Victoria's 2026–27 Priority Industry Framework for 190 and 491 Visas

Victoria has published its 2026–27 priority industries and occupations for subclass 190 and 491 skilled visa nomination.

Four key industries are identified under the latest Victorian Points Test (VPT) framework: healthcare, education, social assistance and construction.

However, being employed in one of these industries does not automatically qualify you for priority consideration.

Only specified occupations are prioritised, and priority status does not mean faster visa processing or a guaranteed invitation.

The Two Invitation Pathways

Victoria uses two pathways to select applicants:

1. Most Competitive

Applicants across all eligible occupations compete based on their Victorian Points Test (VPT) scores.

2. Priority Industry

Applicants in designated priority occupations are also ranked within their industry or occupation subgroup.

This provides an additional opportunity for consideration, but invitations depend on VPT rankings, competition and available nomination places.

The Four Priority Industries

1. Healthcare

Includes specified medical specialists, Registered Nurses and allied health professionals.

Importantly, Enrolled Nurse (ANZSCO 411411) is not included in the published healthcare priority list. Eligible applicants may still be considered through the Most Competitive pathway.

2. Education

Includes specified secondary school, special education and early childhood teaching occupations.

Early Childhood Teachers have additional requirements for priority consideration.

3. Social Assistance

Includes specified occupations such as Social Worker, Welfare Worker and certain psychologists.

4. Construction

Includes designated construction professionals and trades, such as engineers, carpenters, electricians and plumbers, where listed.

Your specific ANZSCO occupation must appear on Victoria's published priority list to qualify for priority industry consideration.

Additional Requirements for Early Childhood Teachers

Early Childhood (Pre-primary School) Teachers (ANZSCO 241111) seeking priority consideration must have:

• At least Proficient English, such as IELTS 7.0 in each band or an accepted equivalent.
• At least one year of relevant work experience in the nominated occupation.

These requirements apply to priority invitation consideration, in addition to the relevant visa and nomination eligibility criteria.

What About Enrolled Nurses?

Although Enrolled Nurse is not included in Victoria's published healthcare priority list, this does not mean all Enrolled Nurses are excluded from Victorian skilled nomination.

Applicants who meet the relevant subclass 190 or 491 requirements may still compete through the Most Competitive pathway.

What Should Applicants Check Before Applying?

Before submitting your Victorian Registration of Interest (ROI):

1. Confirm your nominated ANZSCO occupation is eligible.
2. Check whether it appears on the 2026–27 priority occupation list.
3. Review your VPT score, English results and skills assessment.
4. Verify any additional occupation-specific requirements.
5. Check the applicable subclass 190 or 491 requirements, particularly if applying from overseas.

Offshore subclass 491 priority arrangements may differ from those for other applicants. Applicants should verify the latest subclass-specific requirements before relying on priority industry status.

Key Takeaways

• Victoria has published priority occupation lists covering healthcare, education, social assistance and construction.
• Only specified occupations qualify for priority consideration.
• Early Childhood Teachers must meet additional English and work experience requirements.
• Enrolled Nurses are not included in the healthcare priority list but may still compete through the general ranking pathway.
• Priority consideration does not guarantee an invitation or faster visa processing.

Is Your Occupation on Victoria's 2026–27 Priority List?

Working in a priority industry does not necessarily mean your occupation qualifies.

An incorrect occupation classification, outdated EOI or misunderstanding of nomination requirements could affect your application prospects.

At Riverwood Migration, our Australian migration lawyers can review your nominated occupation, assess your subclass 190 or 491 eligibility and identify potential risks before you submit your ROI.

Find out where you stand before applying.

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.

Speak with a Riverwood Migration Lawyer

For skilled migration and skills assessment matters, we recommend speaking with Scott Gan, our lawyer specialising in points-tested visas and occupation skills assessments. Book a consultation to discuss your circumstances.

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