On 17 September 2026 the Minister for Home Affairs announced two changes for skilled migration. First, the points test has been redesigned. Second, the processing priorities for skilled visas would change. That second change is already in force.
This article explains both. For the other measures, see our guide to the 17 September migration overhaul.
The redesigned points test
First, the Minister said the Government has redone the points test in consultation with Treasury. The aim is a better economic return from the permanent skilled program.
He also described a new feature. The test will let the Government choose particular skills for an uplift. Those skills will then be treated as though they were a higher level of qualification.
What the uplift means for trades
The Minister gave one example. On implementation, anyone skilled in the housing trades will receive the same points as for a university qualification.
To see why that matters, look at the current test. Under Schedule 6D of the Migration Regulations, a bachelor degree scores 15 points. A trade qualification scores 10. Therefore, under the current numbers, the uplift would be worth five points.
In a close invitation round, five points can decide an invitation. However, the Government has not published the new points table. Because the whole test has been redesigned, the final numbers may differ.
Processing priorities have already changed
The Minister said one direction applied almost identical rules to the permanent and temporary programs. As a result, temporary applications sometimes stalled behind permanent ones.
That change arrived quickly. On 19 September 2026, Ministerial Directions 121 and 122 replaced Direction 119. Construction, healthcare, teaching, agriculture, aquaculture, fishing and resources occupations now sit in the top priority group. In addition, the new order applies to applications already lodged.
We explain both Directions in our article on the new skilled visa processing priorities.
What we do not know yet
- When the new points test starts. The Minister said only that the uplift applies on implementation.
- The full points table.
- Which occupations count as housing trades.
The Minister also said he wants an expression of interest system for who arrives. However, he said that change needs legislation, and he did not announce it.
What trades people can do now
First, work out a current points score. Without a baseline, nobody can measure the effect of the change. Our comparison of the 189, 190 and 491 visas explains where points matter most.
Second, start the skills assessment. An uplift does nothing without a positive assessment in hand. For most trades, that process takes months.
Third, consider employer sponsorship in the meantime. Construction now sits in the top priority group for the subclass 482 visa. Our guide to the Skills in Demand visa covers the requirements.
Frequently asked questions
How many points will a trade qualification be worth?
The Minister said housing trades will receive the same points as a university qualification. Under the current test a bachelor degree scores 15 and a trade scores 10, but the new table has not been published.
Which trades are housing trades?
The Government has not published the list.
Have the processing priorities changed yet?
Yes. Ministerial Directions 121 and 122 replaced Direction 119 on 19 September 2026, and construction is in the top priority group.
When do the points test changes start?
No date has been published. The Minister said the uplift applies on implementation.
Sam Kanjo, Migration Lawyer, Skyline Migration Lawyers, Melbourne.
Sources: the Minister for Home Affairs’ National Press Club address, 17 September 2026, Schedule 6D of the Migration Regulations 1994, and MIA Notices 16 and 17.
Know your score before the change lands
We can calculate a current points score and map the fastest realistic pathway. Call 03 8108 8748 or email info@skylinemigrationlawyers.com.au.
This article is general information only. It is not legal advice. Please seek advice about your own circumstances before you act.
