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ACT Occupation List - Check Your Occupation & Apply Now!

Take the First Step Toward ACT Migration Success

  • Expert guidance in selecting the right ACT-eligible occupation
  • Professional support with ACT Matrix scoring and documentation
  • Real-time updates on ACT Occupation List changes and nomination rules
  • Personalized visa strategies for ACT 190 & 491 pathways
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ACT Occupation List Guide: Check Your Eligibility for ACT Nomination

The ACT Occupation List outlines the skills currently in demand in Canberra for Australia’s skilled migration programs. It plays a crucial role in determining eligibility for:

ACT Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)

Applicants can submit a Canberra Matrix even if their occupation is listed as closed, but points can only be claimed for open occupations.

Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS)

The ACT Occupation List supports Regional Certifying Body assessment under the Employer Nomination Scheme.
Note: The list does not guarantee employment. Applicants must independently ensure sufficient job opportunities exist in their nominated occupation.

ACT reviews occupational demand continuously and formally twice a year (February & August). Occupations may close without notice once demand is met.

Check Your Eligibility In 60 Seconds

Canberra Resident Eligibility – Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional Visa)

Key Requirements (from 1 January 2020):

  • Minimum 3 months of continuous ACT residence immediately before Matrix submission
  • Ongoing residence in Canberra until invitation
  • At least 3 months of continuous employment (20+ hrs/week) before submitting the Matrix

Canberra Resident Eligibility – Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa)

Updated Criteria (from 1 January 2020):

  • Minimum 6 months of continuous full-time paid employment (35+ hrs/week) in Canberra
  • Must meet any one of the following:
    • Nominated occupation is open on the ACT Occupation List
    • Primary 457/482 visa holder sponsored by an ACT employer (with 1-year validity remaining)
    • Five years of continuous ACT residence at the time of Matrix submission

Common Eligibility Changes for Both 190 & 491 (Canberra Residents)

Highly Skilled Employment Requirement

  • Minimum taxable income: $50,000 per year, OR
  • Minimum hourly rate: $26 per hour (excluding casual loading)
  • Employer must be actively operating in ACT for 1+ year

Matrix Score – Skill Level Claim

  • Skilled employment must be listed in SkillSelect EOI

Spouse Employment

  • Competent English mandatory for all claims
  • Skill assessment required if claiming points for employment in an open occupation

Overseas Applicants – Subclass 491 Eligibility

  • Current ACT nomination requirements continue to apply from 1 January 2020.

Overseas Applicants – Subclass 190 Eligibility

Applicants must meet one of the following:

  • A minimum one-year ACT employment contract in an open occupation, with an Australian medium/large employer (50+ employees), OR An academic appointment with an ACT tertiary institution
  • At least five years of continuous ACT residence within the last eight years

For this category, the nominated occupation may be open or closed.

Common Changes for Overseas 190 & 491 Applicants

Eligibility

  • Applicant must be offshore at the time of Matrix submission
  • If invited, applicant must still be overseas at the time of submitting the nomination application

Matrix Category: Relevant Work Experience

  • Claims must be supported by a current Skill Assessment with points advice
  • Experience must be listed in SkillSelect EOI
  • 10 years continuous relevant experience = 20 Matrix points

Spouse/Partner Employment

  • A skill assessment relevant to an open occupation is now mandatory
  • Caveats may apply depending on the occupation
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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the ACT Occupation List?

The ACT Occupation List is a demand-based list that shows which skills and professions are currently needed in Canberra for skilled migration. It helps determine eligibility for ACT nomination under visas like Subclass 190 and 491. Only occupations marked as “open” allow applicants to claim Matrix points. The list is updated regularly based on labour market needs.

2. How often is the ACT Occupation List updated?

The ACT government reviews the occupation demand twice a year, typically in February and August. However, occupations can change to “closed” without prior notice if demand is met. Continuous monitoring ensures the list accurately reflects Canberra’s workforce needs. Applicants must always check the latest status before submitting a Matrix.

3. What does it mean if an occupation is ‘open’ or ‘closed’ on the ACT list?

An “open” occupation means applicants can claim Matrix points and may be eligible for ACT nomination. A “closed” occupation indicates high saturation or limited demand, so points cannot be claimed under that category. While you can still submit a Matrix, closed occupations reduce your chances of receiving an invitation. The open/closed status impacts both 190 and 491 eligibility.

4. Can overseas applicants apply if their occupation is listed as closed?

Yes, overseas applicants can apply, but a closed occupation significantly limits eligibility. For Subclass 190, overseas candidates must either hold a valid ACT job offer in an open occupation or meet long-term residency history criteria. Closed occupations do not provide extra Matrix points, reducing the likelihood of nomination. It’s essential to meet additional requirements to stay competitive.

5. How does the ACT Occupation List affect Canberra Matrix points?

Your nominated occupation’s status directly influences the points you can claim under the Matrix system. Applicants with occupations listed as “open” may score higher points, improving the chance of receiving an invitation. Closed occupations do not offer points, so the Matrix score may be lower. This makes occupation status a key factor in overall nomination success.