28 August 2026 Australia introduces revised skilled visa processing priorities — Ministerial Direction 119 The Australian Government introduced a revised processing framework for certain skilled nomination and visa applications through Ministerial Direction No. 119 in late July. The new framework directs the Department of Home Affairs to prioritise applications by reference to the applicant's occupation and whether the applicant was in or outside Australia at the time of application. Consistent with broader migration policy settings foreshadowed in the May 2026 Federal Budget, the Direction places greater emphasis on onshore applicants and occupations aligned with Australia's workforce and national interest priorities. A Tax Alert prepared by EY's People Advisory Services, and attached below, provides additional details. Document ID: 2026-1854 |
