South Australia’s Skilled and Business Migration (SBM) program has announced it will operate with limited interim allocations for the start of the 2025-26 program year, affecting new Registration of Interest (ROI) applications and state nomination invitations.
Key Announcement Details
The Commonwealth Government has provided South Australia with only a small interim allocation for the 2025-26 program year, prompting significant changes to how the state will manage its nomination program in the coming months.
Immediate Impact on ROI Applications
Critical Update: South Australia will NOT open for new Registration of Interest (ROI) applications during this interim period. This represents a significant departure from normal operations and affects all prospective applicants planning to submit new ROIs.
Focus on Existing ROI Pool
Instead of accepting new applications, SBM will concentrate on:
- Reviewing and inviting strong applicants from the existing ROI pool
- Prioritizing candidates who submitted ROIs during the 2024-25 program year
- Focusing on applicants contributing to South Australia’s workforce requirements
What This Means for Different Applicant Groups
For New Applicants
If you haven’t yet submitted an ROI to South Australia:
- You cannot submit a new ROI during this interim period
- Monitor the SA Migration website for updates on when applications reopen
- Use this time to strengthen your application for when submissions resume
- Consider improving English scores, gaining additional work experience, or obtaining skills assessments
For Existing ROI Holders
If you submitted an ROI during the 2024-25 program year:
- Your ROI remains active and under consideration
- You may receive an invitation during this interim period
- Ensure your contact details are up to date in the system
- Keep all supporting documents current and ready
For Those with Pending Applications
If you already have a nomination application in progress:
- Processing continues as normal
- The interim allocation doesn’t affect applications already lodged
- Continue to respond promptly to any requests for additional information
Understanding Interim Allocations
What Are Interim Allocations?
Interim allocations are temporary nomination places provided by the Commonwealth Government at the start of a new program year while full allocations are being finalized. They allow states to continue limited operations while awaiting their full quota.
Why Are They Limited?
The Commonwealth typically provides small interim allocations to:
- Maintain program continuity
- Allow processing of critical cases
- Bridge the gap until full allocations are announced
- Enable states to plan their programs effectively
Strategic Considerations for South Australia
Workforce Priorities
During this interim period, South Australia is likely to prioritize:
- Healthcare professionals addressing critical shortages
- Engineers and IT specialists supporting key industries
- Teachers meeting education sector needs
- Trade occupations supporting infrastructure projects
- Applicants with confirmed job offers in South Australia
Selection Criteria Focus
With limited places available, expect heightened focus on:
- Strong English language proficiency (Proficient or Superior)
- Extensive relevant work experience
- Direct alignment with state workforce needs
- Existing connections to South Australia
- High points scores for Subclass 190 and 491 eligibility
Timeline Expectations
Current Interim Period
- Start: Beginning of 2025-26 program year (July 1, 2025)
- Duration: Unknown - dependent on Commonwealth announcement
- Activity: Limited invitations from existing ROI pool only
Full Allocation Announcement
Based on previous years, full allocations typically announced:
- Between August and October
- Sometimes as late as November
- Occasionally in tranches throughout the year
Policy Settings Release
Once full allocations are received, South Australia will:
- Announce complete policy settings for 2025-26
- Potentially update occupation lists
- Clarify eligibility requirements
- Reopen ROI submissions (if allocation permits)
Comparison with Other States
How Other States Are Managing
Different states handle interim periods differently:
- Victoria: Often closes completely until full allocations
- New South Wales: May continue with limited pathways
- Queensland: Typically maintains restricted operations
- Western Australia: Usually continues with reduced invitations
South Australia’s Approach
SA’s decision to focus on existing ROIs rather than accepting new applications suggests:
- Significant backlog from 2024-25
- Strategic management of limited resources
- Commitment to processing quality applications already received
Preparing for When ROIs Reopen
Documentation Preparation
Use this waiting period productively:
Skills Assessment
- Obtain or update your skills assessment
- Ensure it covers your full work experience
- Check validity periods
English Testing
- Aim for Proficient (10 points) or Superior (20 points)
- Consider the new test options available from August 2025
- Book tests early as slots fill quickly
Work Experience
- Document all employment thoroughly
- Obtain detailed reference letters
- Gather payslips and tax documents
South Australia Connections
- Research SA employers in your field
- Join SA professional networks
- Consider SA study options if applicable
Points Maximization
Calculate your points using our Points Calculator and identify improvement areas:
- Partner skills assessment (10 points)
- NAATI CCL test (5 points)
- Professional Year (5 points)
- Regional study (5 points)
Monitoring Updates
Official Channels
Stay informed through:
- SA Migration News & Events
- Department of Home Affairs
- Official migration agent communications
- State nomination specific forums
What to Watch For
Key announcements to monitor:
- Full allocation numbers for 2025-26
- Updated occupation lists
- Changed eligibility criteria
- ROI reopening dates
- Processing priority changes
Impact on Visa Processing
For Subclass 190
The Skilled Nominated visa (190) implications:
- Fewer nominations available initially
- Higher competition for places
- Potentially higher selection thresholds
- Longer waiting times for invitations
For Subclass 491
The Skilled Work Regional visa (491) considerations:
- May receive priority in regional areas
- Could have different thresholds than 190
- Regional employment offers may be advantageous
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I submit an EOI to Home Affairs?
Yes, you can still submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to the Department of Home Affairs for the federal skilled migration program. The SA ROI is separate from the federal EOI.
Will my 2024-25 ROI expire?
Check SA’s specific validity periods. Most ROIs remain valid for 6-12 months unless withdrawn or an invitation is issued.
Should I consider other states?
Diversifying your options is prudent. Research requirements for:
- Victoria’s skilled program
- NSW pathways
- Queensland’s programs
- Tasmania’s opportunities
When will full allocations be announced?
The Commonwealth hasn’t provided a specific date. Based on previous years, expect announcements between August-October 2025.
Key Takeaways
- No new ROIs accepted - SA is closed for new registrations during the interim period
- Existing ROIs remain active - 2024-25 submissions are still being considered
- Limited invitations only - Focus on strong candidates meeting workforce needs
- Full program pending - Complete 2025-26 settings await Commonwealth allocation
- Stay informed - Monitor official channels for updates
Next Steps for Applicants
Immediate Actions
- If you have an existing ROI: Keep documents current and contact details updated
- If planning to apply: Prepare documentation and improve your profile
- All applicants: Monitor SA Migration website regularly
Long-term Planning
Consider alternative pathways while waiting:
- Employer sponsorship opportunities
- Other state nomination programs
- Federal skilled independent options
- Regional visa alternatives
Conclusion
South Australia’s limited interim allocation for 2025-26 represents a temporary constraint rather than a permanent closure. While challenging for new applicants eager to submit ROIs, this period offers an opportunity to strengthen applications and prepare thoroughly for when the program fully reopens.
The focus on existing ROI holders suggests SA is committed to processing quality applications already received before opening to new submissions. This measured approach may ultimately benefit all applicants by ensuring the state can manage its program effectively within available resources.
Stay patient, stay prepared, and stay informed. The full 2025-26 program announcement will provide clarity on South Australia’s complete nomination strategy for the year ahead.
Last updated: September 5, 2025. This article is based on information available at the time of publication. Always refer to the official SA Migration website for the most current information.
