Victorian State Nomination

The Victorian government has engaged with industry stakeholders to ensure that the state nomination program aligns with current and future workforce needs. This engagement helps shape the targeted industry sectors and ensures that the program supports Victoria’s economic growth.

The message from the Victorian State Government highlights an increase in opportunities for regional Victoria during the 2024-2025 program year.

This year, 2,000 places have been allocated to the Skilled Work Regional (Subclass 491) visa, with the following sectors being prioritized in regional Victoria:

• Hospitality & Tourism
• Digital Economy
• Advanced Manufacturing

Benefits of Regional Victoria
Regional Victoria offers a direct pathway to permanent residence while providing a high quality of life and strong career opportunities. More information on regional living can be found at www.regionalliving.vic.gov.au.

Overview of the Victorian State Nomination Application Process

• Invitation Rounds
  The first invitation round for the new financial year took place in August 2024, with 900 invitations issued and it is expected for invitation rounds to occur every 4-6 weeks. It was confirmed that the invitation process for Victorian state nomination remains highly competitive.
  
• Registration of Interest (ROI) Required
  Submitting a Registration of Interest (ROI) remains a pre-requisite for consideration. After submitting a valid Expression of Interest (EOI), applicants must submit an ROI to the state government. Invitations are issued based on the ROI submitted by candidates.
  
• Priority Sectors
  While Victoria does not adhere to a specific occupation list, all occupations on the Department’s skilled occupation list are eligible. However, priority sectors under the Subclass 190 visa program include:
  • Health
  • Education (including Early Childhood Teachers)
  • Construction
  • Social Services
  • Renewable Energy
    
• Criteria for the Subclass 190 Visa
  Candidates may be located either inside or outside of Australia for state nomination consideration. However, candidates currently in Australia must be living in Victoria, while those outside Australia must demonstrate a commitment to living in Victoria.
  
  The Victorian state government does not require candidates to be employed, nor must they work in their nominated occupation. There are no minimum work experience or work-hour requirements.
  
  However, due to the competitive nature of the Subclass 190 program, candidates who are employed in Victoria in their nominated occupation, and earning at or above the average income level for their profession, will have a higher chance of receiving an invitation.
  
• Criteria for the Subclass 491 Visa
  Candidates may also be located inside or outside of Australia for state nomination consideration. However, candidates in Australia must be living in regional Victoria, and those outside Australia must demonstrate a commitment to settling in Victoria.
  
  For the Subclass 491 visa, candidates must be employed in skilled work with an employer physically located in regional Victoria. Candidates are ineligible for state nomination if they are not employed, working in unskilled employment, or working for an employer outside of regional Victoria.
  
  Currently, the Victorian state government is prioritising overseas candidates with skills in Healthcare, Social Services, and Education (including Early Childhood).
  
  This program is designed to ensure that Victoria attracts the right mix of skilled workers and business migrants who can contribute to the state’s economic development and help address skill shortages.

More Information

Details about eligibility and program dates will be available on Live in Melbourne.

Summary

If you’re considering applying for the Skilled Nominated visa (Subclass 190) through VIC, focusing on priority sectors and ensuring you meet all eligibility criteria is crucial. Given the competitiveness, it’s wise to consider alternative pathways and seek professional advice to maximise your chances of success. Visit Live in Melbourne website for more information.

How Migration Downunder Can Assist You

We believe in straightforward advice, to get you the results.  We will be honest with you about your prospects and what you need to do to improve your chance of selection and eventually achieve your visa.

Let us guide you to achieve your goal of living and working in Australia by finding the best pathway that suits your individual circumstances.