Two new directions reset the processing order for skilled visas

Both directions were signed by the Minister for Home Affairs on 18 September 2026 under section 499 of the Migration Act 1958 and each commences on the day after it is signed, so both took effect on 19 September 2026.

Direction	Covers	Revokes
121	Certain temporary skilled visas	Direction 119, dated 24 July 2026
122	Certain provisional and permanent skilled visas	Carries no revocation clause of its own

They apply to applications already lodged

Each direction says, in the same words, that to avoid doubt, this Direction applies to visa applications made, but not finally determined, before the commencement of this Direction, and to visa applications made on or after commencement. An application sitting undecided on 19 September 2026 was moved onto the new order that day.

Where priority sits

Both preambles give priority processing to occupations in Construction, Healthcare, Teaching, Agriculture, Aquaculture, Fishing, and Resources sectors, and in Australia’s law enforcement and defence interests. Direction 121 adds a further priority for the Specialist Skills stream. In the remaining sectors, priority goes to applicants already contributing to Australia ahead of all other applicants.

Each direction states that it does not change the composition of the skilled migration occupation lists, and that applicants must still meet the requirements in the Act and the Regulations.

What each direction does not reach

Neither applies to an application remitted by the Administrative Review Tribunal for reconsideration, nor to one where the Tribunal set a decision aside and substituted its own, nor where it is readily apparent the criteria for grant would not be satisfied. Both also carve out a family unit applicant who did not lodge a combined application where the primary holder was in Australia when they applied, and neither binds the Tribunal itself.