The Australian government has announced the country’s permanent Migration Program will remain at 185,000 places as part of its Federal Budget for the 2026–27 financial year.
Confirming a steady and targeted approach to migration, the government allocated 70% of the total number of migration places to Australia’s Skill stream with a continued focus on migrants that are already living in the country. In total, 129,590 places will be granted to onshore applicants with 55,110 allocated to Skilled migrants outside of Australia.
In addition, the Federal Budget highlights that the Australian Government will reform the permanent migration points test to “better identify migrants who drive productivity and long-term prosperity,” potentially favoring people with more Australian skilled work experience, a higher level of qualifications, and a younger age profile.
IAM Member Impact: The policy to allocate more places to migrants already living in the country may impact volumes from traditional traffic lanes to Australia and import shipments into the country.
Source: Inclusive Migration