What are the estimated occupation ceilings for 2026-27?

The Department hasn't published FY2026-27 ceilings yet, so ImmiTrend estimates them with the method in FOI fa-260100545: each occupation group's average ABS employment over FY2025-26 times its tier rate (4%, 2%, 1% or 0.5%, at least 500) gives the ceiling, and grants to subclasses 186, 190, 491 and 494 are then subtracted to give the remaining 189 places (subclass 186 is estimated from 2025-26 nomination approvals). The estimate leaves 56,163 places across 87 groups, and 11 groups have none. For example, Registered Nurses have an estimated ceiling of 14,528 and 11,561 remaining 189 places; Accountants have a ceiling of 1,112 but 0 remaining 189 places, because grants already exceed it. After the 15 October 2026 round, an estimated 16,711–22,685 of those places have gone to 189 invitations, leaving 34,811–39,977 (as of 23 October 2026). Official figures will replace these once released.

How many 189 places are left for my occupation in 2026-27?

Ceilings are set per ANZSCO unit group (the first four digits of your occupation code), so every occupation in a group shares its places: find your occupation in the A–Z list on this page to see its group. For each group, 'Remaining 189' is the estimated ceiling minus grants to subclasses 186, 190, 491 and 494, 'Invited (est.)' is ImmiTrend's estimate of 189 invitations already issued this program year, and 'Spots left (est.)' is the difference, shown as a range. Across all groups, an estimated 34,811–39,977 of 56,163 places are left after the 15 October 2026 round. These are estimates, so use them to compare groups rather than as an exact count.

What is a subclass 189 occupation ceiling?

An occupation ceiling is the maximum number of subclass 189 (Skilled Independent) invitations the Department of Home Affairs plans to issue for an occupation group in a financial year. Ceilings are set at the ANZSCO unit-group (4-digit) level, so related occupations share one cap. Once a group nears its ceiling, invitations for it slow or stop until the next program year.

Are these occupation ceilings official?

Only the FY2025-26 ceilings are official: they are the Department of Home Affairs' planning figures, released under Freedom of Information (FOI fa-260100545). The FY2026-27 figures this page opens on are ImmiTrend estimates, made with the same method from ABS employment data and Home Affairs grant and nomination releases; the Department has not published them. Both are planning figures, not guarantees: actual invitations depend on round sizes and the EOI pool.

When will the official 2026-27 occupation ceilings be released?

There is no announced release date. The FY2025-26 ceilings became public through a Freedom of Information release (FOI fa-260100545), not a scheduled publication. Until official FY2026-27 figures are available, this page shows ImmiTrend's estimate and updates the invitations used after each 189 round; the official figures will replace the estimate once released.

What happens when an occupation group reaches its ceiling?

Once a group's subclass 189 invitations reach its ceiling, no further 189 invitations are issued to any occupation in that group for the rest of the program year (to 30 June), whatever the points score. EOIs stay in SkillSelect and can be invited when the next program year's ceilings start on 1 July. A ceiling is a cap, not a target: many groups finish the year well under theirs.

189 Occupation Ceilings 2026-27

Q: Which 189 occupation groups are full after the 15 October 2026 round?

An estimated 9 of 87 groups are at or near their 189 ceiling after the 15 October 2026 round: University Lecturers and Tutors, Painting Trades Workers, Motor Mechanics, Environmental Scientists, Carpenters and Joiners, Actuaries Mathematicians and Statisticians, Database and Systems Administrators and ICT Security Specialists, Telecommunications Engineering Professionals and Electrical Engineering Draftspersons and Technicians. These are ImmiTrend estimates; occupations in a full group are unlikely to be invited again this program year unless 189 places are added.

Last updated 23 October 2026

The Department of Home Affairs uses occupation ceilings to cap the number of 189 invitations per occupation each financial year. These figures are sourced from an FOI document and represent planning figures, not guarantees.

Most places left: Registered Nurses. Past our estimate: 5 groups. Biggest increase: Registered Nurses +599. Ceilings at a glance →

FY2026-27 estimated ceilings and places left

After the 15 October 2026 round, an estimated 16,711–22,685 subclass 189 invitations have used 30–40% of the 56,163 places ImmiTrend estimates are available to 189 in FY2026-27 across 87 occupation groups. 9 groups are at or near their ceiling, including University Lecturers and Tutors, Painting Trades Workers and Motor Mechanics; 3 more may exceed it.

189 places (est.)

56,163

of 78,681 total ceiling

Invited this FY (est.)

16,711–22,685

1 round · 15 Oct 2026 · community estimate

Places left (est.)

34,811–39,977

62–71% of 189 places

Groups full / near

+3 may exceed · 16 had no invitations

FY2026-27 ceilings and usage are ImmiTrend estimates, not official figures.

Ceilings apply the Department's own FOI methodology (fa-260100545) to the first 3 of 4 FY2025-26 ABS quarterly stock figures; prior-program grants use program year 2025-26 for 190 and 491; 186 uses 2025-26 nomination approvals to 31 May 2026 (DA 26/06/00293; 2024-25 grants where approvals are under 20 or masked) as an estimate of 186 grants; 494 uses 2024-25. Invited figures are a community estimate from round answers and reports until official cut-offs are published, so groups show a range. Official figures replace these as soon as they're released.

Used by 186 / 190 / 491 / 494189 invited (low)up to highLeft% = share of the group's 189 placesShowing 87 of 87


T3	616	128	261–280%	334–359	—	Above our estimate
T3	500	252	173–256%	436–644	—	Above our estimate
T3	1,136	39	185%	72	—	Above our estimate
T3	500	217	4–156%	9–339	0–208	May exceed
T3	500	379	121–151%	457–572	—	Above our estimate
T3	500	360	72–129%	258–465	0–102	May exceed
T3	1,484	913	103–123%	937–1,121	—	Above our estimate
T3	500	352	91–114%	319–401	0–33	May exceed
T3	500	368	97–98%	358–359	9–10	Full / near
T4	500	38	95%	36	2	Full / near
T4	500	347	44–94%	152–326	21–195	Full / near
T3	500	406	67–91%	272–368	38–134	Full / near
T1	14,528	11,561	58–81%	6,691–9,321	2,240–4,870	Filling
T3	500	221	77–81%	170–178	43–51	Filling
T4	500	340	57–78%	195–265	75–145	Filling
T3	500	375	59–73%	220–275	100–155	Filling
T3	1,302	720	54–68%	387–491	229–333	Filling
T3	1,103	1,034	67%	696	338	Filling
T3	500	391	41–67%	162–263	128–229	Filling
T1	960	799	50–67%	400–532	267–399	Filling
T2	1,372	526	57%	300	226	Filling
T3	813	361	24–54%	88–196	165–273	Filling
T3	500	262	43–54%	112–141	121–150	Filling
T3	500	333	34–50%	112–168	165–221	Filling
T3	1,023	596	34–44%	201–261	335–395	Filling
T2	850	671	32–38%	214–254	417–457	Open
T3	500	426	21–33%	88–142	284–338	Open
T1	1,772	1,515	23–33%	350–496	1,019–1,165	Open
T3	500	416	19–32%	79–132	284–337	Open
T3	500	464	14–31%	64–146	318–400	Open
T1	1,608	1,442	20–30%	288–437	1,005–1,154	Open
T3	500	414	18–30%	76–125	289–338	Open
T3	500	461	16–24%	75–109	352–386	Open
T1	3,784	3,171	16–22%	493–682	2,489–2,678	Open
T3	500	436	13–21%	58–93	343–378	Open
T3	712	610	20–21%	123–128	482–487	Open
T3	500	481	17–19%	81–93	388–400	Open
T4	500	439	8–19%	36–84	355–403	Open
T1	810	701	17–19%	119–131	570–582	Open
T3	1,187	645	11–18%	74–116	529–571	Open
T3	500	438	15%	66	372	Open
T3	500	442	8–15%	35–65	377–407	Open
T3	500	368	10–14%	38–53	315–330	Open
T2	3,354	2,845	13%	358–383	2,462–2,487	Open
T1	720	670	7–12%	49–81	589–621	Open
T3	1,974	1,664	12%	199	1,465	Open
T1	1,189	1,146	9–11%	104–121	1,025–1,042	Open
T3	500	351	3–10%	11–36	315–340	Open
T3	500	429	5–9%	23–39	390–406	Open
T3	1,136	970	7%	71	899	Open
T3	500	441	6–7%	27–32	409–414	Open
T3	500	341	3–5%	9–16	325–332	Open
T2	1,089	1,023	2–4%	24–46	977–999	Open
T3	500	481	4%	20	461	Open
T1	614	525	3–4%	18–21	504–507	Open
T3	500	495	2–3%	10–15	480–485	Open
T3	500	467	1–3%	4–14	453–463	Open
T1	500	487	2–3%	11–14	473–476	Open
T3	500	476	2–3%	9–12	464–467	Open
T3	500	489	1–2%	5–12	477–484	Open
T3	713	637	1–2%	7–11	626–630	Open
T3	500	487	1%	3–7	480–484	Open
T1	500	496	0–1%	1–7	489–495	Open
T2	628	602	1%	7–8	594–595	Open
T3	500	496	0–1%	2–5	491–494	Open
T3	500	498	0–1%	1–5	493–497	Open
T1	500	475	0–1%	2–3	472–473	Open
T2	500	453	0%	1–2	451–452	Open
T1	500	474	0%	2	472	Open
T3	500	500	0%	1	499	Open
T3	568	502	0%	1	501	Open
T3	500	496	0%	0	496	No invites
T3	500	496	0%	0	496	No invites
T3	500	474	0%	0	474	No invites
T3	500	461	0%	0	461	No invites
T3	500	458	0%	0	458	No invites
T4	1,112	0	no 189 places	0	0	No invites
T4	500	0	no 189 places	0	0	No invites
T3	806	0	no 189 places	0	0	No invites
T3	500	0	no 189 places	0	0	No invites
T3	500	0	no 189 places	0	0	No invites
T3	500	0	no 189 places	0	0	No invites
T4	500	0	no 189 places	0	0	No invites
T4	1,038	0	no 189 places	0	0	No invites
T4	500	0	no 189 places	0	0	No invites
T3	500	0	no 189 places	0	0	No invites
T4	680	0	no 189 places	0	0	No invites

2421University Lecturers and TutorsT3

Above our estimate

261–280%

Invited this FY (est.)

334–359

Spots left (est.)

—

3322Painting Trades WorkersT3

Above our estimate

173–256%

Invited this FY (est.)

436–644

Spots left (est.)

—

3212Motor MechanicsT3

Above our estimate

185%

Invited this FY (est.)

Spots left (est.)

—

2334Electronics EngineersT3

May exceed

4–156%

Invited this FY (est.)

9–339

Spots left (est.)

0–208

2343Environmental ScientistsT3

Above our estimate

121–151%

Invited this FY (est.)

457–572

Spots left (est.)

—

2342Chemists and Food and Wine ScientistsT3

May exceed

72–129%

Invited this FY (est.)

258–465

Spots left (est.)

0–102

3312Carpenters and JoinersT3

Above our estimate

103–123%

Invited this FY (est.)

937–1,121

Spots left (est.)

—

2331Chemical and Materials EngineersT3

May exceed

91–114%

Invited this FY (est.)

319–401

Spots left (est.)

0–33

2241Actuaries Mathematicians and StatisticiansT3

Full / near

97–98%

Invited this FY (est.)

358–359

Spots left (est.)

9–10

2621Database and Systems Administrators and ICT Security SpecialistsT4

Full / near

95%

Invited this FY (est.)

Spots left (est.)

2633Telecommunications Engineering ProfessionalsT4

Full / near

44–94%

Invited this FY (est.)

152–326

Spots left (est.)

21–195

3123Electrical Engineering Draftspersons and TechniciansT3

Full / near

67–91%

Invited this FY (est.)

272–368

Spots left (est.)

38–134

2544Registered NursesT1

Filling

58–81%

Invited this FY (est.)

6,691–9,321

Spots left (est.)

2,240–4,870

2321Architects and Landscape ArchitectsT3

Filling

77–81%

Invited this FY (est.)

170–178

Spots left (est.)

43–51

2612Multimedia Specialists and Web DevelopersT4

Filling

57–78%

Invited this FY (est.)

195–265

Spots left (est.)

75–145

2341Agricultural and Forestry ScientistsT3

Filling

59–73%

Invited this FY (est.)

220–275

Spots left (est.)

100–155

1331Construction ManagersT3

Filling

54–68%

Invited this FY (est.)

387–491

Spots left (est.)

229–333

2713SolicitorsT3

Filling

67%

Invited this FY (est.)

696

Spots left (est.)

338

3423Electronics Trades WorkersT3

Filling

41–67%

Invited this FY (est.)

162–263

Spots left (est.)

128–229

2539Other Medical PractitionersT1

Filling

50–67%

Invited this FY (est.)

400–532

Spots left (est.)

267–399

2411Early Childhood TeachersT2

Filling

57%

Invited this FY (est.)

300

Spots left (est.)

226

3223Structural Steel and Welding Trades WorkersT3

Filling

24–54%

Invited this FY (est.)

88–196

Spots left (est.)

165–273

2345Life ScientistsT3

Filling

43–54%

Invited this FY (est.)

112–141

Spots left (est.)

121–150

2336Mining EngineersT3

Filling

34–50%

Invited this FY (est.)

112–168

Spots left (est.)

165–221

2247Management and Organisation AnalystsT3

Filling

34–44%

Invited this FY (est.)

201–261

Spots left (est.)

335–395

2725Social WorkersT2

Open

32–38%

Invited this FY (est.)

214–254

Spots left (est.)

417–457

3941CabinetmakersT3

Open

21–33%

Invited this FY (est.)

88–142

Spots left (est.)

284–338

2525PhysiotherapistsT1

Open

23–33%

Invited this FY (est.)

350–496

Spots left (est.)

1,019–1,165

3334Wall and Floor TilersT3

Open

19–32%

Invited this FY (est.)

79–132

Spots left (est.)

284–337

2346Medical Laboratory ScientistsT3

Open

14–31%

Invited this FY (est.)

64–146

Spots left (est.)

318–400

2524Occupational TherapistsT1

Open

20–30%

Invited this FY (est.)

288–437

Spots left (est.)

1,005–1,154

3311Bricklayers and StonemasonsT3

Open

18–30%

Invited this FY (est.)

76–125

Spots left (est.)

289–338

2243EconomistsT3

Open

16–24%

Invited this FY (est.)

75–109

Spots left (est.)

352–386

2531General Practitioners and Resident Medical OfficersT1

Open

16–22%

Invited this FY (est.)

493–682

Spots left (est.)

2,489–2,678

2347VeterinariansT3

Open

13–21%

Invited this FY (est.)

58–93

Spots left (est.)

343–378

1399Other Specialist ManagersT3

Open

20–21%

Invited this FY (est.)

123–128

Spots left (est.)

482–487

2245Land Economists and ValuersT3

Open

17–19%

Invited this FY (est.)

81–93

Spots left (est.)

388–400

3132Telecommunications Trades WorkersT4

Open

8–19%

Invited this FY (est.)

36–84

Spots left (est.)

355–403

2527Audiologists and Speech PathologistsT1

Open

17–19%

Invited this FY (est.)

119–131

Spots left (est.)

570–582

3232Metal Fitters and MachinistsT3

Open

11–18%

Invited this FY (est.)

74–116

Spots left (est.)

529–571

3332PlasterersT3

Open

15%

Invited this FY (est.)

Spots left (est.)

372

3211Automotive ElectriciansT3

Open

8–15%

Invited this FY (est.)

35–65

Spots left (est.)

377–407

2322Surveyors and Spatial ScientistsT3

Open

10–14%

Invited this FY (est.)

38–53

Spots left (est.)

315–330

2414Secondary School TeachersT2

Open

13%

Invited this FY (est.)

358–383

Spots left (est.)

2,462–2,487

2541MidwivesT1

Open

7–12%

Invited this FY (est.)

49–81

Spots left (est.)

589–621

3411ElectriciansT3

Open

12%

Invited this FY (est.)

199

Spots left (est.)

1,465

2512Medical Imaging ProfessionalsT1

Open

9–11%

Invited this FY (est.)

104–121

Spots left (est.)

1,025–1,042

1332Engineering ManagersT3

Open

3–10%

Invited this FY (est.)

11–36

Spots left (est.)

315–340

3421Air Conditioning and Refrigeration MechanicsT3

Open

5–9%

Invited this FY (est.)

23–39

Spots left (est.)

390–406

3341PlumbersT3

Open

Invited this FY (est.)

Spots left (est.)

899

2349Other Natural and Physical Science ProfessionalsT3

Open

6–7%

Invited this FY (est.)

27–32

Spots left (est.)

409–414

2344Geologists Geophysicists and HydrogeologistsT3

Open

3–5%

Invited this FY (est.)

9–16

Spots left (est.)

325–332

2723PsychologistsT2

Open

2–4%

Invited this FY (est.)

24–46

Spots left (est.)

977–999

3331GlaziersT3

Open

Invited this FY (est.)

Spots left (est.)

461

2533Specialist PhysiciansT1

Open

3–4%

Invited this FY (est.)

18–21

Spots left (est.)

504–507

2112Music ProfessionalsT3

Open

2–3%

Invited this FY (est.)

10–15

Spots left (est.)

480–485

3241PanelbeatersT3

Open

1–3%

Invited this FY (est.)

4–14

Spots left (est.)

453–463

2514Optometrists and OrthoptistsT1

Open

2–3%

Invited this FY (est.)

11–14

Spots left (est.)

473–476

3222Sheetmetal Trades WorkersT3

Open

2–3%

Invited this FY (est.)

9–12

Spots left (est.)

464–467

3991Boat Builders and ShipwrightsT3

Open

1–2%

Invited this FY (est.)

5–12

Spots left (est.)

477–484

4523Sports Coaches Instructors and OfficialsT3

Open

1–2%

Invited this FY (est.)

7–11

Spots left (est.)

626–630

2521Chiropractors and OsteopathsT3

Open

Invited this FY (est.)

3–7

Spots left (est.)

480–484

2526PodiatristsT1

Open

0–1%

Invited this FY (est.)

1–7

Spots left (est.)

489–495

2415Special Education TeachersT2

Open

Invited this FY (est.)

7–8

Spots left (est.)

594–595

3233Precision Metal Trades WorkersT3

Open

0–1%

Invited this FY (est.)

2–5

Spots left (est.)

491–494

2711BarristersT3

Open

0–1%

Invited this FY (est.)

1–5

Spots left (est.)

493–497

2535SurgeonsT1

Open

0–1%

Invited this FY (est.)

2–3

Spots left (est.)

472–473

1341Child Care Centre ManagersT2

Open

Invited this FY (est.)

1–2

Spots left (est.)

451–452

2534PsychiatristsT1

Open

Invited this FY (est.)

Spots left (est.)

472

2111Actors and EntertainersT3

Open

Invited this FY (est.)

Spots left (est.)

499

1342Health and Welfare Services ManagersT3

Open

Invited this FY (est.)

Spots left (est.)

501

2121Artistic Directors and Media ProducersT3

No invites

Invited this FY (est.)

Spots left (est.)

496

4524SportspersonsT3

No invites

Invited this FY (est.)

Spots left (est.)

496

3422Electrical Distribution Trades WorkersT3

No invites

Invited this FY (est.)

Spots left (est.)

474

2519Other Health Diagnostic and Promotion ProfessionalsT3

No invites

Invited this FY (est.)

Spots left (est.)

461

3611Animal Attendants and TrainersT3

No invites

Invited this FY (est.)

Spots left (est.)

458

2211AccountantsT4

No invites

no 189 places

Invited this FY (est.)

Spots left (est.)

2212Auditors Company Secretaries and Corporate TreasurersT4

No invites

no 189 places

Invited this FY (est.)

Spots left (est.)

2332Civil Engineering ProfessionalsT3

No invites

no 189 places

Invited this FY (est.)

Spots left (est.)

2333Electrical EngineersT3

No invites

no 189 places

Invited this FY (est.)

Spots left (est.)

2335Industrial Mechanical and Production EngineersT3

No invites

no 189 places

Invited this FY (est.)

Spots left (est.)

2339Other Engineering ProfessionalsT3

No invites

no 189 places

Invited this FY (est.)

Spots left (est.)

2611ICT Business and Systems AnalystsT4

No invites

no 189 places

Invited this FY (est.)

Spots left (est.)

2613Software and Applications ProgrammersT4

No invites

no 189 places

Invited this FY (est.)

Spots left (est.)

2631Computer Network ProfessionalsT4

No invites

no 189 places

Invited this FY (est.)

Spots left (est.)

3122Civil Engineering Draftspersons and TechniciansT3

No invites

no 189 places

Invited this FY (est.)

Spots left (est.)

3513ChefsT4

No invites

no 189 places

Invited this FY (est.)

Spots left (est.)

Above our estimate: even the low estimate of invitations is above ImmiTrend's 189 place estimate for the group, so places left shows —. A round can't exceed a ceiling, so our place estimate for these groups is likely too low. May exceed: the invitation range straddles the place estimate. Invited figures are a community estimate from round answers and reports until official cut-offs are published.

Invited: community estimate (round answers and reports) · 15 Oct 2026

Grants to prior programs, by visa

“Grants (Prior)” counts main applicants granted a subclass 190 and 491 visa in 2025-26 (the full year) and a subclass 494 visa in 2024-25, in each unit group. Across the unit groups in this table, they split like this.

186Employer Nomination Scheme
12,774
Subclass 186 grants
190Skilled Nominated
12,307
Subclass 190 grants
491Skilled Work Regional (provisional)
7,438
Subclass 491 grants
494Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (provisional)
228
Subclass 494 grants

Subclasses 190 and 491 are from a Home Affairs data-access release covering all of 2025-26; counts it shows as “<5” are estimated. Subclass 494 comes from Department of Home Affairs BP0068, because its 2025-26 split by occupation hasn't been published. Figures can differ from the official ones by a few grants per unit group. Subclass 186 is an ImmiTrend estimate from 2025-26 nomination approvals to 31 May 2026 (Home Affairs data-access release DA 26/06/00293), not a count of granted visas.

All 212 subclass 189 occupations, A–Z

Show list

Ceilings apply to the whole ANZSCO unit group, so find your occupation here to see which group holds its places. Select one to open that group in the table.

221111Accountant (General)2211 Accountants · No invites
224111Actuary2241 Actuaries Mathematicians and Statisticians · Full / near · cut-off 85 (est.)
233911Aeronautical Engineer2339 Other Engineering Professionals · No invites
234111Agricultural Consultant2341 Agricultural and Forestry Scientists · Filling · cut-off 80 (est.)
233912Agricultural Engineer2339 Other Engineering Professionals · No invites
234112Agricultural Scientist2341 Agricultural and Forestry Scientists · Filling · cut-off 80 (est.)
334112Airconditioning and Mechanical Services Plumber3341 Plumbers · Open · cut-off 65 (est.)
342111Airconditioning and Refrigeration Mechanic3421 Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Mechanics · Open · cut-off 65 (est.)
261311Analyst Programmer2613 Software and Applications Programmers · No invites
232111Architect2321 Architects and Landscape Architects · Filling · cut-off 85 (est.)
212111Artistic Director2121 Artistic Directors and Media Producers · No invites
139911Arts Administrator or Manager1399 Other Specialist Managers · Open · cut-off 70 (est.)
252711Audiologist2527 Audiologists and Speech Pathologists · Open · cut-off 75 (est.)
321111Automotive Electrician3211 Automotive Electricians · Open · cut-off 65 (est.)
271111Barrister2711 Barristers · Open · cut-off 80 (est.)
234513Biochemist2345 Life Scientists · Filling · cut-off 90 (est.)
233913Biomedical Engineer2339 Other Engineering Professionals · No invites
234514Biotechnologist2345 Life Scientists · Filling · cut-off 90 (est.)
399111Boat Builder and Repairer3991 Boat Builders and Shipwrights · Open · cut-off 70 (est.)
234515Botanist2345 Life Scientists · Filling
331111Bricklayer3311 Bricklayers and Stonemasons · Open · cut-off 65 (est.)
394111Cabinetmaker3941 Cabinetmakers · Open · cut-off 65 (est.)
253312Cardiologist2533 Specialist Physicians · Open
253512Cardiothoracic Surgeon2535 Surgeons · Open
331212Carpenter3312 Carpenters and Joiners · Above our estimate · cut-off 65 (est.)
331211Carpenter and Joiner3312 Carpenters and Joiners · Above our estimate · cut-off 65 (est.)
232213Cartographer2322 Surveyors and Spatial Scientists · Open · cut-off 80 (est.)
351311Chef3513 Chefs · No invites
233111Chemical Engineer2331 Chemical and Materials Engineers · May exceed · cut-off 85 (est.)
234211Chemist2342 Chemists and Food and Wine Scientists · May exceed · cut-off 80 (est.)
134111Child Care Centre Manager1341 Child Care Centre Managers · Open · cut-off 85 (est.)
252111Chiropractor2521 Chiropractors and Osteopaths · Open · cut-off 85 (est.)
233211Civil Engineer2332 Civil Engineering Professionals · No invites
312211Civil Engineering Draftsperson3122 Civil Engineering Draftspersons and Technicians · No invites
312212Civil Engineering Technician3122 Civil Engineering Draftspersons and Technicians · No invites
253313Clinical Haematologist2533 Specialist Physicians · Open
272311Clinical Psychologist2723 Psychologists · Open · cut-off 80 (est.)
263111Computer Network and Systems Engineer2631 Computer Network Professionals · No invites
234911Conservator2349 Other Natural and Physical Science Professionals · Open · cut-off 85 (est.)
133111Construction Project Manager1331 Construction Managers · Filling · cut-off 80 (est.)
211112Dancer or Choreographer2111 Actors and Entertainers · Open · cut-off 85 (est.)
253911Dermatologist2539 Other Medical Practitioners · Filling · cut-off 80 (est.)
261312Developer Programmer2613 Software and Applications Programmers · No invites
253917Diagnostic and Interventional Radiologist2539 Other Medical Practitioners · Filling · cut-off 80 (est.)
321212Diesel Motor Mechanic3212 Motor Mechanics · Above our estimate · cut-off 90 (est.)
334113Drainer3341 Plumbers · Open · cut-off 65 (est.)
241111Early Childhood (Pre-primary School) Teacher2411 Early Childhood Teachers · Filling · cut-off 90 (est.)
224311Economist2243 Economists · Open · cut-off 75 (est.)
272312Educational Psychologist2723 Psychologists · Open · cut-off 80 (est.)
233311Electrical Engineer2333 Electrical Engineers · No invites
312311Electrical Engineering Draftsperson3123 Electrical Engineering Draftspersons and Technicians · Full / near · cut-off 65 (est.)
312312Electrical Engineering Technician3123 Electrical Engineering Draftspersons and Technicians · Full / near · cut-off 65 (est.)
341111Electrician (General)3411 Electricians · Open · cut-off 65 (est.)
341112Electrician (Special Class)3411 Electricians · Open · cut-off 65 (est.)
342313Electronic Equipment Trades Worker3423 Electronics Trades Workers · Filling · cut-off 65 (est.)
342314Electronic Instrument Trades Worker (General)3423 Electronics Trades Workers · Filling · cut-off 65 (est.)
342315Electronic Instrument Trades Worker (Special Class)3423 Electronics Trades Workers · Filling · cut-off 70 (est.)
233411Electronics Engineer2334 Electronics Engineers · May exceed · cut-off 95 (est.)
253912Emergency Medicine Specialist2539 Other Medical Practitioners · Filling · cut-off 80 (est.)
253315Endocrinologist2533 Specialist Physicians · Open · cut-off 80 (est.)
133211Engineering Manager1332 Engineering Managers · Open · cut-off 80 (est.)
233999Engineering Professionals (nec)2339 Other Engineering Professionals · No invites
233914Engineering Technologist2339 Other Engineering Professionals · No invites
234312Environmental Consultant2343 Environmental Scientists · Above our estimate · cut-off 65 (est.)
233915Environmental Engineer2339 Other Engineering Professionals · No invites
139912Environmental Manager1399 Other Specialist Managers · Open · cut-off 70 (est.)
234313Environmental Research Scientist2343 Environmental Scientists · Above our estimate · cut-off 65 (est.)
234399Environmental Scientists nec2343 Environmental Scientists · Above our estimate · cut-off 65 (est.)
221213External Auditor2212 Auditors Company Secretaries and Corporate Treasurers · No invites
333211Fibrous Plasterer3332 Plasterers · Open · cut-off 65 (est.)
323211Fitter (General)3232 Metal Fitters and Machinists · Open · cut-off 70 (est.)
323212Fitter and Turner3232 Metal Fitters and Machinists · Open
323213Fitter-Welder3232 Metal Fitters and Machinists · Open
234212Food Technologist2342 Chemists and Food and Wine Scientists · May exceed · cut-off 80 (est.)
452411Footballer4524 Sportspersons · No invites
234113Forester2341 Agricultural and Forestry Scientists · Filling · cut-off 80 (est.)
334114Gasfitter3341 Plumbers · Open · cut-off 65 (est.)
253316Gastroenterologist2533 Specialist Physicians · Open · cut-off 80 (est.)
253111General Practitioner2531 General Practitioners and Resident Medical Officers · Open · cut-off 70 (est.)
234412Geophysicist2344 Geologists Geophysicists and Hydrogeologists · Open · cut-off 80 (est.)
233212Geotechnical Engineer2332 Civil Engineering Professionals · No invites
333111Glazier3331 Glaziers · Open · cut-off 65 (est.)
361112Horse Trainer3611 Animal Attendants and Trainers · No invites
234413Hydrogeologist2344 Geologists Geophysicists and Hydrogeologists · Open · cut-off 80 (est.)
261111ICT Business Analyst2611 ICT Business and Systems Analysts · No invites
262112ICT Security Specialist2621 Database and Systems Administrators and ICT Security Specialists · Full / near · cut-off 100 (est.)
233511Industrial Engineer2335 Industrial Mechanical and Production Engineers · No invites
253317Intensive Care Specialist2533 Specialist Physicians · Open
221214Internal Auditor2212 Auditors Company Secretaries and Corporate Treasurers · No invites
331213Joiner3312 Carpenters and Joiners · Above our estimate · cut-off 65 (est.)
224511Land Economist2245 Land Economists and Valuers · Open · cut-off 65 (est.)
232112Landscape Architect2321 Architects and Landscape Architects · Filling · cut-off 85 (est.)
234511Life Scientist (General)2345 Life Scientists · Filling · cut-off 90 (est.)
234599Life Scientist (nec)2345 Life Scientists · Filling · cut-off 90 (est.)
341113Lift Mechanic3411 Electricians · Open · cut-off 65 (est.)
323313Locksmith3233 Precision Metal Trades Workers · Open · cut-off 70 (est.)
221112Management Accountant2211 Accountants · No invites
224711Management Consultant2247 Management and Organisation Analysts · Filling · cut-off 80 (est.)
234516Marine Biologist2345 Life Scientists · Filling · cut-off 90 (est.)
233112Materials Engineer2331 Chemical and Materials Engineers · May exceed · cut-off 85 (est.)
233512Mechanical Engineer2335 Industrial Mechanical and Production Engineers · No invites
251211Medical Diagnostic Radiographer2512 Medical Imaging Professionals · Open · cut-off 75 (est.)
234611Medical Laboratory Scientist2346 Medical Laboratory Scientists · Open · cut-off 80 (est.)
253314Medical Oncologist2533 Specialist Physicians · Open
253999Medical Practitioners nec2539 Other Medical Practitioners · Filling · cut-off 70 (est.)
251212Medical Radiation Therapist2512 Medical Imaging Professionals · Open · cut-off 75 (est.)
322311Metal Fabricator3223 Structural Steel and Welding Trades Workers · Filling · cut-off 80 (est.)
323214Metal Machinist (First Class)3232 Metal Fitters and Machinists · Open · cut-off 80 (est.)
234912Metallurgist2349 Other Natural and Physical Science Professionals · Open · cut-off 85 (est.)
234913Meteorologist2349 Other Natural and Physical Science Professionals · Open · cut-off 85 (est.)
234517Microbiologist2345 Life Scientists · Filling · cut-off 90 (est.)
254111Midwife2541 Midwives · Open · cut-off 70 (est.)
233611Mining Engineer (excluding Petroleum)2336 Mining Engineers · Filling · cut-off 80 (est.)
321211Motor Mechanic (General)3212 Motor Mechanics · Above our estimate · cut-off 90 (est.)
321213Motorcycle Mechanic3212 Motor Mechanics · Above our estimate
261211Multimedia Specialist2612 Multimedia Specialists and Web Developers · Filling · cut-off 85 (est.)
211212Music Director2112 Music Professionals · Open · cut-off 65 (est.)
211213Musician (Instrumental)2112 Music Professionals · Open · cut-off 65 (est.)
234999Natural and Physical Science Professionals nec2349 Other Natural and Physical Science Professionals · Open · cut-off 85 (est.)
233916Naval Architect2339 Other Engineering Professionals · No invites
253318Neurologist2533 Specialist Physicians · Open · cut-off 80 (est.)
253513Neurosurgeon2535 Surgeons · Open
251213Nuclear Medicine Technologist2512 Medical Imaging Professionals · Open
254411Nurse Practitioner2544 Registered Nurses · Filling · cut-off 70 (est.)
134212Nursing Clinical Director1342 Health and Welfare Services Managers · Open
253913Obstetrician and Gynaecologist2539 Other Medical Practitioners · Filling · cut-off 80 (est.)
252411Occupational Therapist2524 Occupational Therapists · Open · cut-off 70 (est.)
253914Ophthalmologist2539 Other Medical Practitioners · Filling · cut-off 80 (est.)
251411Optometrist2514 Optometrists and Orthoptists · Open · cut-off 80 (est.)
272313Organisational Psychologist2723 Psychologists · Open
253514Orthopaedic Surgeon2535 Surgeons · Open · cut-off 85 (est.)
251912Orthotist or Prosthetist2519 Other Health Diagnostic and Promotion Professionals · No invites
252112Osteopath2521 Chiropractors and Osteopaths · Open
232214Other Spatial Scientist2322 Surveyors and Spatial Scientists · Open · cut-off 80 (est.)
253515Otorhinolaryngologist2535 Surgeons · Open
253516Paediatric Surgeon2535 Surgeons · Open
253321Paediatrician2533 Specialist Physicians · Open · cut-off 80 (est.)
332211Painting Trades Worker3322 Painting Trades Workers · Above our estimate · cut-off 70 (est.)
324111Panelbeater3241 Panelbeaters · Open · cut-off 65 (est.)
253915Pathologist2539 Other Medical Practitioners · Filling
233612Petroleum Engineer2336 Mining Engineers · Filling · cut-off 80 (est.)
234914Physicist2349 Other Natural and Physical Science Professionals · Open · cut-off 85 (est.)
252511Physiotherapist2525 Physiotherapists · Open · cut-off 70 (est.)
253517Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon2535 Surgeons · Open
334111Plumber (General)3341 Plumbers · Open · cut-off 65 (est.)
252611Podiatrist2526 Podiatrists · Open · cut-off 80 (est.)
322312Pressure Welder3223 Structural Steel and Welding Trades Workers · Filling
134213Primary Health Organisation Manager1342 Health and Welfare Services Managers · Open · cut-off 85 (est.)
233513Production or Plant Engineer2335 Industrial Mechanical and Production Engineers · No invites
253411Psychiatrist2534 Psychiatrists · Open · cut-off 85 (est.)
272399Psychologist (nec)2723 Psychologists · Open · cut-off 80 (est.)
233213Quantity Surveyor2332 Civil Engineering Professionals · No invites
253918Radiation Oncologist2539 Other Medical Practitioners · Filling
313211Radiocommunications Technician3132 Telecommunications Trades Workers · Open · cut-off 85 (est.)
254412Registered Nurse (Aged Care)2544 Registered Nurses · Filling · cut-off 70 (est.)
254413Registered Nurse (Child and Family Health)2544 Registered Nurses · Filling · cut-off 70 (est.)
254414Registered Nurse (Community Health)2544 Registered Nurses · Filling · cut-off 70 (est.)
254415Registered Nurse (Critical Care and Emergency)2544 Registered Nurses · Filling · cut-off 70 (est.)
254416Registered Nurse (Developmental Disability)2544 Registered Nurses · Filling · cut-off 70 (est.)
254417Registered Nurse (Disability and Rehabilitation)2544 Registered Nurses · Filling · cut-off 70 (est.)
254421Registered Nurse (Medical Practice)2544 Registered Nurses · Filling · cut-off 70 (est.)
254418Registered Nurse (Medical)2544 Registered Nurses · Filling · cut-off 70 (est.)
254422Registered Nurse (Mental Health)2544 Registered Nurses · Filling · cut-off 70 (est.)
254425Registered Nurse (Paediatrics)2544 Registered Nurses · Filling · cut-off 70 (est.)
254423Registered Nurse (Perioperative)2544 Registered Nurses · Filling · cut-off 70 (est.)
254424Registered Nurse (Surgical)2544 Registered Nurses · Filling · cut-off 70 (est.)
254499Registered Nurses (nec)2544 Registered Nurses · Filling · cut-off 70 (est.)
253322Renal Medicine Specialist2533 Specialist Physicians · Open
253323Rheumatologist2533 Specialist Physicians · Open
334115Roof Plumber3341 Plumbers · Open · cut-off 65 (est.)
241411Secondary School Teacher2414 Secondary School Teachers · Open · cut-off 80 (est.)
322211Sheetmetal Trades Worker3222 Sheetmetal Trades Workers · Open · cut-off 65 (est.)
399112Shipwright3991 Boat Builders and Shipwrights · Open
321214Small Engine Mechanic3212 Motor Mechanics · Above our estimate
272511Social Worker2725 Social Workers · Open · cut-off 80 (est.)
261399Software and Applications Programmers (nec)2613 Software and Applications Programmers · No invites
261313Software Engineer2613 Software and Applications Programmers · No invites
271311Solicitor2713 Solicitors · Filling · cut-off 65 (est.)
333212Solid Plasterer3332 Plasterers · Open · cut-off 65 (est.)
251214Sonographer2512 Medical Imaging Professionals · Open · cut-off 75 (est.)
241599Special Education Teachers nec2415 Special Education Teachers · Open · cut-off 80 (est.)
241511Special Needs Teacher2415 Special Education Teachers · Open · cut-off 80 (est.)
253311Specialist Physician (General Medicine)2533 Specialist Physicians · Open · cut-off 80 (est.)
253399Specialist Physicians nec2533 Specialist Physicians · Open · cut-off 80 (est.)
252712Speech Pathologist2527 Audiologists and Speech Pathologists · Open · cut-off 75 (est.)
224113Statistician2241 Actuaries Mathematicians and Statisticians · Full / near · cut-off 85 (est.)
331112Stonemason3311 Bricklayers and Stonemasons · Open · cut-off 65 (est.)
233214Structural Engineer2332 Civil Engineering Professionals · No invites
253511Surgeon (General)2535 Surgeons · Open · cut-off 85 (est.)
232212Surveyor2322 Surveyors and Spatial Scientists · Open · cut-off 80 (est.)
261112Systems Analyst2611 ICT Business and Systems Analysts · No invites
221113Taxation Accountant2211 Accountants · No invites
241512Teacher of the Hearing Impaired2415 Special Education Teachers · Open
241513Teacher of the Sight Impaired2415 Special Education Teachers · Open
342212Technical Cable Jointer3422 Electrical Distribution Trades Workers · No invites
263311Telecommunications Engineer2633 Telecommunications Engineering Professionals · Full / near · cut-off 85 (est.)
313212Telecommunications Field Engineer3132 Telecommunications Trades Workers · Open · cut-off 85 (est.)
263312Telecommunications Network Engineer2633 Telecommunications Engineering Professionals · Full / near · cut-off 85 (est.)
313213Telecommunications Network Planner3132 Telecommunications Trades Workers · Open · cut-off 85 (est.)
313214Telecommunications Technical Officer or Technologist3132 Telecommunications Trades Workers · Open · cut-off 85 (est.)
452316Tennis Coach4523 Sports Coaches Instructors and Officials · Open · cut-off 75 (est.)
253324Thoracic Medicine Specialist2533 Specialist Physicians · Open
233215Transport Engineer2332 Civil Engineering Professionals · No invites
242111University Lecturer2421 University Lecturers and Tutors · Above our estimate · cut-off 90 (est.)
253518Urologist2535 Surgeons · Open · cut-off 85 (est.)
224512Valuer2245 Land Economists and Valuers · Open · cut-off 65 (est.)
253521Vascular Surgeon2535 Surgeons · Open
234711Veterinarian2347 Veterinarians · Open · cut-off 80 (est.)
333411Wall and Floor Tiler3334 Wall and Floor Tilers · Open · cut-off 65 (est.)
322313Welder (First Class)3223 Structural Steel and Welding Trades Workers · Filling · cut-off 75 (est.)
134214Welfare Centre Manager1342 Health and Welfare Services Managers · Open
234518Zoologist2345 Life Scientists · Filling · cut-off 90 (est.)

FY2025-26 official ceilings (FOI fa-260100545)

Total Occupations

occupation groups

Tier 1

Highest priority

Tier 2

High priority

Tier 3

Standard priority

Tier 4

Lowest priority

⚠These ceilings are planning figures obtained via FOI (fa-260100545). They represent the Department's internal planning and may not match final invitation outcomes. The multiplier, average stock, and prior grants are used internally to calculate remaining 189 places.

Unit Group	Occupation	Tier	Avg Stock	Ceiling	Grants (Prior)	Remaining 189
1331	Construction Managers	T3	129,224	1,292	490	802
1332	Engineering Managers	T3	31,989	500	126	374
1341	Child Care Centre Managers	T2	16,305	500	40	460
1342	Health and Welfare Services Managers	T3	41,489	500	36	464
1399	Other Specialist Managers	T3	67,032	670	137	533
2111	Actors and Entertainers	T3	9,855	500	0	500
2112	Music Professionals	T3	9,090	500	5	500
2121	Artistic Directors and Media Producers	T3	15,415	500	0	500
2211	Accountants	T4	207,708	1,039	3,025	0
2212	Auditors Company Secretaries and Corporate Treasurers	T4	31,905	500	751	0
2241	Actuaries Mathematicians and Statisticians	T3	11,531	500	106	394
2243	Economists	T3	4,977	500	39	461
2245	Land Economists and Valuers	T3	16,113	500	16	484
2247	Management and Organisation Analysts	T3	101,112	1,011	408	603
2321	Architects and Landscape Architects	T3	35,899	500	279	221
2322	Surveyors and Spatial Scientists	T3	19,051	500	128	372
2331	Chemical and Materials Engineers	T3	7,006	500	263	237
2332	Civil Engineering Professionals	T3	74,491	745	2,013	0
2333	Electrical Engineers	T3	32,989	500	950	0
2334	Electronics Engineers	T3	5,171	500	475	25
2335	Industrial Mechanical and Production Engineers	T3	38,154	500	1,848	0
2336	Mining Engineers	T3	17,180	500	225	275
2339	Other Engineering Professionals	T3	16,155	500	1,180	0
2341	Agricultural and Forestry Scientists	T3	9,596	500	178	322
2342	Chemists and Food and Wine Scientists	T3	9,826	500	199	301
2343	Environmental Scientists	T3	30,800	500	103	397
2344	Geologists Geophysicists and Hydrogeologists	T3	15,044	500	162	338
2345	Life Scientists	T3	9,685	500	177	323
2346	Medical Laboratory Scientists	T3	31,712	500	13	487
2347	Veterinarians	T3	16,875	500	74	426
2349	Other Natural and Physical Science Professionals	T3	14,197	500	59	441
2411	Early Childhood Teachers	T2	79,172	1,583	556	1,027
2414	Secondary School Teachers	T2	160,951	3,219	382	2,837
2415	Special Education Teachers	T2	27,577	552	15	537
2421	University Lecturers and Tutors	T3	66,169	662	573	89
2512	Medical Imaging Professionals	T1	22,391	896	49	847
2514	Optometrists and Orthoptists	T1	8,798	500	11	489
2519	Other Health Diagnostic and Promotion Professionals	T3	10,969	500	44	456
2521	Chiropractors and Osteopaths	T3	9,052	500	5	500
2524	Occupational Therapists	T1	29,799	1,192	184	1,008
2525	Physiotherapists	T1	47,783	1,911	358	1,553
2526	Podiatrists	T1	6,741	500	7	493
2527	Audiologists and Speech Pathologists	T1	26,525	1,061	67	994
2531	General Practitioners and Resident Medical Officers	T1	90,567	3,623	660	2,963
2533	Specialist Physicians	T1	14,449	578	105	473
2534	Psychiatrists	T1	7,816	500	69	431
2535	Surgeons	T1	11,374	500	23	477
2539	Other Medical Practitioners	T1	20,749	830	183	647
2541	Midwives	T1	22,832	913	58	855
2544	Registered Nurses	T1	348,233	13,929	3,539	10,390
2611	ICT Business and Systems Analysts	T4	43,169	500	2,018	0
2612	Multimedia Specialists and Web Developers	T4	12,642	500	213	287
2613	Software and Applications Programmers	T4	182,332	912	3,800	0
2621	Database and Systems Administrators and ICT Security Specialists	T4	68,049	500	643	0
2631	Computer Network Professionals	T4	43,895	500	756	0
2633	Telecommunications Engineering Professionals	T4	16,683	500	272	228
2711	Barristers	T3	8,811	500	5	500
2713	Solicitors	T3	94,263	943	93	850
2723	Psychologists	T2	52,778	1,056	64	992
2725	Social Workers	T2	50,447	1,009	133	876
3122	Civil Engineering Draftspersons and Technicians	T3	15,705	500	370	130
3123	Electrical Engineering Draftspersons and Technicians	T3	9,584	500	118	382
3132	Telecommunications Trades Workers	T4	3,633	500	62	438
3211	Automotive Electricians	T3	9,747	500	34	466
3212	Motor Mechanics	T3	109,684	1,097	1,178	0
3222	Sheetmetal Trades Workers	T3	6,617	500	14	486
3223	Structural Steel and Welding Trades Workers	T3	77,475	775	289	486
3232	Metal Fitters and Machinists	T3	124,440	1,244	371	873
3233	Precision Metal Trades Workers	T3	7,405	500	5	500
3241	Panelbeaters	T3	12,515	500	28	472
3311	Bricklayers and Stonemasons	T3	22,700	500	101	399
3312	Carpenters and Joiners	T3	148,137	1,481	573	908
3322	Painting Trades Workers	T3	52,310	523	292	231
3331	Glaziers	T3	7,826	500	21	479
3332	Plasterers	T3	31,772	500	50	450
3334	Wall and Floor Tilers	T3	21,015	500	137	363
3341	Plumbers	T3	104,672	1,047	156	891
3411	Electricians	T3	188,003	1,880	286	1,594
3421	Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Mechanics	T3	34,714	500	43	457
3422	Electrical Distribution Trades Workers	T3	12,536	500	15	485
3423	Electronics Trades Workers	T3	31,720	500	105	395
3513	Chefs	T4	120,827	604	3,110	0
3611	Animal Attendants and Trainers	T3	24,282	500	35	465
3941	Cabinetmakers	T3	39,329	500	44	456
3991	Boat Builders and Shipwrights	T3	2,467	500	17	483
4523	Sports Coaches Instructors and Officials	T3	58,755	588	66	522
4524	Sportspersons	T3	15,811	500	5	500

Grants to prior programs, by visa

“Grants (Prior)” counts main applicants granted a subclass 186, 190, 491 or 494 visa in 2024-25 in each unit group. Across the unit groups in this table, they split like this.

186Employer Nomination Scheme
14,476
Subclass 186 grants
190Skilled Nominated
14,103
Subclass 190 grants
491Skilled Work Regional (provisional)
7,042
Subclass 491 grants
494Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (provisional)
228
Subclass 494 grants

Breakdown from Department of Home Affairs BP0068. It can differ from the official figure by a few grants per unit group because of masking and later revisions.

Sources and method

Data Source: FOI document fa-260100545, obtained under the Freedom of Information Act 1982.

FY2026-27 estimate: ABS Labour Force EQ08 (employment by occupation), Department of Home Affairs BP0068 (subclass 494 grants, 2024-25) and data-access release DA 26/07/00368 (subclass 190 and 491 grants, 2025-26), using the method in FOI fa-260100545. Subclass 186 is estimated from 2025-26 nomination approvals to 31 May 2026 (Department of Home Affairs data-access release DA 26/06/00293).

View FOI document →View release DA 26/07/00368 →Read our analysis of the tier system and key findings →

189 occupation ceilings — frequently asked questions

Which 189 occupation groups are full after the 15 October 2026 round?: An estimated 9 of 87 groups are at or near their 189 ceiling after the 15 October 2026 round: University Lecturers and Tutors, Painting Trades Workers, Motor Mechanics, Environmental Scientists, Carpenters and Joiners, Actuaries Mathematicians and Statisticians, Database and Systems Administrators and ICT Security Specialists, Telecommunications Engineering Professionals and Electrical Engineering Draftspersons and Technicians. These are ImmiTrend estimates; occupations in a full group are unlikely to be invited again this program year unless 189 places are added.
What are the estimated occupation ceilings for 2026-27?: The Department hasn't published FY2026-27 ceilings yet, so ImmiTrend estimates them with the method in FOI fa-260100545: each occupation group's average ABS employment over FY2025-26 times its tier rate (4%, 2%, 1% or 0.5%, at least 500) gives the ceiling, and grants to subclasses 186, 190, 491 and 494 are then subtracted to give the remaining 189 places (subclass 186 is estimated from 2025-26 nomination approvals). The estimate leaves 56,163 places across 87 groups, and 11 groups have none. For example, Registered Nurses have an estimated ceiling of 14,528 and 11,561 remaining 189 places; Accountants have a ceiling of 1,112 but 0 remaining 189 places, because grants already exceed it. After the 15 October 2026 round, an estimated 16,711–22,685 of those places have gone to 189 invitations, leaving 34,811–39,977 (as of 23 October 2026). Official figures will replace these once released.
How many 189 places are left for my occupation in 2026-27?: Ceilings are set per ANZSCO unit group (the first four digits of your occupation code), so every occupation in a group shares its places: find your occupation in the A–Z list on this page to see its group. For each group, 'Remaining 189' is the estimated ceiling minus grants to subclasses 186, 190, 491 and 494, 'Invited (est.)' is ImmiTrend's estimate of 189 invitations already issued this program year, and 'Spots left (est.)' is the difference, shown as a range. Across all groups, an estimated 34,811–39,977 of 56,163 places are left after the 15 October 2026 round. These are estimates, so use them to compare groups rather than as an exact count.
What is a subclass 189 occupation ceiling?: An occupation ceiling is the maximum number of subclass 189 (Skilled Independent) invitations the Department of Home Affairs plans to issue for an occupation group in a financial year. Ceilings are set at the ANZSCO unit-group (4-digit) level, so related occupations share one cap. Once a group nears its ceiling, invitations for it slow or stop until the next program year.
Are these occupation ceilings official?: Only the FY2025-26 ceilings are official: they are the Department of Home Affairs' planning figures, released under Freedom of Information (FOI fa-260100545). The FY2026-27 figures this page opens on are ImmiTrend estimates, made with the same method from ABS employment data and Home Affairs grant and nomination releases; the Department has not published them. Both are planning figures, not guarantees: actual invitations depend on round sizes and the EOI pool.
When will the official 2026-27 occupation ceilings be released?: There is no announced release date. The FY2025-26 ceilings became public through a Freedom of Information release (FOI fa-260100545), not a scheduled publication. Until official FY2026-27 figures are available, this page shows ImmiTrend's estimate and updates the invitations used after each 189 round; the official figures will replace the estimate once released.
What happens when an occupation group reaches its ceiling?: Once a group's subclass 189 invitations reach its ceiling, no further 189 invitations are issued to any occupation in that group for the rest of the program year (to 30 June), whatever the points score. EOIs stay in SkillSelect and can be invited when the next program year's ceilings start on 1 July. A ceiling is a cap, not a target: many groups finish the year well under theirs.