Australia PR Points Test Reform 2026–27: What's Changing, When, and What You Should Do Right Now
What the 2026–27 Budget Officially Confirmed
Source: 2026–27 Federal Budget papers, announced 12 May 2026. Department of Home Affairs: Review of the Points Test.
On 12 May 2026, the Australian Government released the 2026–27 Federal Budget, delivering the first major commitment to overhaul the skilled migration points test in over a decade.
“The Government will reform the permanent migration points test to better identify migrants who drive productivity and Australia's long-term prosperity. The points test will be optimised to select better educated, higher-skilled and younger migrants overall.”
— 2026–27 Federal Budget papers, 12 May 2026
The Reform Direction
ConfirmedThe points test will be redesigned to favour:
- • Younger applicants
- • Migrants with higher levels of education
- • Higher-skilled professionals
- • People who can strongly contribute to the economy long-term
While the Government describes this as an “optimisation” rather than a tear-down, independent experts anticipate some fairly significant structural shifts.
The Reform Timeline
Confirmed- • Budget announcement: 12 May 2026
- • Consultation paper: Initially slated for mid-2026
- • Draft legislation: Expected December 2026
- • Proposed implementation: 1 July 2027
No start date has been legislated yet.
Transitional Protection
ExpectedHistorically, applicants who receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) beforea new test commences have their visa applications assessed under the old rules. While this isn't explicitly legislated for this reform yet, standard administrative practice strongly suggests your points score will be protected if you're invited before the new rules kick in.
Current System Status
Still In EffectThe current Schedule 6D points test remains fully operational as of August 2026. The 65-point minimum is unchanged. All existing point categories and values are unchanged. Existing Expressions of Interest (EOIs) in the SkillSelect pool remain valid.
2026–27 Migration Programme
The Government has confirmed the 2026–27 permanent migration programme will be maintained at 185,000 places, unchanged from the previous year. Over 70% of these places (132,240) are allocated to the Skilled stream. They are also prioritising onshore applicants, dedicating 129,590 places onshore across skilled and family streams, while net overseas migration continues to normalise from its 2022–23 peak.
The Reform Timeline: Key Dates
Migration Strategy Released
The Government formally committed to reviewing the points test for the first time since 2012.
Home Affairs Discussion Paper
The Department of Home Affairs released a discussion paper inviting public submissions on how the system should change.
Submission Period Closed
The Government began reviewing industry feedback alongside independent research from bodies like the Grattan Institute.
2026–27 Federal Budget
Reform officially confirmed by Treasurer Jim Chalmers. The Budget papers commit to optimising the points test to select "better educated, higher-skilled and younger migrants overall."
Consultation Paper
A consultation paper was initially slated for release around June 2026 for industry and public comment. This is when specific proposed changes usually become clearer. Keep an eye on immi.homeaffairs.gov.au for updates.
Draft Legislation
Draft legislation is expected to be introduced to parliament. This is the moment specific point values and changes will be locked into law.
Proposed Implementation
This is the proposed implementation date for the new points test. Because no start date has been legislated yet, treat this as a strong guide rather than a guarantee.
Why does this timeline matter to you?
Based on how migration reforms normally work, any EOI that receives an invitation before the new test commences (proposed 1 July 2027) will likely be assessed under the current Schedule 6D rules. If you're hovering around 65 points right now, you might want to consider lodging your EOI before the reform takes effect. Check out our SkillSelect and EOI guide to see how the invitation process actually works.
What Is Proposed: Ideas from Independent Research
⚠ Everything in this section is PROPOSED
These potential changes are based on independent think-tank research (like the Grattan Institute) and submissions to the Government's April 2024 discussion paper. None of these changes are law as of August 2026. We'll update this section the moment draft legislation drops. Always double-check the latest facts at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au.
Minimum Points Threshold: Recommended Increase to 70 Proposed
Independent research bodies have strongly recommended that the Government raise the minimum points threshold from 65 to 70 points to better reflect Australia's competitive skilled migration landscape.
| Current Score | Under 65-pt Minimum | Under Proposed 70-pt Minimum |
|---|---|---|
| 63 points | Below threshold | Below threshold |
| 65 points | Eligible to lodge EOI | Below threshold (if raised) |
| 67 points | Eligible to lodge EOI | Below threshold (if raised) |
| 70 points | Eligible to lodge EOI | Eligible to lodge EOI |
| 75+ points | Eligible to lodge EOI | Eligible to lodge EOI |
If your current score is 65–69 and the Government does choose to raise the minimum to 70, you would lose eligibility to submit an EOI under a new test. Consider lodging your EOI now if you already have at least 65 points. Historically, EOIs lodged and invited before new laws take effect receive transitional protection. Calculate your accurate score →
Income-Based Points: Rewarding High Salary Proposed
One of the biggest structural changes being floated is the introduction of salary-based points, a feature entirely missing from the current Schedule 6D rulebook. Independent recommendations suggest applicants earning above the Specialist Skills Income Threshold (SSIT) might receive a healthy points boost under the new system.
Exact point values and salary brackets haven't been published. The Government's upcoming consultation paper and draft legislation will eventually settle the specific numbers.
Below Income Thresholds
Lower-tier earnings
Unlikely to receive salary bonus points under the proposed reform models.
Minimal impactMiddle-Tier Salary
Between core and specialist thresholds
May receive some income consideration, but exact treatment won't be clear until draft legislation.
Watch for updatesAbove the SSIT
Specialist Skills Income Threshold
Research suggests this group would receive significant bonus points as objective evidence of highly demanded skills.
Expected to benefitThese salary ideas are purely based on industry analysis and recommendations. No point values have been confirmed by Home Affairs. Please don't make major employment or salary decisions based on unconfirmed reform proposals. Have a chat with a registered migration agent if you need advice specific to your career.
Points Categories Recommended for Phasing Out Proposed
Reviews of the points system have highlighted several categories as "point-stacking" incentives that don't necessarily reflect a migrant's real alignment with Australia's labour market needs. Independent experts recommend removing these entirely.
| Category | Current Points | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Professional Year in Australia (Part 6D.6) | 5 pts | Recommended Removal |
| Australian Study Requirement (Part 6D.8) | 5 pts | Recommended Removal |
| Study in Designated Regional Area (Part 6D.10) | 5 pts | Recommended Removal |
⚠ Professional Year and Australian Study Strategies
If you're thinking about investing AUD $10,000–$15,000 into a Professional Year programme just to gain 5 points, weigh this choice carefully. Those 5 points might not exist in a new system. Many experts suggest you might be better off directing that effort toward English test preparation: Superior English is highly valued under the current rules and is expected to stay highly valued. See how to increase your PR points.
Categories Expected to Receive Greater Weighting Proposed
Age : Favouring Younger Applicants
The Government has explicitly stated the new test will select “younger migrants overall.” Applicants in the 25–32 age bracket (who currently receive 30 points) are expected to benefit most from this shift. If you are aged 40–44, you might find the reformed system a little more challenging.
English Proficiency: Superior English Stays Strong
Superior English (IELTS 8.0 / PTE 79) is expected to carry even greater relative weight. The Government consistently highlights strong English skills as a priority. Bumping your score from Proficient to Superior gives you an extra 10 points right now, and it's a solid move to future-proof your application.
Occupation-Matching Priority System Proposed
One interesting shift proposed in the reviews is moving away from just looking at “who has the highest total score” towards “who fills the gap we actually need right now.”
Under the Current System
An accountant with 100 points might get an invite before a registered nurse with 70 points, simply because invitations heavily favour pure point totals within broad groups.
Under the Proposed System
A registered nurse with 70 points might receive an invitation before an accountant with 100 points, as nursing aligns directly with Australia's urgent workforce needs.
Sectors the Government has already confirmed they are prioritising:
- • The care economy (nursing, aged care, disability support)
- • Renewables and clean energy
- • Digital and tech (ICT)
- • Construction
This kind of targeted matching is already partially happening. Following a 2024 update, healthcare and teaching occupations are generally invited first during subclass 189 selection rounds, regardless of whether someone in another occupation has higher points.
Who Benefits From the Reform: And Who Faces More Competition
Expected to Benefit
- ✓ Applicants aged 25–32
- ✓ Healthcare and teaching professionals
- ✓ Those earning highly competitive salaries in their field
- ✓ Applicants with Superior English
- ✓ Highly skilled tradespeople in construction
Moderate or Uncertain Impact
- → Applicants currently at 85–95 points with high-demand occupations
- → IT professionals (digital sector is prized, but highly competitive)
- → Applicants considering upgrading from Proficient to Superior English
- → Mid-career professionals aged 33–39
- → Engineers (will likely depend heavily on your specific specialty and salary)
May Face Greater Competition
- ✗ Applicants aged 40–44
- ✗ Applicants sitting right at 65–69 points (if the minimum is increased)
- ✗ Anyone relying heavily on Professional Year or Australian study bonus points
- ✗ Oversubscribed fields like accounting or generic business occupations
- ✗ Applicants holding only Competent English (IELTS 6.0)
If you're over 40, it might be worth exploring employer-sponsored alternatives rather than relying solely on the points-tested subclass 189 visa. Jump into our calculator to get a realistic view of your current score before changing your plans.
Transitional Protection for Existing EOIs
If you already have an EOI in the SkillSelect pool, this is the most actionable information for you.
Expected Protection: Invitation Before 1 July 2027
Based on historical administrative precedent, if you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) BEFORE the new test commences (proposed 1 July 2027), your visa application should be assessed under the current Schedule 6D rules, regardless of when you actually lodge the visa. Getting that invitation effectively locks in the current rules for you.
Scenario 1
Invited Before 1 July 2027
Your visa application is processed under the current Schedule 6D. Your current points score is protected. There's nothing more you need to do except lodge a great visa application.
Protected under current rulesScenario 2
EOI in Pool, Not Yet Invited
Your EOI will likely be re-scored automatically when the new test takes effect. If your new score drops below a potentially raised minimum, you might lose your eligibility. It's wise to review your strategy before July 2027.
Review your positionScenario 3
Haven't Submitted an EOI
You have the most flexibility. You can lodge an EOI now (if you have the 65 points) to aim for that transitional protection, or wait and see the new rules. A registered migration agent can help you figure out the best timing.
Strategy depends on your profile⚠ Important Caveat
The transitional arrangements described above are based on how Home Affairs usually handles major changes, they are not yet legally confirmed for this specific reform. The exact treatment of EOIs sitting in the pool during the transition will be clarified closer to the time. Consult a MARA-registered migration agent for advice tailored to your life, and verify updates at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au.
What You Should Do Right Now: Actionable Steps by Score
Here is some practical guidance based on your current score under Schedule 6D. This is general strategy reviewed by migration practitioners, not formal legal advice.
If Your Score Is 65–69 Points
Consider lodging your EOI nowAction: Don't put off lodging your EOI
If you currently hit the 65-point mark, putting your EOI in under the current system gives you a chance to secure transitional protection before any proposed threshold increases occur.
- • Double-check your score, many applicants mistakenly overcount by 5 to 10 points
- • Make sure your skills assessment is active and won't expire before July 2027
- • Chat to a MARA agent about whether submitting an EOI makes sense for you right now
- • Be careful: Think twice before paying for a Professional Year or extra study purely to grab 5 points, as those categories might not survive the reform
If Your Score Is 70–84 Points
Optimise English and look at state nomination- • If you're sitting at Proficient English, strongly consider pushing for Superior (IELTS 8.0 / PTE 79). It adds 10 points and sets you up brilliantly for both the current and proposed systems
- • Look into state nomination (190) or regional sponsorship (491) to boost your score by 5 or 15 points
- • Lodge your EOI under the current rules, you'll be protected if you score an invite before the new laws kick in
If Your Score Is 85–94 Points
Your position is strong under both systems- • Applicants with 85+ points are generally sitting comfortably under the current system
- • Under the proposed changes, having 85+ points with Superior English and a needed occupation is a top-tier profile
- • Make sure you've maxed out your English score to Superior
- • If you haven't lodged your EOI yet, you probably should, your score is likely very competitive
If Your Score Is 95+ Points
Highly competitive, get your EOI in- • You are sitting in the top bracket for both current and proposed systems
- • Holding 95+ points with an occupation on the MLTSSL gives you a very strong chance of invitation under the current rules before July 2027
- • Ensure your skills assessment and English test results aren't close to expiring
- • Your profile is exactly the kind the reform is designed to attract, so you're in a great spot either way
Why Is the Points Test Being Reformed?
The current points test hasn't had a proper overhaul since 2012. It was built for a post-Global Financial Crisis labour market that looks very different to Australia's economy today.
Problem 1: The "Point-Stacking" Issue
Experts criticise the current system for rewarding "point-stacking", grabbing extra points from categories like the Professional Year without actually boosting a migrant's employability. Right now, someone who does a Professional Year purely for the 5 points gets a higher score than someone who doesn't, even if they aren't actually more valuable to the Australian workforce.
Problem 2: Misalignment with Workforce Needs
Under the current rules, someone in an oversupplied occupation (like accounting) competes on the exact same points scale as someone in a critical shortage occupation (like nursing). The Government wants to introduce better workforce alignment, ensuring sectors like the care economy, construction, and renewables get priority.
Problem 3: Missing the Salary Signal
The 2012 test ignores salary altogether, yet an applicant's salary is one of the clearest signs that their skills are genuinely in demand. Today, a software engineer earning AUD $180,000 and one earning AUD $75,000 are scored identically. Independent reviews suggest salary-based points are the best way to fix this gap.
The Government's View
The Government is treating this reform as a productivity measure. The 2026–27 Federal Budget papers explicitly say the system needs to identify migrants who “drive productivity and Australia's long-term prosperity.” The formal push started with the December 2023 Migration Strategy, and heavily relies on independent research from bodies like the Grattan Institute.
Frequently Asked Questions, 2026 Points Test Reform
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the points test reform confirmed?
When will the new points test start?
Will my existing EOI be affected?
Will the 65-point minimum increase?
Will Professional Year points be removed?
Should I do a Professional Year before the new test?
How does the new salary-based points system work?
I have 85 points. Should I lodge my EOI now?
Related Guides
How the Current Points Test Works
A complete guide to Schedule 6D, all 13 categories and current values.
Read guide →How to Increase Your PR Points
Tips to maximise your score under the current system while it's still running.
Read guide →Subclass 189 Visa: Complete Guide
The points-tested permanent visa that will be most affected by the reform.
Read guide →SkillSelect and EOI Explained
How to lodge your EOI and what actually happens in invitation rounds.
Read guide →Calculate Your Score Under the Current System
The current Schedule 6D points test is still running. Calculate your score right now to see where your occupation stands before the reform hits.
Calculate My Current Score →This guide provides general information only and doesn't constitute migration or legal advice. Information about proposed reforms is based on government announcements, Budget papers, and independent research as of August 2026. Proposed changes are not legislated and could change following public consultation. The current Schedule 6D of the Migration Regulations 1994 remains fully in effect. Always verify the latest updates at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au or chat to a MARA-registered migration agent before making any big application decisions.