The ACT Government has announced an additional Canberra Matrix invitation round on 11 June 2026 for Subclass 190 nominations only.
Importantly, this will be a small invitation round, with Canberra Matrix submissions in critical sector occupations potentially prioritised for selection.
For many skilled migrants seeking permanent residency, ACT nomination remains an important pathway. However, the latest figures highlight increasing competition for the remaining nomination places available during the 2025-26 program year.
An additional Canberra Matrix invitation round will take place on Thursday 11 June 2026.
The round will be limited to Subclass 190 nominations only and is expected to be relatively small. The ACT has indicated that Canberra Matrix submissions with occupations in critical sectors may be prioritised.
As with previous invitation rounds, invitations are not guaranteed and selection will depend on factors including Matrix ranking, occupation demand, occupation caps, available nomination places, and the date and time a Matrix was submitted.
The ACT has also confirmed that personal circumstances, including visa expiry dates or significant birthdays, will not result in priority processing or invitations.
The latest Canberra Matrix invitation round was held on 6 May 2026.
For Canberra residents, invitations were issued across several categories:
For overseas applicants:
The Doctorate Streamlined Pathway also continued to receive invitations, with 22 invitations issued for Subclass 190 and 8 invitations issued for Subclass 491.
The ACT received an allocation of:
• 800 nomination places for the Skilled Nominated (Subclass 190) visa
• 800 nomination places for the Skilled Work Regional (Subclass 491) visa
As at 7 May 2026, only 312 nomination places remained available across both programs.
This includes:
• 185 remaining Subclass 190 nomination places
• 127 remaining Subclass 491 nomination places
These figures demonstrate that a significant proportion of the ACT’s annual allocation has already been utilised.
While invitation statistics provide useful insight into current demand, they only tell part of the story.
Many applicants focus on Canberra Matrix scores and invitation numbers. However, it is equally important to consider how a particular nomination pathway aligns with long-term migration objectives.
The pathway that appears most accessible today may not necessarily provide the strongest outcome in the future.
Factors such as occupation demand, eligibility requirements, residency status, employer sponsorship opportunities, regional pathways and future permanent residency options should all form part of a broader migration strategy.
As nomination places become increasingly limited and competition remains strong, applicants should ensure they understand both their immediate eligibility and their longer-term migration options.
The right migration pathway is not always the most obvious one. For some applicants, ACT nomination may remain a strong option. For others, alternative employer-sponsored, regional or skilled migration pathways may provide a more suitable long-term outcome.
If you would like to discuss your circumstances and explore your options, our team can provide strategic migration advice tailored to your situation. Book a consultation today.
Every migration matter is different. Obtaining advice early can help identify the most appropriate pathway, manage potential risks and avoid unnecessary delays or complications.
