August brought several important developments across Australia’s migration system, affecting skilled migrants, state nomination applicants, international students and families.

As we move into September, there are also some important deadlines and potential policy changes to keep an eye on.

Here’s what you need to know.

‍

Skilled Visa Processing: Onshore Position Matters

Australia’s skilled visa processing priorities under Ministerial Direction 119 are now in effect.

The framework considers factors including whether an applicant is onshore or offshore, as well as whether their occupation falls within a priority sector.

For many skilled migrants already in Australia, this makes your current visa, location and timing increasingly relevant when planning your next application.

What it means: Your migration strategy may need to consider not only what visa you apply for, but also when and where you apply.

‍

Tasmania’s 2026–27 Program Is Underway

Tasmania’s 2026–27 skilled migration program has commenced, with:

• 1,250 places for Subclass 190
• 800 places for Subclass 491

Invitation rounds are underway, but applicants should also be aware that Migration Tasmania can conduct checks after a nomination has been approved.

A nomination may be withdrawn if false or misleading information is identified. Concerns may also arise if a nominee leaves their Tasmanian employment and relocates interstate immediately after nomination, where this suggests they did not genuinely intend to settle in Tasmania or continue working in their declared industry.

If a nomination is withdrawn, Migration Tasmania will advise the Department of Home Affairs, which may result in the visa application being refused.

What it means: Getting nominated is not the end of the process. Your claims must be genuine, supported by evidence and consistent with the intentions presented in your application.

‍

VETASSESS Fees Increase on 9 September

One of the most immediate dates to know this month is 9 September 2026.

VETASSESS has confirmed fee increases across a range of professional skills assessment services. Applications received before the new fees take effect will be charged under the current fee structure.

If a VETASSESS skills assessment is already part of your migration plan, now is a good time to check whether you are ready to proceed.

‍

WA School Fee Changes Are Coming

Families studying or planning to study in Western Australia should also be aware of changes coming later this year.

From 1 December 2026, dependent children of international students undertaking a Master by Coursework will no longer be eligible for the existing school fee waiver under the new arrangements.

Dependants of Master by Research and PhD students will continue to be eligible.

Transitional arrangements are available for eligible Master by Coursework families before the change takes effect, so timing may be particularly important for families with school-aged children.

‍

What Are We Watching in September?

Further changes affecting Student Visas and temporary migration have recently been reported.

These include possible restrictions affecting Student Visa dependants and certain onshore study pathways.

However, these reported measures are not confirmed policy as at 1 September 2026.

If you are planning a Student Visa, course change or family application, this is an area worth watching closely over the coming weeks.

‍

The Bigger Picture

The August updates point to one clear theme: timing matters.

Your current visa, whether you are onshore or offshore, upcoming deadlines and changes to individual migration programs can all influence your available options.

Knowing what has changed is important. Understanding what those changes mean for your own migration pathway is even more important.

‍

Speak with a Riverwood Migration Lawyer

As a regulated Australian migration law practice, Riverwood Migration provides precise, personalised advice on visa strategy, compliance, and application preparation. Speak with our expert legal team. Book a consultation to discuss your circumstances.

The content of this article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration law is complex and subject to change. The information provided may not reflect the most current legal developments. For advice specific to your circumstances, please consult a registered Australian migration lawyer. For full terms governing use of this website and its content, please refer to our Website Terms and Conditions.

‍

Stay Informed on Australian Immigration Law

• YouTube: Johnny Kong | Migration Lawyer
• Instagram: @johnny_migrationlawyer
• Facebook: Riverwood Migration
• TikTok: @johnny_migrationlawyer
• Linktree: linktr.ee/johnny_lawyer