THE VISA CHANGELOGPTE School Editorial Team

    Australia visa updates.

    What changed. Who it affects. What to check next.

    Official government sourcesLast checked 18 Oct 2026All articles
    Latest changes

    The update log

    3 updates · newest first

    15 Oct 2026Official page updatedLatest
    New South WalesSkilled & state nomination

    NSW updates its subclass 190 skills list

    NSW’s official skills-list page confirms an update for the Skilled Nominated visa (190) only. This is a page-update date—not a confirmed program-opening or invitation date.

    • The list uses ANZSCO unit groups. Your occupation must also be eligible for the relevant visa.
    • Subclass 190 nomination is invitation-only; meeting eligibility does not guarantee selection.
    • NSW’s 491 page currently says applications are closed. Do not assume the 190 list update reopens 491.

    Verified 18 Oct 2026 · Article published 15 Oct 2026

    13 Oct 2026Announced
    VictoriaSkilled & state nomination

    Victoria announces 2026–27 nomination fees and selection information

    Victoria’s 13 October announcement outlines nomination charges and further information about state selection factors. This is state nomination—not a change to the federal migration points test.

    • Registration of Interest: A$60 excluding GST (A$66 including GST).
    • Subclass 190 or 491 nomination application: A$180 excluding GST (A$198 including GST); GST applies when paying from Australia.
    • The nomination fee applies after invitation and submission. The announcement date does not establish a program-opening date.

    Verified 18 Oct 2026 · Article published 14 Oct 2026

    2 Oct 2026Effective from
    Australia-wideStudent & guardianGraduate (485)Partner & family

    New Student and Student Guardian application rules take effect

    From 2 October, rules change for onshore Student (500) and Student Guardian (590) applications and including family members. Exemptions and transitional rules matter.

    • Most temporary visa holders must apply offshore unless an exemption applies; check the official eligibility guidance for your current visa.
    • Where offshore lodgement is required, applicants must also be outside Australia at grant. Offshore applications do not create an associated Bridging visa.
    • Applications lodged before 2 October continue under the previous rules. New restrictions on including family members have separate exemptions.

    Verified 18 Oct 2026 · Article published 15 Oct 2026

    General educational information, not migration advice. Rules and exceptions can change. Check the linked government guidance for your circumstances; eligibility does not guarantee an invitation or visa.