The Australian Capital Territory has released the results of its latest Canberra Matrix Invitation Round held on 15 September 2025. This invitation round provided important updates for skilled migrants seeking state nomination through the Australia Subclass 190 and 491 visas.
Each month, ACT operates within a fixed number of nomination places, allocated on a pro-rata basis from the annual program. Invitations are extended to the highest-ranked candidates in each occupation. The selection process depends on several factors, including monthly allocation, the date and time of Matrix submission, occupation caps, and demand within critical sectors.
The ACT authorities have emphasised that the minimum ranking score serves only as an indicator and does not guarantee an invitation. Candidates with active applications already in the system or those who have previously received ACT nominations are not eligible for new invitations. Priority continues to be given to critical sector occupations, although personal circumstances, such as visa expiry, do not influence the selection process.
Canberra Residents Are Strongly Participating in Critical Skill Occupations
For Canberra residents, the round reflected significant activity across various nomination categories..
- Small Business Owners: 9 invitations for subclass 190 minimum score 115 and 18 invitations for subclass 491 minimum score 110.
- 457/482 Visa Holders: 41 invitations under subclass 190 and 16 under subclass 491.
- Critical Skill Occupations: The highest numbers were seen here with 167 invitations under subclass 190 and 225 under subclass 491 reaffirming the focus of ACT on the essential needs of workforce.
Opportunities Remain in Critical Sectors For Overseas Applicants
For overseas-based applicants, invitations were limited but targeted at high-demand occupations.
- Critical Skill Occupations: 18 invitations under subclass 190 and 65 under subclass 491.
This reflects ACT’s balanced approach of supporting its local workforce while still welcoming overseas professionals in sectors where demand remains strong.
Places Still Available For Interim Allocations 2025-2026
For the 2025-26 program year, the ACT has been allocated:
- 85 places for Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) visa
- 80 places for Skilled Work Regional (subclass 491) visa
As of 15 September 2025, 71 applications have been approved, 50 under subclass 190 and 21 under subclass 491. Fifteen applications were refused, resulting in an overall refusal rate of 12%. Approvals were overwhelmingly granted to ACT residents while overseas applicants accounted for just 6%.
Following this round, the remaining allocation stands at 94 nomination places. This included 35 for subclass 190 and 59 for subclass 491.
What This Means for Applicants
The September round highlights the ongoing competitiveness of the Canberra Matrix System, especially in critical occupations. With demand-driven selection and limited allocations, achieving a high ranking score remains vital for success. Applicants are also reminded that ACT does not respond to individual ranking inquiries or prioritise based on personal timelines.
For skilled migrants in critical sectors, the ACT nomination pathway continues to present valuable opportunities. However, preparation, timely submission and alignment with occupational demand remain important for getting an invitation.
Consultants at Croyez Immigration help in getting through this competitive system by assessing the profile and guiding applicants in boosting their ranking. This ensures the application aligns with ACT’s targeted occupations. For those aiming for an ACT nomination under subclass 190 or 491, our customised strategies will help in maximising the chances.
