Because every state and territory in Australia runs its own nomination program, with its own occupation lists and its own selection criteria. Victoria, for example, ranks every Registration of Interest (ROI) using the “Victorian points test” for subclass 190 and 491. So an identical occupation can enjoy strong prospects in one state while facing quite different requirements — and a different outcome — in another.
Negin Safaee, Registered Migration Agent (MARA 1791573), regards this distinction as the key to properly understanding state-nominated skilled migration: state nomination is not a single uniform national policy, but a collection of independent programs, each designed around the labour market needs and priorities of that particular state.
In Victoria, the state points test weighs several factors together: age, English language ability, work experience, qualifications, the skill level of the occupation, partner skills, and “annual income from skilled employment in Victoria, if any”. Victoria’s official table shows that income points begin at 8 points for the $80,000 to $84,999 band and rise as income increases, up to a maximum of 150 points.
An important point Negin Safaee emphasises is that income in Victoria is not a mandatory threshold; it is simply one of the ROI ranking factors, and not having it does not, in itself, make you ineligible. Victoria also accepts applicants residing outside Australia, and for subclass 190 holding a job is not a requirement; in practice, the income points are a competitive advantage for those who are already in skilled employment in Victoria.
The same logic applies to New South Wales and South Australia, but comparing an occupation’s prospects across these states is only reliable when it draws directly on the official skilled migration program pages of the states in question. Relying on commercial sources and unofficial interpretations can paint an inaccurate picture of where you genuinely stand.
It is also worth bearing in mind that state nomination decisions are governed by their own internal administrative procedures; any definitive statement about whether a nomination decision can or cannot be reviewed therefore only carries weight when it refers to the official, confirmed procedure of that particular authority.
If you would like to know which state truly offers your occupation the best nomination prospects, and which factors you can strengthen, a tailored, one-on-one consultation with Negin Safaee can bring clarity to your pathway and peace of mind to your decision.
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This answer reflects the law and policy as verified on October 29, 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.