The ACT Government has released the latest Canberra Matrix invitation round results for May 2026, providing important updates for skilled migration applicants seeking ACT nomination under the Skilled Nominated visa (Subclass 190) and Skilled Work Regional visa (Subclass 491).
The ACT continues to issue invitations based on a fixed monthly allocation system. Invitations are offered to the highest-ranked Canberra Matrix submissions, with selection influenced by factors including:
Importantly, the ACT Government has confirmed that Canberra Matrix submissions in critical sectors may be prioritised. Current ACT priority sectors include:
The ACT’s updated migration occupation framework is designed to address ongoing labour shortages and support Canberra’s economic growth priorities.
Priority Occupations in Demand in the ACT
The ACT Nominated Migration Program Occupation List (previously known as the ACT Critical Skills List) includes a range of occupations currently in demand across Canberra.
Some of the priority occupations currently receiving strong demand include:
The ACT Government has also indicated that occupations supporting the territory’s technology, infrastructure, healthcare, and renewable energy sectors may continue to receive favourable consideration in invitation rounds.
Doctorate Streamlined Pathway Invitations
In the May 2026 round, the ACT issued:
Canberra Resident Invitations
Small Business Owners
The ACT invited:
457 / 482 Visa Holders
The ACT invited:
Critical Skill Occupations
The majority of invitations were issued to applicants in critical skill occupations, including:
Overseas Applicant Invitations
For overseas applicants in critical skill occupations, the ACT issued:
ACT Nomination Allocation for 2025–2026
The ACT has received a total allocation of:
Application Outcomes as at 7 May 2026
Current ACT nomination statistics show:
Refusal figures currently stand at:
Residency Status Breakdown
Of all approvals issued since the last invitation round:
Remaining ACT Nomination Places
The ACT currently has 312 nomination places remaining, including:
What This Means for Skilled Migration Applicants
Competition for ACT nomination remains highly competitive, particularly for applicants in priority sectors and high-demand occupations. Invitation scores continue to fluctuate depending on occupation demand and remaining allocations.
Applicants working in healthcare, education, construction, trades, engineering, ICT, and renewable energy fields may continue to benefit from stronger invitation prospects under the ACT migration program.
A carefully prepared Canberra Matrix can significantly improve your chances of receiving an invitation. Ensuring your points, employment claims, qualifications, and supporting documentation are accurate and strategically presented is essential.
Need Assistance With Your ACT Skilled Migration Application?
If you are considering applying for ACT nomination under the Subclass 190 or Subclass 491 visa pathways, our experienced migration team can help assess your eligibility and guide you through the Canberra Matrix process.
👉 Book a consultation with our migration team today:
https://www.heenanbrownemigration.com/consultation/
