Australia's resources sector is entering a new phase of growth, creating significant opportunities for skilled Mining Engineers seeking to live and work in the country. As state governments actively nominate professionals to address critical workforce shortages, the pathway to Australian permanent residency for qualified engineers has become more defined than ever. This guide outlines the current landscape, state-specific opportunities, and essential steps for a successful migration application in 2026.

Policy Context: Skilled Migration and State Priorities

The Australian government's skilled migration program remains a key tool for addressing national skill shortages. For the 2025-26 program year, a significant portion of the permanent migration places are allocated to the Skilled Stream, highlighting a continued focus on attracting global talent.

A critical development is the active role of states and territories through their nomination programs. These programs allow regions to sponsor applicants in occupations that meet their specific economic needs, providing a crucial pathway for skilled workers. For Mining Engineers, this means eligibility for visas such as the Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) and Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491), which offer additional points and a route to permanent residency.

National Demand: A Profession on the Shortage List

The demand for Mining Engineers is nationally recognised. The occupation is formally listed on the Australian government's 2025 Occupation Shortage List (OSL), identifying it as a field facing a persistent skills gap. This official designation underscores the profession's priority status within the migration system and the broader economy.

State-Specific Pathways and Opportunities

Proactive state nomination strategies are central to the current migration landscape. Several resource-rich states have implemented targeted programs where Mining Engineers are well-placed to receive invitations.

• Western Australia (WA): As a mining powerhouse, WA's State Nominated Migration Program (SNMP) is a major channel for skilled workers. The state has received its full allocation of nomination places for 2025-26 and has begun issuing monthly invitation rounds. The program prioritises occupations that support key industries like mining and infrastructure, making it a highly relevant pathway for engineers.
• Queensland (QLD): Queensland's skilled migration program is designed to meet local industry shortages. The state government regularly updates its skilled occupation lists and nomination criteria, with engineering professionals often in focus due to the state's significant resources and energy projects.
• South Australia (SA): SA offers nomination pathways for both the subclass 190 and 491 visas. The subclass 491 visa, in particular, provides a regional pathway where a state nomination grants an additional 15 points toward the points test. Applicants must meet standard requirements including a valid skills assessment and competent English.
• New South Wales (NSW): NSW has opened its 2025-26 skilled migration program, accepting applications from both onshore and offshore candidates. To be considered for a nomination, applicants must have an occupation on the state's skilled list, meet English language requirements (typically IELTS 6.0 or equivalent), and have a valid skills assessment.

The Essential Step: Skills Assessment by Engineers Australia

A positive skills assessment from Engineers Australia (EA) is a mandatory requirement for all migration pathways. This process evaluates whether an applicant's qualifications and experience are comparable to Australian engineering standards. Key requirements include demonstrating English language proficiency and, for those with non-accredited degrees, submitting a comprehensive Competency Demonstration Report (CDR).

Strategic Application Advice

Success in the competitive state nomination pools requires a strategic approach:

1. Maximise Your Points Score: Beyond the mandatory skills assessment, focus on achieving superior English test results, claiming relevant skilled work experience, and obtaining any eligible qualifications to boost your Expression of Interest (EOI) points.
2. Target Your State nomination: Carefully research the specific occupation lists and eligibility criteria for the state you wish to be nominated by. Meeting additional requirements, such as a job offer or prior residency in that state, can significantly strengthen your application.
3. Prepare for Regional Opportunities: The subclass 491 visa is a prominent pathway, often with lower score thresholds. Be open to opportunities in designated regional areas, which can provide a faster route to permanent residency.

How Riverwood Migration Can Assist You

Navigating the complexities of skills assessment, state nomination criteria, and visa application requires expert guidance. At Riverwood Migration, our registered migration agents provide:

• Personalised Pathway Assessment: Evaluating your profile against the latest state and federal immigration criteria.
• End-to-End Application Management: Guiding you from the initial skills assessment through to the final visa lodgement.
• Strategic State Nomination Advice: Helping you identify and apply for the state nomination program that best aligns with your occupation and background.

With its strong industry demand and multiple state-sponsored pathways, the Mining Engineer occupation represents a viable and promising route to building a future in Australia. A successful application hinges on precise preparation, a strategic approach to state nomination, and compliance with all regulatory requirements.

Contact Riverwood Migration today for a professional consultation to assess your eligibility and develop a clear migration strategy.

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