Direction 122 does not, in itself, change the mix of invited occupations; this instrument only determines the processing order for lodged applications and explicitly leaves the occupation lists and eligibility criteria untouched. However, the mix of invited occupations does change in practice from one round to another, driven by migration program levels, annual occupation ceilings, and the prioritisation of specific roles.
Negin Safaee, Registered Migration Agent (MARA 1791573), emphasises a key distinction in this regard that many applicants often conflate: an “invitation” and “processing priority” are two entirely separate mechanisms. Direction 122 operates within the latter, not the former.
189 visa invitations continue to be issued based on points ranking, annual occupation ceilings—which are reset every 1 July—and the Department’s targeting of specific occupations. This is why the mix of invited occupations and the minimum points required vary from round to round; for instance, in the 4 June 2026 round, the minimum points varied between 65 and 100 depending on the occupation. The official SkillSelect page also clearly states that the number of invitations issued and the occupations included in each round vary based on Australia’s economic needs, the volume of applications on hand with the Department, and the occupation ceilings set by the Government; in other words, the list of included occupations itself is variable, not just the number of invitations.
In contrast, the real and measurable impact of Direction 122 is on the “speed of post-lodgement decision-making.” This direction has expanded the priority categories to seven, adding agriculture, aquaculture, fisheries, and resources; it has also removed the “onshore” requirement from the priority criteria for key occupations. The priority structure is as follows: Priority 1 for construction, healthcare, teaching, agriculture/aquaculture/fisheries/resources, or those serving public order and defence interests; Priority 2 for applicants located onshore; Priority 3 for primary applicants offshore with non-combined applications; and Priority 4 for all other applications. This arrangement can affect the composition of visas granted within a program year, even if it does not directly dictate the mix of invitations.
From a legal perspective, one must be precise: the framework for this policy is not merely a political statement, but rather the preamble to directions issued under section 499, which emphasises selecting individuals who contribute positively to the Australian economy and labour market and assist businesses in accessing skills not met by the domestic market. Accordingly, any assessment regarding the trend of future rounds should be conducted only after the official release of the 15 October 2026 round results—including the number of invitations and minimum points per occupation—and not before.
If you would like to understand which priority category your occupation falls into and plan your 189 visa application with realism and peace of mind, a professional, personalised consultation can clarify the path ahead.
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This answer reflects the law and policy as verified on October 27, 2026. Immigration rules change frequently — confirm the current position before acting.
Mrs. Negin Safaee Registered Migration Agent 1791573
This article is general information only, current at the date shown, and is not legal advice. Do not rely on it for your own situation — immigration law and policy change frequently. Seek advice from a registered migration agent or immigration lawyer about your circumstances.