No; the criteria for Priority 1 is not the general title of “healthcare,” but rather whether the occupation falls under specific ANZSCO/OSCA groups: Sub-major Group 25 (Health Professionals), Minor Group 411, and unit groups 2346, 2721, 2723, 2725, 3112, along with codes 423111, 423312, and 423313. Health Service Managers, who fall under group 1342, are excluded from this list.
This analysis reflects the professional perspective of Negin Safaee, Registered Migration Agent (MARA 1791573), who for years has assessed skilled migration cases based strictly on the text of legislative instruments and occupation codes, rather than common misconceptions about the “healthcare industry.” This is the crucial point: what determines priority is the classification of the nominated occupation, not the employer’s industry or whether the individual provides direct patient care.
For this reason, doctors, nurses, midwives, pharmacists, occupational therapists, speech pathologists, and audiologists—all within Sub-major Group 25—as well as medical, laboratory, and operating theatre technicians (code 3112) fall within the health category. Counsellors (2721), psychologists (2723), and social workers (2725) are also in this group, even if they are not “clinical therapists” in the traditional sense; the same applies to health and welfare support workers (group 411) and aged and disabled carers. Conversely, the Nursing Clinical Director (code 134211)—despite its clinical nature—and the Primary Health Organisation Manager (code 134212) are both classified under group 1342 (Health and Welfare Services Managers) and are therefore not included in the health group list.
The issue of professional registration must also be viewed in its proper context: registration status does not play a role in determining priority under the Directions themselves. Where it becomes important is state nomination; for example, Victoria requires that the nominated occupation of a health professional aligns with their AHPRA registration.
As of 19 September 2026, Ministerial Directions 121 and 122 place eligible healthcare occupations in Priority 1, regardless of whether the primary applicant is onshore or offshore at the time of lodgement. This is a clear departure from the previous situation under Ministerial Direction 119, which made health priority conditional upon the applicant’s presence in Australia.
One important distinction that offers peace of mind: priority is strictly about “processing order,” not eligibility or a guarantee of approval; the applicant must still meet all legal requirements. State industry priorities are also a separate system; for 2026-27, Victoria has prioritised four industries—healthcare, social support services, education, and construction—but only those occupations listed within each industry are included, and this priority does not guarantee an invitation.
If you would like to know exactly where your occupation code fits within this framework and what your most intelligent pathway is, a brief and personal consultation with Negin Safaee, Registered Migration Agent (MARA 1791573) can provide a complete picture of your case’s real position.
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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.