Budget keeps 185,000 permanent places and favours onshore applicants

Reported on 12 May 2026 · General

Media report (not official): SBS reports the 2026-27 Budget holds the permanent program at 185,000 places with a skilled majority and gives priority to applicants already in Australia. Other reported measures include faster skills recognition for trades, expanded working holiday ballots and extra funding for student visa scrutiny.

Media report (not official): SBS reports the 2026-27 Budget holds the permanent program at 185,000 places with a skilled majority and gives priority to applicants already in Australia. Other reported measures include faster skills recognition for trades, expanded working holiday ballots and extra funding for student visa scrutiny.

This is a media report, not an official government announcement. Rules only change when the Department of Home Affairs, the Minister or new legislation says so. If this story could affect your visa, speak to our registered migration agents and lawyers before you act.

Reported by: SBS News