The Department of Home Affairs is implementing its annual indexation framework, tied directly to national wage growth data (Average Weekly Ordinary Time Earnings). The new income thresholds for employer-sponsored visas apply strictly to new nomination applications lodged on or after 1 July 2026.
These increase will impact the Subclass 482, Subclass 186 and Subclass 494 visas.
- Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT) increase from $76,515 to $79,499 (subclass 482 & 494 visa)
- Specialist Skills Income Threshold (SSIT) increase from $141,210 to $146,717 (subclass 482 visa
These updates do not retroactively apply to existing visa holders or to nominations successfully lodged before 30 June 2026. If a business has an application currently sitting in the queue, it will be assessed against the older rate.
Employers must keep in mind that meeting the baseline threshold is only half the battle. Employers must still satisfy the Annual Market Salary Rate (AMSR).
In addition, the turn of the financial year on 1 July 2026 will bring the standard Consumer Price Index (CPI) adjustment. Expect a minor indexation increase of roughly 3% to 4% across most baseline skilled and family visa application fees.
Any application successfully paid and submitted via ImmiAccount before midnight on 30 June will lock in current pricing.