ACT State Nomination Update 2026
ACT State Nomination Update: What Skilled Visa Applicants Need to Know for 2026-27
The ACT Government has released a number of updates regarding its state nomination program for the 2026-27 financial year. While nomination allocations from the Australian Government are yet to be finalised, ACT Migration has provided important information about upcoming invitation rounds, changes to the Canberra Matrix system, and updates to nomination guidelines.
Here’s a summary of the key developments.
First ACT Invitation Round Scheduled for October
Although the ACT is still awaiting confirmation of its nomination allocation for 2026-27, it has decided to proceed with planning invitation rounds to provide continuity for applicants.
The first invitation round of the program year is expected to take place during the week commencing 12 October 2026. Additional invitation rounds have been tentatively scheduled for the remainder of the year, however these dates may change once the ACT receives its final allocation of nomination places.
For skilled migrants seeking ACT nomination, this means activity in the program is expected to resume shortly, despite ongoing uncertainty around allocation numbers.
New ACT Migration Portal Now Fully Operational
New ACT Migration Portal Now Fully OperationalThe ACT Migration Application Portal has now been in operation since 30 July 2026.
According to ACT Migration, the transition to the new system has been largely successful, although a number of agents and applicants have reported functionality issues and suggested improvements. ACT Migration has confirmed that feedback is being actively reviewed and that one of the benefits of the new platform is the ability to make ongoing improvements more efficiently.
The department has indicated it will continue monitoring portal performance, security and user experience, with further updates and enhancements expected over time.
Warning About Duplicate Canberra Matrix Payments
ACT Migration has become aware of a small number of duplicate payments being made for Canberra Matrix submissions.
The issue appears to be linked to delays between payment being received and the portal updating the application status to “Submitted”. ACT Migration has advised that this delay can be normal and may take several days.
Applicants and agents are therefore encouraged not to make a second payment simply because their Canberra Matrix has not immediately updated. Instead, they should contact ACT Migration to confirm receipt of payment before taking any further action.
Clarification to Canberra Matrix Submission Rules
A minor update has been made to the ACT Nomination Guidelines following feedback from migration agents.
The clarification relates to the number of Canberra Matrix submissions an applicant may hold at any one time.
Under the updated guidelines, applicants can:
- Hold up to two active Canberra Matrix submissions per occupation
- Nominate up to four separate occupations
- Hold submissions across either the Subclass 190 or Subclass 491 pathways, or a combination of both
This means an eligible applicant could potentially hold up to eight active Canberra Matrix submissions simultaneously, provided all eligibility requirements are met.
The update does not represent a policy change but provides clearer guidance on how existing rules are intended to operate.
ACT Occupation List Still Under Review
The ACT has confirmed that it is still finalising its occupation list for the 2026-27 program year.
Officials have stated that delays in receiving confirmation of nomination allocations have impacted the timing of the review process. As a result, the updated occupation list has not yet been released.
Prospective applicants should continue monitoring ACT Migration announcements for further information regarding eligible occupations and nomination opportunities.
Final Thoughts
While the ACT’s nomination allocation remains uncertain, these updates provide some reassurance that the program is progressing. The scheduled October invitation round, clarification of Canberra Matrix rules, and continued development of the migration portal indicate that ACT Migration is preparing for a more active program year ahead.
Applicants considering ACT nomination should ensure their Canberra Matrix is up to date and keep a close eye on future announcements regarding invitation rounds, occupation lists and nomination allocations.
