State-by-State Skilled Migration

Victoria

Victoria remains a major destination for skilled professionals because of its large economy, diverse industries, and employment opportunities.

Potential areas of demand:

• Healthcare
• Education
• Engineering
• Technology
• Professional services

Melbourne’s popularity also means competition can be strong. Applicants should therefore look beyond general eligibility and consider how closely their profile matches Victoria’s current nomination priorities.

New South Wales

NSW has a broad and diverse economy, with employment opportunities spanning professional, technical, and essential service industries.

Potential areas of opportunity:

• Healthcare
• Engineering
• IT
• Construction
• Education
• Professional services

Because NSW attracts a substantial number of skilled migrants, applicants should pay close attention to current nomination requirements and selection processes.

Western Australia

Western Australia continues to be an important destination for skilled workers, supported by demand across sectors such as:

• Mining
• Engineering
• Construction
• Healthcare
• Infrastructure
• Skilled trades

Perth also offers a combination of employment opportunities and lifestyle advantages that may appeal to skilled migrants. For applicants whose occupation aligns with Western Australia’s workforce needs, the state may be worth including in their migration planning.

Queensland

Queensland’s population growth, infrastructure development, and expanding economy continue to generate demand for skilled workers.

Industries of interest:

• Healthcare
• Engineering
• Construction
• Education
• Trades
• Infrastructure

Applicants who are open to regional Queensland may also wish to investigate opportunities beyond Brisbane.

South Australia

South Australia provides another option for skilled migrants seeking an alternative to Australia’s largest states. Adelaide and regional areas support a range of industries, and the state can provide opportunities for applicants whose skills match local workforce priorities.

South Australia may be particularly attractive to people looking for a different lifestyle or who are open to regional settlement.

Tasmania

Tasmania has its own workforce requirements and uses skilled migration to support industries experiencing labour shortages.

Potential areas of employment:

• Healthcare
• Education
• Construction
• Hospitality
• Essential services

Tasmania can be worth considering for applicants who genuinely intend to live and work in the state and who meet its current nomination requirements.

Northern Territory

The Northern Territory has a smaller population and a distinct labour market, creating workforce requirements that differ from those of Australia’s larger states.

Skilled migrants whose occupations match current NT priorities may wish to explore available nomination pathways. However, applicants should carefully review the territory’s current requirements, particularly around eligibility and settlement commitments.

Australian Capital Territory

The ACT’s skilled migration priorities are influenced by the employment and economic needs of Canberra. Opportunities can therefore differ from those available in larger states such as NSW or Victoria.

Applicants interested in ACT nomination should assess their occupation, employment circumstances, and other eligibility factors against the latest ACT requirements.

Which State May Suit Your Occupation?

There is no universal answer to the question “Which Australian state is best for skilled migration?” The answer depends on your individual circumstances.

Note: This table is a general guide, not an indication that these states will nominate every applicant in these occupations. Current occupation lists, eligibility criteria, nomination allocations, and selection processes should be checked before making a decision.