The Australian Federal Government plans to slash Western Australia’s State Nominated Migration Program (SNMP) quota from 5,000 to 3,400 (a 30% cut). WA Premier Roger Cook has formally urged a rethink, warning the move could slow economic growth and worsen housing construction shortages. As a leading Australian immigration law firm, we break down the key impacts and actionable strategies for applicants.

I. Why the Controversy? WA’s "Unique Needs" vs. Federal Policy

Premier Cook highlights WA’s critical labor gaps:

• The planned AUKUS base (southern Perth) needs skilled workers.
• Federal housing targets rely on construction labor amid shortages.

Nationally, the federal government aims to cut total skilled migration quotas from 26,260 (2024–25) to 20,350 (2025–26)—a move amid opposition criticism of "uncontrolled migration" in recent years. Notably, Australia’s total 2025–26 migration quota stays stable (185,000–190,000), with skilled migration now making up 71% (≈132,200–135,000 spots). The shift is about how quotas are split, not overall shrinkage.

II. Will Other States’ Quotas Be Cut Too?

Mostly unlikely—here’s why:

• No "zero-sum" guarantee: The federal government hasn’t said extra WA quotas would come from other states. Cross-state cuts would spark backlash, making this politically risky.
• State nomination totals stay steady: 2025–26’s 190/491 visa quota remains 40,000 (18,000 for 190, 22,000 for 491)—same as last year. Quotas are being reallocated, not cut.
• Regional areas get priority: 60% of state nomination quotas go to regional areas (e.g., Queensland, South Australia). These states may even gain more spots.

III. WA’s Key Preferences for 2025–26

WA’s selection focus won’t change—target these if applying:

• 4 priority industries: High invitation rates for roles in
  • building and construction;
  • healthcare and social assistance;
  • hospitality and tourism;
  • education and training.Example: Electricians (341111) get invites at 65 points; Construction Project Managers (133111) at 70 points.
• Construction/engineering roles: AUKUS and housing demand make these "golden track" occupations (e.g., Civil Engineers 233211). Some 190 visa applicants here skip the local Job Offer requirement.
• Local residents first: Priority order:WA locals > other state residents > overseas applicants.WA university graduates: 2 years of full-time study = no work experience/Job Offer needed (IELTS 6 per band minimum).

IV. 3 Quick Strategies for Applicants

• Finish skills assessment fast: Priority industries (construction, healthcare) take 1–3 months. Updated IT occupation rules mean lawyer checks help avoid delays.
• Diversify applications: If eligible, apply to WA + regional states (e.g., SA/Tasmania for construction roles; Queensland for healthcare).
• Boost scores/residency:
  • IELTS 7 (10 points), regional study (5 points), spouse skills (5 points) add up.
  • Move to WA 6 months early (proves local ties).
  • Employer-sponsored visas (186/482) have extra quotas (45,000 total) – use as a backup.

Conclusion

WA’s quota cut is a federal-state balance, not a skilled migration shrinkage. Focus on WA’s priorities, prep early, and diversify applications to maximize success.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at Riverwood Migration (Email: enquiry@riverwoodmigration.com), or book a consultation. We are committed to providing transparent and professional migration services to help you secure your visa and achieve your goal of moving to Australia.

Disclaimer: Based on policies/data pre-October 2025. Australian immigration rules may change—follow official updates.

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