FREE in-person seminar on Australia’s National Innovation Visa (NIV) in Singapore on 4 March

If you are a high-achieving professional, entrepreneur, or investor based in Singapore, this may be one of your best opportunities to migrate to Australia.

On 4 March 2026, Chris Johnston, Australian Immigration Lawyer and founder of Work Visa Lawyers, will be in Singapore to host a free in-person seminar on Australia’s National Innovation Visa (NIV).

This is a one-night-only event, with limited seats, and registration is required.

What is the National Innovation Visa?

The National Innovation Visa (NIV) is an Australian direct permanent residency visa designed for exceptional candidates with:

• Exceptional professional achievements
• International recognition
• Proven innovation, investment, research, or business impact

The NIV has replaced the Global Talent Visa and is one of the most powerful PR pathways to Australia.

Event Details

National Innovation Visa (NIV) – Singapore Free Seminar

📍 Singapore
📅 4 March 2026
🕖 6:30 pm (Registration) | 7:00 pm (Event starts)
📍 Location: Pan Pacific Singapore, Marina Square
🎟 FREE registration through the following link: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/australias-national-innovation-visa-niv-free-seminar-tickets-1983328944262

Presenter:
Chris Johnston, Australian Immigration Lawyer

• 20 years’ experience in Australian migration law
• Has assisted many Global Talent and National Innovation visa applicants to move to Australia

One night only. Once seats are filled, registrations will close.

Who should attend?

This seminar is designed for:

• Entrepreneurs and startup founders
• Investors, angel investors, and innovative investors
• High-performing professionals in:

Critical technologies – including artificial intelligence technology, cyber security technology, quantum technology, advanced information and communication technology, robotics and autonomous systems.

Health industries – including biotechnology, genomics, pharmaceuticals and precision medicine, artificial intelligence in health, and medical science manufacturing for therapeutic products.

Renewables and low emission technologies – including renewable energy generation, clean energy technology, renewable hydrogen, emissions reduction and carbon storage, and processing and refining of critical minerals.

Financial Services and FinTech – including blockchain engineering, cloud technologies, FinTech cyber and data security, financial data science and analysis, innovations in application programming, and software engineering.

Check out our Global Talent client reviews on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MnPnFGrV8OM&list=PL1jMey0Gj7LnkMvK8032evhfp8i2-sXlz

Why you should not miss this seminar

• Learn how the National Innovation Visa really works in practice
• Understand whether the NIV is realistic for your profile
• Rare opportunity for a face-to-face session with an Australian immigration lawyer
• Chris Johnston will be in Singapore for a very limited time

This seminar is designed to help you avoid costly mistakes and assess your options before you act.

What you will learn

During the session, Chris will cover:

• What the National Innovation Visa is (and is not)
• Who is actually getting invited
• Common mistakes that can kill an application
• How nominations and Expressions of Interest (EOIs) work
• Lessons learned from the Global Talent Visa
• Alternative Australian PR pathways if the NIV is not suitable

Why people living in Singapore are moving to Australia

Singapore is widely recognised as Asia’s leading hub for innovation, finance, and global business. It attracts thousands of high‑performing professionals, founders, researchers, and senior executives from around the world.

However, many of these highly skilled individuals are now choosing to relocate to Australia primarily because Australia offers long‑term stability, a clearer pathway to permanent residency and citizenship, and greater security for their families.

In contrast, Singapore’s immigration framework does not guarantee permanent residency, even for exceptional talent. Professionals can live and work in Singapore for many years without ever securing long‑term status, creating uncertainty about their future.

Australia, on the other hand, provides a more predictable and accessible route to permanent residency, making it an appealing alternative for those who want stability, family security, and long‑term settlement options.

Beyond visa certainty and long-term stability, many professionals living in Singapore are also drawn to Australia’s lifestyle. Australia offers a more relaxed pace of life, access to open spaces, beaches and nature, and a strong emphasis on work–life balance.

Families are attracted to the outdoor culture, reputable education system and child-friendly environment, while professionals value the opportunity to build their careers without sacrificing personal wellbeing. For many, Australia represents not just a migration outcome, but a lifestyle upgrade.

Another major reason for the shift is access to healthcare. Australia offers comprehensive medical services through both public and private hospitals—benefits that non‑citizens in Singapore typically cannot access in the same way.

Australia is also one of the most multicultural nations in the world, home to millions of people from over 200 countries. Its strong focus on inclusivity, diversity, and community support helps newcomers feel welcomed and integrated from the start.

Who is Chris Johnston?

Chris Johnston is an Australian Immigration Lawyer with 20 years of experience in migration law. He founded Work Visa Lawyers in 2011 and has helped thousands of individuals and businesses secure Australian visas, including skilled, employer-sponsored, partner, business, global talent, and innovation visas.

He is a leading educator in Australian migration law, delivering CPD-accredited training for the Migration Institute of Australia and the Law Society of South Australia, and currently serves as the South Australia President of the Migration Institute of Australia.

Chris is also one of Australia’s original immigration content creators, with 180,000+ followers across YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, known for explaining complex migration law in a clear and practical way.

Free registration – limited seats

This event is free, but places are strictly limited and expected to fill quickly.

👉 Register now to avoid missing out.

Disclaimer

This seminar provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice.
Eligibility is assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Meet Australian Immigration Lawyer Chris Johnston in Colombo – Sri Lanka Migration Expo & Open Day 2026

Work Visa Lawyers is honoured to announce that Chris Johnston has been invited to Sri Lanka by Australia Future Centre to attend the Sri Lanka Migration Expo & Open Day.

Chris will be hosted by Australia Future Centre, a migration advisory and business supporting Sri Lankan professionals and families with their Australian migration.

If you are considering migrating to Australia, applying for permanent residency (PR), or exploring employer-sponsored visa options, this is a unique opportunity to receive trusted, up-to-date advice directly from an experienced Australian immigration lawyer.

Event Details

Sri Lanka Migration Expo
Date: 28 February 2026
Time: From 9:00am onwards
Location: Havelock City, Colombo
Cost: FREE
Registration via Google Form
Spots are limited, and registration is essential.

Why Attend the Sri Lanka Migration Expo & Open Day?

Australian migration law is constantly changing. Attending this event will help you:

• Understand the best Australian visa options for 2026
• Learn about permanent residency pathways
• Discover employer-sponsored and regional migration opportunities
• Ask direct questions to an Australian immigration lawyer
• Avoid common visa mistakes that can delay your application

Whether you are already in Sri Lanka or planning your future overseas, this event is designed to give you clarity and direction.

Skilled Professionals: Your Australian Opportunity Starts Here

Australia continues to experience skills shortages across multiple industries. If you are a qualified and experienced professional in one of the following occupations, this event is especially relevant for you:

• Motor mechanics
• Nurses
• Chefs
• Engineers (Civil engineers and other engineering professionals)
• Construction workers
• Social workers
• Quantity Surveyors
• IT professionals
• Healthcare managers

Australia’s migration program strongly supports skilled professionals through state nomination and employer-sponsored pathways such as the Subclass 491, Subclass 190, Subclass 482, Subclass 186, Subclass 494 and DAMA programs.

If you are serious about building your future in Australia, we encourage you to register and attend to learn how your occupation may fit within current visa programs. This is your opportunity to speak directly with Chris Johnston and understand your eligibility, migration strategy and next steps.

National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858)

We will also present detailed information about the National Innovation Visa (NIV), a direct permanent residency pathway for individuals with exceptional talent and international recognition.

This visa is suitable for:

• High-level entrepreneurs and founders
• Investors
• Researchers and academics
• Experts in critical technologies
• Leaders in innovation-driven industries

The National Innovation Visa does not require employer sponsorship and is not points-tested. It is designed for individuals who can demonstrate exceptional achievements and the ability to contribute significantly to Australia’s economy and innovation ecosystem.

If you believe you may qualify for this highly competitive visa, this seminar is an excellent opportunity to understand the eligibility framework and strategic approach.

Who is Chris Johnston?

Chris Johnston is an Australian Immigration Lawyer with 20 years of experience in migration law. He founded Work Visa Lawyers in 2011 and has helped thousands of individuals and businesses secure Australian visas, including skilled, employer-sponsored, partner, business, global talent and innovation visas.

He is a leading educator in Australian migration law, delivering CPD-accredited training for the Migration Institute of Australia and the Law Society of South Australia, and currently serves as the South Australia President of the Migration Institute of Australia.

Chris is also one of Australia’s original immigration content creators, with more than 180,000 followers across YouTube, TikTok, Instagram and Facebook. He is widely known for explaining complex Australian migration law in a clear, practical and easy-to-understand way.

How to Register

To secure your seat, please complete our Google Registration Form.

Once registered, you will receive confirmation and further event details.

We look forward to meeting you in Colombo and helping you take the next step towards your Australian permanent residency journey.

For more information, please contact Australia Future Centre:
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Phone number: +94 77 880 7761 (Sri Lanka)

February Immigration News 2026: An Anti-Immigration Party Is Rising, State Nomination Updates and the Best Australian Visas for 2026

In this February immigration update, we focus on the information that will help you plan and apply for Australian permanent residency (PR) in 2026.

This month’s key topics include:

• A significant political shift that couldimpactfuture migration settings
• The most popular employer-sponsored visas: Subclass 482 and Subclass 186
• State nomination updates for the Subclass 190 and Subclass 491
• DAMAs and regional migration pathways
• Queensland’s approach to the National Innovation Visa
• The predicted new income threshold for employer-sponsored visas

Watch the Full Video:

Political Shift: The Rise of One Nation and Immigration Policy

One Nation is now recording its second-highest approval rating. This is a major political shift that could ultimately lead to a reduction in immigration. This may negatively impact the chances of many people seeking Australian permanent residency.

The Rise of One Nation

To quote the Australian Financial Review on 1 February:

“Following two weeks of Coalition infighting, first-preference support for One Nation has jumped to 26 per cent, up from 17 per cent in December. One Nation overtaking the Liberals and Nationals for the first time ….”

In the same poll, Labor was at 34 per cent.

What are the current immigration policies of One Nation?

According to their website, One Nation’s migration policies include:

• Capping visas at 130,000 per year — referring to permanent residency visas, which are currently set at 185,000 per year
• Deporting 75,000 illegal migrants
• Reintroducing Temporary Protection Visas (TPVs)
• Proposing an eight-year waiting period for citizenship and welfare eligibility

The history of One Nation began with an anti-immigration maiden speech by Pauline Hanson in 1996. There have been many ups and downs since then.

In her maiden speech, she called for multiculturalism to be abolished, with anti-multiculturalism themes continuing to the present.

One Nation is generally anti-immigration, and if it gains more popularity, this could reduce immigration in the future.

For example, major parties could adopt or move closer to One Nation policies. This previously occurred during the John Howard period.

State Nomination News: 190 and 491 Visa Updates

New South Wales 491 Visa Closed

On 19 January 2026, New South Wales opened and closed its 491 Pathway 1 and Pathway 3 on the same day due to exceptionally high demand. Many people missed out simply because they couldn’t apply quickly enough.

Is NSW selecting the best candidates or just the fastest applicants?

South Australia Invitation Rounds

South Australia is currently running invitation rounds on the first Monday of each month.

For February, South Australia invited:

• 227 applicants for the Subclass 190 visa
• 137 applicants for the Subclass 491 visa

Health professionals were the clear winners in this round.

If you are working in healthcare or an allied health occupation, South Australia may currently offer stronger prospects than some other states.

Northern Territory Closure

The Northern Territory has now closed to new applications.

According to the NT Government website:

“The NT Government has now received sufficient applications to fill the nomination allocation for the 2025–26 program year. The NT nomination portal is now closed to new applications. Applications lodged prior to the closure will continue to be assessed, with outcomes to be provided by 30 June 2026.”

We expect more states to start closing soon.

Should You Move States for State Nomination?

This is one of the most common questions we receive.

Work Visa Lawyers is cautious with this advice because every state is dealing with the same issue: large numbers of temporary visa holders competing for a relatively small number of state nomination places.

We are now well into the 2025–26 program year, which ends on 30 June 2026.

There is a real risk that you:

• Relocate
• Spend significant money
• Change jobs
• And then the state program closes shortly after

Relocating is expensive, and finding new employment takes time. Migration decisions should be strategic — not reactive.

Please book an appointment before you move states. 

Employer-Sponsored Visas: 482 and 186 Pathways

This brings us to employer-sponsored visas, such as:

• Subclass 482 (Core Skills stream)
• Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme – Permanent Residency)

If you secure a genuine job offer with strong prospects of sponsorship in your occupation, I am much more open to relocation.

At the moment, employer-sponsored visas can be a more reliable pathway than waiting for state nomination invitations.

Of course, finding an employer willing to sponsor you is not easy. We have published guidance on how to approach employers strategically and position yourself for sponsorship.

DAMAs: A Growing Alternative Pathway

We are seeing increasing interest in Designated Area Migration Agreements (DAMAs).

DAMAs are employer-sponsored migration pathways designed for specific regional areas.

Traditionally, interest was driven by:

• A broader range of eligible occupations
• Access for truck drivers, disability carers, and other critical roles
• Age concessions (particularly for applicants aged 45–55)

Increasingly, however, we are seeing applicants turn to DAMAs after years of trying — and failing — to receive invitations for the Subclass 189, 190, or 491 visas.

This is especially common for onshore applicants who are not receiving invitations and need a more realistic pathway to Australian PR.

National Innovation Visa: Queensland Focus

We are seeing strong interest in Queensland’s state nomination options under the National Innovation Visa framework.

Queensland currently offers:

• An entrepreneuroptionrequiring a $1 million investment
• An investoroptionrequiring a $5 million investment

Entrepreneurs and investors often do not fit neatly into traditional migration models. Their education may not align with their professional history, they may not suit skills assessments, and they are typically not dependent on a single employer.

The flexibility of the National Innovation Visa is what makes it so attractive.

We offer a free assessment for those wishing to explore whether this pathway could suit their circumstances.

New Income Threshold for Employer-Sponsored Visas

The new income threshold for the upcoming financial year, starting on 1 July, will be announced soon.

If the government applies a similar increase to last year (approximately 4.6%) the minimum salary requirement for employer-sponsored visas such as the Subclass 482 and Subclass 186 could rise from $76,515 to approximately $80,000.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics will publish its latest Average Weekly Earnings report on 26 February, which will provide a clearer indication of the likely increase.

If you are close to the current threshold, timing may become critical.

Hate Speech Laws and Migration Policy

Hate speech law changes have now been enacted, and we will continue to monitor how these affect migration policy, visa decision-making, and visa cancellation powers.

Planning Your Australian PR Strategy in 2026

The Australian migration landscape is becoming increasingly competitive and politically sensitive. With tighter state nomination programs, rising income thresholds and potential political shifts influencing migration caps, applicants must approach their Australian permanent residency strategy with careful planning and informed decision-making.

Key takeaways for 2026 include:

• State nomination pathways (Subclass 190 and Subclass 491) are highly competitive

• Employer-sponsored visas (Subclass 482 and Subclass 186) may offer greater certainty

• DAMAs are becoming a realistic and structured regional alternative

• Income thresholds for sponsored visas are likely to rise

• Political developments could influence future migration caps and policy settings

In this environment, relying on timing or chance is no longer sufficient. A clear, strategic migration plan — tailored to your occupation, visa history and long-term goals — is more important than ever.

Work Visa Lawyers is recognised as one of Australian’s leading immigration law firms, with extensive experience in skilled migration, employer-sponsored visas, DAMAs, partner visas, global talent, national innovation visa and complex migration matters. 

Our team of immigration lawyers and registered migration agents provides strategic advice through both in-person consultations in Adelaide and secure online consultations for clients across Australia and overseas.

If you are planning your Australian PR pathway in 2026, obtaining professional guidance early can significantly improve your prospects and reduce unnecessary risk.

Talk to an Immigration Lawyer

Many people planning their future in Australia are asking the same question:

Will I ever get permanent residency in Australia? 

If you are studying, working, or living in Australia on a temporary visa, you may be wondering whether permanent residency is still realistic in 2026 — or whether the system has moved out of reach.

This article looks at the real migration opportunities for 2026, using current data and practical strategies. We also address difficult but important topics, including:

• The lack of invitations for the 189 visa, 190 visa, and 491 visa

• Visa cancellations and stricter checks

• How major events, such as the Bondi Beach attack, may influence immigration processing

Our goal is to help you make smarter, more realistic decisions about your migration pathway.

How the Recent Bondi Beach Attack Is Affecting Australian Immigration Processing

We would like to begin by expressing our sincere condolences to the victims and families affected by the tragic Bondi Beach attack in December.

For people living in Australia on temporary visas, this event may have broader implications. We expect to see:

• Stricter background and character checks

• Increased visa cancellations

• Greater scrutiny across visa applications

We will address this topic in more detail in a separate article, as it deserves careful and sensitive discussion.

Are 189, 190 and 491 Visas Still Realistic in 2026?

The reduction in places for the 190 and 491 visas has caused many people to ask whether Australia is still achievable.

The answer is yes — for some people. However, the strategy has changed.

For many years, points-tested visas such as the 189 visa, 190 visa, and 491 visa were the primary goal for skilled migrants, with employer sponsorship seen as a second option. That is no longer the case.

Employer-Sponsored Visas: The Strongest Pathway in 2026

If your goal is Australian permanent residency, employer-sponsored visas are now the strongest and most realistic options in 2026.

These include:

• 482 Skills in Demand visa

• 186 Employer Nomination Scheme

• 494 Regional Employer Sponsored visa

• DAMA and Labour Agreements

Australian businesses are facing genuine skills shortages across multiple sectors and are actively seeking reliable workers. As a result, we have seen:

• A significant increase in employer-sponsored visas

• A sharp reduction in state nomination places, including the 190 visa and 491 visa

Visas such as the 482 visa provide a pathway from temporary work to permanent residency through the 186 visa and many migrants are using this pathway as the first option.

Book an Appointment

Why State Nomination Is More Competitive Than Ever

Many people ask whether they should target states like Western Australia or Tasmania, which often appear to have more flexible criteria.

However, the reality is this:

• Tasmania has 1,850 nomination places in 2025-26 financial year

• Western Australia has 3,400 places — with 3,355 already issued 

• Combined, that is only 5,250 nominations

You are not competing against hundreds of applicants — you are competing against hundreds of thousands of skilled migrants who already have:

• Skills assessments

• English test results

• Work experience

• Active EOIs

Most applicants, no matter how qualified, will never receive an invitation.

This does not mean the General Skills Migration (GSM) program is dead — but it is highly competitive. 

Which Occupations Are Still Receiving Invitations?

Looking at invitation results from 2025, one thing is clear: Australia is inviting only where there is genuine demand.

If you are under 45 and your occupation is clearly in shortage, it may still be worth:

• Obtaining a skills assessment

• Improving your English score

• Positioning your EOI strategically

High-Demand Jobs in Australia for Skilled Migration

Occupations currently receiving invitations include:

• Construction trades (bricklayers, carpenters, electricians, plumbers, roofers)

• Construction managers

• Healthcare professionals

• Secondary school teachers

When GSM Is Not the Best Migration Pathway

Some occupations remain on the skilled lists but are not receiving invitations, including:

• Marketing specialists

• Accountants

• Cooks

• Enrolled nurses

• Software engineers

• Contract administrators

• Niche roles such as artistic directors, copywriters, and dog handlers

In these cases, GSM visas may not be your strongest pathway.

Alternative Visa Options to Consider

Instead, you should consider:

• Employer-sponsored visas

• Alternative pathways, such as partner visas if you have an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident partner

We understand that employer sponsorship is not easy — especially if you are offshore — but thousands of applicants succeed each year, and you may be one of them.

Check our blog, “How to Find a Sponsor,” for helpful tips on how to find an Australian business to sponsor you.

Queensland National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858) – 2026 Update

Queensland has now opened nominations for the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858).

This visa offers direct permanent residency and targets exceptionally talented individuals, including:

• Entrepreneurs

• Innovative investors

• Researchers

• Athletes

• Creatives

Permanent Residency Pathway for Individuals: 

• Up to the age of 55, or higher in exceptional cases 
• High-value entrepreneurs who commit AUD $1 million to new ventures in Queensland 
• Innovative investors who invest AUD $5 million in Queensland’s innovation ecosystem

This is one of the strongest permanent residency pathways currently available.

 
We have published a detailed guide explaining the Queensland NIV nomination process.

 
We also offer a free NIV assessment, where our team can check your eligibility.

Adelaide University Opens: What This Means for Students

Following the merger of the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia, Adelaide University has officially opened enrolments, becoming the largest university in Australia.

This will bring:

• More international students

• Increased investment in South Australia

However, students must have a clear migration strategy before enrolling and applying for a student visa, especially if permanent residency is part of the long-term plan.

Check our blog “Best 8 courses to study in Australia to get PR”. 

Student Visa Changes for India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Bhutan

Applicants from India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Bhutan may face increased scrutiny, as Australia has updated student visa assessment levels to strengthen integrity measures.

These changes may have been triggered by reports of widespread fraudulent degree practices. As a result, it is more important than ever for students to submit strong, well-documented applications.

Student Visa Expiry Reminder: Avoid Becoming Unlawful

We are seeing a large number of student visas expiring in March, many around the 15th.

Every year, people make the same mistake — waiting too long.

If your visa is expiring soon:

• Do not wait until the last minute

• Understand your next visa options early

• Lodge a valid application before expiry

Options may include course extensions, graduate visas, or transitions to skilled visas — but timing is critical.

How We Can Help You Plan Your Migration Strategy for Australia in 2026 

Migration to Australia in 2026 is still possible — but it requires realistic expectations, the right strategy, and early planning.

At Work Visa Lawyers, we are widely regarded as one of the best migration lawyers and one of the best registered migration agents in Adelaide, with extensive experience across skilled, employer-sponsored, and permanent residency pathways.

If you would like tailored advice based on your individual circumstances, please book an appointment and talk to our team.

Book an Appointment

Townsville North Queensland DAMA Pathway: PR Up to 54 over 200 Occupations

If you’ve been researching regional visas, DAMA pathways, employer sponsorship options, or whether it’s still possible to obtain Australian permanent residency up to age 54, this guide is for you.

One of the most common questions we receive is whether Queensland offers a DAMA pathway.

The answer is yes — and one of the most flexible options available is the Townsville North Queensland Designated Area Migration Agreement (TNQ DAMA).

This pathway can be particularly valuable if you are:

• Over 45 and struggling to qualify for permanent residency
• Seeking age, English, or salary concessions
• Working in an occupation with limited visa options under standard programs

Below, we explain how the TNQ DAMA works, who it is for, and how it can lead to permanent residency in Australia.

What Is the Townsville North Queensland DAMA?

The Townsville North Queensland DAMA is a formal agreement between the Australian Government and Townsville Enterprise, acting as the Designated Area Representative for North Queensland.

The agreement allows approved regional employers to sponsor overseas workers when they are unable to fill roles locally.
Because the program is designed to address regional workforce shortages, it offers greater flexibility than standard employer-sponsored visa pathways.

Why the TNQ DAMA Matters for Employers and Migrants

The TNQ DAMA includes more than 200 eligible occupations, covering both skilled and semi-skilled roles.

For employers, it provides a realistic way to fill genuine labour shortages.
For migrant workers, it opens up migration pathways that do not exist under the standard skilled visa system.

Most importantly, it offers concessions that make permanent residency achievable for people who would otherwise be excluded.

Key Concessions Under the TNQ DAMA

Some of the major advantages of the TNQ DAMA include:

• Age concessions
  In many occupations, applicants can access permanent residency up to age 50 or 54 (instead of the usual age limit of 45).
  Note: with age concessions, applicants must generally be under 54 at the time of Subclass 186 or 494 nomination.
• English concessions
  Lower English language requirements may apply for certain occupations.
• Salary concessions
  Some roles allow reduced salary thresholds compared to standard visa requirements.
• Long-term labour agreements
  Once approved, a DAMA labour agreement can be valid for up to five years.
• Permanent residency pathways, including:
  • Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme)
  • Subclass 494 (Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional) leading to Subclass 191 PR

Which Regions and Occupations Are Covered? / TNQ DAMA Occupation List

The TNQ DAMA applies to designated areas of North Queensland, as defined by Townsville Enterprise.

The Townsville North Queensland DAMA occupation list is extensive and includes roles that are not available under Queensland’s standard state nomination programs, such as:

• Truck driver
• Kitchen hand
• Hotel receptionist
• Motor mechanic
• Fruit picker
• Numerous health-related occupations

The full occupation list is available on the official Townsville DAMA website and should always be checked carefully, as eligibility and concessions vary by role.

How Employers Can Access the TNQ DAMA

Accessing the TNQ DAMA involves several stages:

Stage 1 – Endorsement

The employer applies to Townsville Enterprise for endorsement as a DAMA business.
This includes submitting:

• DAMA request form
• Business declaration
• Covering letter outlining genuine labour needs
• Job description
• Organisational chart
• Evidence of unsuccessful local recruitment

Stage 2 – Labour Agreement

Once endorsed, the employer applies to the Department of Home Affairs for the labour agreement.

Stage 3 – Nomination

The employer nominates the overseas worker for an approved DAMA occupation.

Stage 4 – Visa Application

The worker lodges their visa application, typically under:

• Subclass 482
• Subclass 494
• Subclass 186

At every stage, employers must demonstrate that Australian workers were prioritised and that labour market testing has been conducted correctly.

How We Can Help

At Work Visa Lawyers, we specialise in employer-sponsored migration and regional pathways, including DAMA labour agreements. Our founder, Chris Johnston, is one of the best immigration lawyers in Australia, with over 20 years of experience in migration law.

We can assist with:

• Assessing whether your business and occupation qualify
• Advising on labour market testing requirements
• Preparing endorsement and labour agreement applications
• Managing communication with the Department of Home Affairs
• Handling sponsorship, nomination, and visa applications from start to finish

Whether you are a North Queensland employer struggling to fill a critical role, or a migrant worker exploring regional migration options, we can guide you through the process with clarity and confidence.

With the right strategy, it can provide a realistic pathway to permanent residency — even when other visa options are no longer available.

If you would like personalised advice, we invite you to book a consultation with our team.

Book an Appointment

Sources:

https://www.townsvilleenterprise.com.au/skills-and-migration/designated-area-migration-agreement/

https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/os-data-2/townsvilleenterprise-com-au/documents/townsville_north_queensland_occupation_list_june2025.pdf

The Harsh Truth About the 189, 190 & 491 Visas (No One Tells You This)

Every year, thousands of hopeful migrants invest in skills assessments, English exams, NAATI credentials, and multiple Expression of Interest (EOI) submissions with dreams of securing the 189, 190 or 491 visas.

But here’s the harsh reality: most applicants will never receive an invitation.

Despite meeting the minimum points threshold of 65, many discover (often too late) that competition is fierce, quotas are limited, and not all occupations are treated equally.

How the 189, 190 & 491 Visas Work

Australia’s General Skilled Migration (GSM) program is points-based and relies on SkillSelect invitations from the Department of Home Affairs.

Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa

• Permanent visa with no sponsorship or nomination required.
• Must receive an invitation from SkillSelect to apply.

Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa

• Permanent visa requiring state or territory nomination.
• Must be invited after meeting the requirements of both the state and Federal Government.

Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa

• A 5-year provisional visa with a pathway to permanent residency.
• Requires state or territory nomination.

Meeting the points threshold (currently 65) only gets you into the EOI pool — not into the invitation.

Why Many Skilled Migrants Are Missing Out

1. State and Territory Nomination Numbers Are Limited

Each state and territory has a limited quota each financial year. Once these places fill up, invitations stop, even for highly qualified applicants.

2. Occupation Demand Varies Drastically

Some occupations are in high demand, while others are oversubscribed or not prioritised, regardless of applicant experience or qualifications.

3. The Points Test Is Competitive

Although 65 points is the minimum, invitations typically go to applicants with 85–95+ points, depending on occupation.

Who Gets Invited in 2025?

Based on the latest 2025 SkillSelect data:

In-Demand Occupations (More Likely to Receive Invitations)

• Carpenters and other construction trades – invited with as low as 65 points.
• Nurses and health professionals – generally invited with 75+ points.
• Teachers – prioritised in some states.

Highly Competitive or Low-Invitation Occupations

• Accountants
• Restaurant Managers
• Marketing Specialists
• Enrolled Nurses
• Facilities Managers

Despite strong skills, many in these professions are not receiving invitations due to high competition and limited places.

Real Invitation Examples (2025 Data)

• Architects received 189 invitations with 90 points.
• Carpenters received 189 invitations with 65 points.
• Marketing Specialists in South Australia received 491 invitations with 105 points.
• No invitations were issued for Accountants or Chefs in recent 189 rounds.

These examples show how invitation outcomes heavily depend on your occupation and points score.

Before You Invest: What You Must Know

Before spending thousands on:

• Skills assessments
• NAATI testing
• English exams
• Multiple EOIs

You should first:
✅ Confirm your realistic chances of receiving an invitation.
✅ Understand state and occupation trends.
✅ Explore alternative visa options that may better suit your profile.

A single consultation can save you from months of unnecessary effort and investment.

Alternative Pathways to Permanent Residency

Employer-Sponsored Visas

If your occupation has low invitation chances, employer sponsorship might be a better option:

• Subclass 482 (Skills in Demand)
• Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme)
• Designed Area Migration Agreement (DAMA)

These options can offer a more direct route to working and settling in Australia, especially for occupations not getting invited under GSM.

Yes, finding an eligible sponsor can be challenging, but it’s often more realistic than waiting endlessly for an EOI invitation that may never come.

Check our blog How to find a sponsor. 

Key Takeaways for Skilled Migrants

• Don’t assume points alone are enough.
• Check occupation trends and demand across different states.
• Get professional advice early to avoid wasted investment.
• Consider employer sponsorship as a viable alternative.
• Stay updated on invitation rounds and policy changes.

Need Help Understanding Your Options?

At Work Visa Lawyers, we provide honest, realistic advice about your best visa strategy, based on the latest data, policy changes and real-world outcomes.

Don't risk your future by relying on guesswork. Book a consultation and take control of your migration journey with clarity and confidence.

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Entrepreneurs $1 Million or Investors $5 Million in Queensland for PR – National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858)

Complete the free NIV assessment

Queensland has officially opened its National Innovation Visa (subclass 858) nomination program, a direct permanent residency pathway for:

• high-value entrepreneurs who commit AUD $1 million to new ventures in Queensland

• innovative investors who invest AUD $5 million in Queensland’s innovation ecosystem

The NIV has attractive features:

• a straight-to-permanent residency visa

• no skills assessment or points test

• age limit up to 55 or higher for those who offer exceptional benefits

Below is a simple and clear overview of what Queensland is offering, who may be eligible, and how the nomination process works.

What Is the National Innovation Visa (NIV)?

The National Innovation Visa (subclass 858) is designed for exceptionally talented individuals who can contribute to Australia’s economy, innovation, and global competitiveness, including entrepreneurs and innovative investors.

Queensland has now released specific nomination criteria for entrepreneurs and innovative investors, along with a Registration of Interest (ROI) process.

There are 4,300 NIV places available nationally until 30 June 2026, although Queensland’s state nominations will be a smaller subset of this total.

We provide clear guidance on the National Innovation Visa on our website, and you can also complete our FREE online eligibility assessment to see if this pathway may be right for you.

Why This Is Important for Queensland

This program is expected to deliver major economic benefits to the state.

For example, if Queensland were to nominate just 200 innovative investors, this could inject at least $1 billion directly into Queensland’s innovation economy, with further job creation and long-term economic growth through business expansion and commercialisation.

Queensland NIV Nomination for Entrepreneurs

Queensland is seeking established or emerging entrepreneurs who are ready to commercialise or expand an innovative product or service in Queensland.

Key eligibility requirements

To be considered for Queensland nomination as an entrepreneur, you must:

What evidence may be required

If Queensland contacts you after submitting your ROI, you may need to provide evidence such as:

Examples of strong supporting evidence include

Queensland NIV Nomination for Innovative Investors

Queensland is also nominating innovative investors who have a strong track record of supporting high-growth, innovative ventures.

Key eligibility requirements

To be considered as an innovative investor, you must:

Accepted investment structures may include

What evidence may be required

If invited to proceed, Queensland may request evidence such as:

Candidates with experience in Tier One or Tier Two high-growth priority sectors will be highly regarded.

How the Queensland Nomination Process Works

To seek Queensland Government nomination, you must:

Nomination is competitive and discretionary, and not all eligible candidates will receive an invitation.

Please note that securing Queensland nomination does not guarantee an invitation for all the grant of National Innovation Visa. 

We can assist you with submitting a Registration of Interest (ROI), the NIV Expression of Interest (EOI) and visa application if you are invited.

Entrepreneurs and investors, the wait is over!

Many were left disappointed after the Australian Government closed the subclass 188 Business Innovation and Investment visa on 1 July 2024.

This left investors with very limited options to obtain permanent residency in Australia.

Complete Our Free NIV Assessment

The National Innovation Visa criteria, as outlined in Direction 112, are complex, and candidates must meet the requirements set out by both the Department of Home Affairs and the Queensland Government.

Strong evidence, positioning, and alignment with Queensland’s priorities are critical.

We have detailed guidance on the National Innovation Visa available on our website, and you can also complete our FREE online eligibility assessment to check whether this pathway may be suitable for you.

If you are an entrepreneur or investor considering Queensland nomination, early planning is essential. 

For tailored advice, we recommend speaking with an experienced immigration lawyer before submitting your ROI.

Please book an appointment with our team. For earlier availability, please call our office or send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Book an Appointment

Sources: 

NIV Queensland Website: https://www.tiq.qld.gov.au/invest/national-innovation-visa

Department of Home Affairs NIV: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/national-innovation-visa-858

NIV Sectors: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/visas-for-innovation/national-innovation-visa

Ministerial Intervention in Australia: What It Is & What You Need to Know

Ministerial Intervention (MI) is a last‑resort avenue in Australian immigration law where the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship personally considers granting you a visa when all other legal options have been exhausted. It is a discretionary power under the Migration Act 1958 (Cth), specifically sections 351 and 501J, meaning the Minister may grant a visa if it’s deemed in the public interest — but he is under no obligation to do so.

In essence, MI provides a final opportunity for people whose visa applications have been refused by the Administrative Review Tribunal, or after further legal avenues, to ask the Minister to intervene on compassionate or exceptional grounds.

Who Can Lodge a Ministerial Intervention Request?

A Ministerial Intervention request is intended as a last‑resort option. You can only lodge one after:

• Your visa application has been refused; and
• You have exhausted appeals at the Tribunal, and in some cases the courts.

This request asks the Minister to personally consider granting you a visa due to exceptional and compelling circumstances.

Examples of Exceptional and Compelling Circumstances

Ministerial Intervention is usually only considered where there are exceptional and compelling circumstances, such as:

• Serious health issues and being permanently unfit to depart Australia;
• Being the parent of an Australian citizen or permanent resident child;
• Working in a skilled occupation;
• Being the carer of an Australian citizen who needs care and has been issued a Carer Visa Assessment Certificate (CVAC) which has a minimum impairment rating of 30; and
• Other specific circumstances outlined in the Positive Personal Procedural Decision (sections 351 and 501J).

Recent Changes to Ministerial Intervention (2025)

There have been major reforms to the Ministerial Intervention process in 2025.

These changes stem from the High Court’s 2023 decision in Davis v Minister for Immigration, which found that departmental officers did not have the power the make  decisions about MI requests, and only the Minister himself has the power to make such decisions.

Following that ruling, the Minister introduced new Ministerial Instructions on 4 September and 17 September 2025, replacing the previous guidelines from 2016. These new rules:

• Ensure decisions are made only by the Minister, not departmental staff; and
• Set clear criteria for which cases can be referred to the Minister.

Key Effects of the Changes

• Any requests lodged before 12 April 2023 will no longer be considered by the Minister unless it was already being considered — they must be resubmitted under the new criteria.
• Any requests lodged on or after 12 April 2023 but before the new guidelines must meet specific criteria to be eligible for Ministerial consideration.
• This criteria is listed in the Positive Personal Procedural Decision (sections 351 and 501J). It includes but is not limited to circumstances involving serious health issues that cannot be treated overseas, evidence of skills in a skilled occupation, being the parent of a minor Australian child at the time of the request, and other specific circumstances.

In short, the reform introduces a more objective and transparent framework — but also stricter limits on which circumstances the Minister will consider Ministerial Intervention requests.

What If My Ministerial Intervention Request Was Refused?

If your MI request has recently been refused, you may be able to lodge a new request, but only if your case meets at least one of the criteria under Section 13 of the new Ministerial Intervention Guidelines.

If your circumstances satisfies one of these criteria, it can be referred to the Minister, and the Minister may consider it is in the public interest to intervene and grant a visa. The final decision rests with the Minister, including what type of visa may be appropriate if granted.

How Long Does It Take for the Minister to Decide?

There is no set timeframe for how long a Minister will take to make a decision. Because Ministerial Intervention is entirely at the Minister’s discretion, the decision can take weeks, months, or even longer.

Only a small number of requests are ever referred to the Minister, and even fewer result in an intervention. Processing times vary depending on the complexity of the case and the current workload, and the Minister is under no obligation to make a decision within a specific timeframe.

Do You Need a Lawyer for Ministerial Intervention?

While you are not legally required to have legal representation to lodge an MI request, obtaining legal assistance is highly recommended. 

Here’s why:

• Ministerial Intervention cases are complex and highly discretionary
• You must provide detailed evidence of exceptional and compelling circumstances
• A lawyer can help assess whether your situation qualifies under the new criteria and write submissions to address this
• Professional representation can improve the clarity and strength of your submission

Given the technical and legal nature of the process, getting help from a migration lawyer can be invaluable in preparing a strong MI request.

Watch the Full Video:

Ministerial Intervention remains a crucial pathway for those with no other legal avenues left after visa refusals and exhausted appeals. While recent reforms have made the process more structured, they’ve also raised the bar for eligibility.

If you’re considering a Ministerial Intervention request or have been refused, it’s vital to understand the current guidelines and how they apply to your case.

If you found this helpful, make sure to explore more insights on the Work Visa Lawyers blog or contact us if you need assistance lodging a Ministerial Intervention request or managing a pending case.

Talk to an Immigration Lawyer

Author: Shamsiya Mohammadi, Immigration Lawyer

National Innovation Visa Updates

Exceptionally talented individuals such as global researchers, entrepreneurs, innovative investors, athletes, sports professionals and creatives with an internationally recognized record of exceptional achievements in their field may be eligible for the subclass 858 - National Innovation Visa or the NIV.

One of the requirements for the NIV is having a nominator who is an Australian citizen or permanent resident or an Australian organization who has a national reputation in the same field as the applicant.

Expert Australian Commonwealth, State or Territory Government agencies can also nominate for the NIV. 

Currently, only New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia has released the details of their nomination process.

State NIV nomination 

Each state has their different processes and for Victoria, the first step is to engage with  Victorian Government department/agency on your project plan. You can do this by creating a general enquiry on the Live in Melbourne website and submitting your project plan.

If you are competitive and chosen, a Victorian Government department or agency that can support your nomination will identify and refer you. This department or agency will be preparing the nomination documents.

The Victorian NIV nomination program does not require any Registration of Interest (ROI) or application process initiated by the applicant.

New South Wales and South Australia require potential applicants to submit their ROIs and if the applicant is shortlisted, for NSW, they will be invited to submit the full nomination. 

In South Australia, the applicant will be interviewed by an assessment panel of South Australian Government representatives.

If approved for state nomination, the state will then provide the applicant with the competed Form 1000.

Department of Home Affairs – Invitation rounds

The Department of Home Affairs extends invitations monthly according to NIV priority order as listed in Ministerial Directions 112. 

You can read about these priorities here.

According to the information released by the Department, for the period of July – September 2025, they received a total of 1841 EOIs and invited 122 candidates.

From the 122 invitations issued:

• Less than 5 is from Priority 1- Exceptional candidates from any sector who are global experts and recipients of international ‘top of field’ level awards.
• 17 are from Priority 2 - Candidates from any sector nominated on the approved Form 1000 by an expert Australian Commonwealth, State or Territory Government agency
• 84 are from Priority 3 - Candidates with exceptional and outstanding achievements in a Tier One sector (Critical technologies, Renewables and low emission technologies and Health industries)
• 20 are from Priority 4 - Candidates with exceptional and outstanding achievements in a Tier Two sector  (Agri-food and AgTech, Education, Defence Capabilities and Space, Financial Services and FinTech, Infrastructure and Transport and Resources.

By sector:

Tier 1

• 48 invitations were issued for those in Critical Technologies
• 15 from ​Renewables and low emission technologies
• 30 from Health Industries

Tier 2

• Less than 5 from Agri-food and AgTech 
• Less than 5 from Education
• 9 from Defence Capabilities and Space
• Less than 5 from Financial Services and FinTech
• Less than 5 from Infrastructure and Transport
• Less than 5 from Resources

And there were 8 from the Sports and Arts.

If you want to check if you are eligible for the NIV, you can complete our free NIV assessment form here.

You just might be one of the brightest, best and fairest talent Australia is looking for.

189 Invitation Round November 2025

If you are waiting for news about Australia's skilled migration, the 13 November 2025 invitation round has brought massive updates. The Department of Home Affairs has issued 10,000 invitations for the Subclass 189 Skilled Independent visa.

The government’s clear focus is on fixing the housing shortage. To achieve this, they are making it significantly easier for trade workers to secure a visa, while entry standards for other professionals remain high.

Here is our simple analysis of who won, the surprises, and who missed out.

Current Round: 13 November 2025

• Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent) - 10,000 invitations issued.
• Subclass 491 (Family Stream) - 300 invitations issued.
• Total Occupations Invited - 144.

You can view the official invitation round data on the Department of Home Affairs website.

Construction Sector

Australia needs to build more houses. Because of this, the Department is inviting Carpenters, Bricklayers, and many other trades with just 65 points.

Some other occupations invited with 65 points were:

1. Plumber (General) - 65 points
2. Joiner - 65 points
3. Electrician (General) - 65 points
4. Solid Plasterer - 65 points
5. Wall and Floor Tiler - 65 points

65 points is the minimum score. This means if you are a qualified tradesperson with the right age and English skills, you have a very good chance of being invited.

Health & Education

Healthcare and Education remain vital parts of the migration program. Nurses, Doctors, and Teachers are being invited regularly, though the point requirements are slightly higher than for construction.

Key Health & Education Occupations Invited:

1. Registered Nurse (Critical Care and Emergency) - 75 points
2. Registered Nurse (Medical) - 75 points
3. Early Childhood (Pre-primary School) Teacher - 85 points
4. Secondary School Teacher - 75 points
5. Special Needs Teacher - 75 points
6. Special Education Teachers nec - 75 points
7. Physiotherapist - 75 points

While there are many invitations in these sectors, there is also more competition. You generally need a competitive score of at least 75 points to secure an invite.

Some others occupations invited

Most invitations went to the major sectors mentioned above, but there were some interesting surprises in this round.

Other notable occupations Invited:

1. Economist - 85 points
2. Multimedia Specialist - 90 points
3. Musician (Instrumental) - 90 points
4. Marine Biologist - 85 points
5. Botanist - 85 points
6. Tennis Coach - 85 points

Tennis Coaches: Surprisingly, Tennis Coaches received invites again. This is the second round this year that Tennis Coaches have been invited, showing that specific niche jobs are sometimes needed unexpectedly.

Who Missed Out

Even though Education is a priority, University Lecturers were not invited in the November 2025 round. The Department is currently focusing on schools for children (Primary and Secondary), rather than universities.

If you are a University Lecturer, the 189 visa may be difficult to secure right now. You should consider other options, such as the Subclass 190 or 491 visas (State Nomination), or employer sponsorship through the 482 or 186 visas.

Other occupations that didn’t receive any invitations were Accountants and Chefs.

Subclass 491: Family Stream

The 491 Family Stream is still small and competitive.

• Invitations Issued - 300
• Occupations - 36

This visa is designed to help people with eligible family members living in regional Australia.

When will the next 189 invitation round happen?

Invitation rounds are expected to happen quarterly.

If you did not get an invite, don’t panic. The next 189 visa invitation round is expected to be in February or March.

What You Should Do:

• Trades - If you have 65 points, submit your Expression of Interest (EOI) now.
• Professionals - If your job is not on a priority list, try to increase your points. You can improve your English score, add partner points, or gain more work experience.

Need Help?

Visa rules change often. If you are not sure what to do—or if you want to switch from a 189 to a 190 or 491 visa—our team can help you.

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