026 as the registration period for the ballot that decides who may apply for subclass 462 Work and Holiday visas from India, China and Vietnam. Only those randomly selected can lodge a full visa application, and they must do so within 28 days.
DFAT Updates Uganda Travel Advice: Terrorism and Ebola Risks Keep ‘Exercise High Caution’ Rating
Smartraveller’s 30 May update keeps Uganda at “Exercise a high degree of caution” for Australians, citing persistent terrorism threats, violent crime and a cross-border Ebola outbreak. Companies and travellers are advised to avoid large gatherings, ensure security contingencies and carry proof of yellow-fever vaccination.