Australia’s housing crisis is too often blamed on migrants, but the evidence tells a very different story. Most new arrivals rent for years before even considering a purchase, with only 15–20% becoming homeowners within their first five years. Migrants are far more likely to fill skills gaps in critical sectors than drive house prices.
The real culprits lie elsewhere: housing assets are increasingly concentrated among wealthy investors and corporations, supercharged by policies like negative gearing and short-stay rental tax breaks. Supply shortages, restrictive planning approvals, and years-long development delays keep demand running far ahead of available homes. Grants and stamp duty concessions have only added fuel, boosting demand without tackling the root problem.
Migrants are not the problem, we are part of the solution. By filling essential roles in healthcare, technology, and infrastructure, migrants strengthen Australia’s economy, support services, and help communities thrive. The housing debate should focus on fixing systemic supply and investment issues, not scapegoating those who contribute so much to Australia’s future.
In the midst of rising debates around migration and workforce planning, the Australian Government has confirmed a stable planning level of 185,000 permanent visas for the 2025–26 program year. According to the Minister for Home Affairs, this planning level reflects national consultation with states and territories. It prioritises stability while Australia transitions toward a new Skills in Demand visa framework.
This steady decision brings two big benefits you should know about:
- Clear direction ahead so you can plan your visa steps with confidence.
- Stability for applicants and employers encouraging smoother processing and preparation.
Key Facts: 2025–26 Migration Program at a Glance
- 185,000 total places remain available for permanent visas in 2025–26, unchanged from last year.
- This is the number of people who can become permanent residents, covering skilled workers, family members like partners and parents, and special eligibility cases.
- About 132,200 places (71%) go to the Skilled stream, which includes employer-sponsored, state-nominated, and independent skilled visas.
- The Family stream holds about 52,500 places (28%), for partner and child visas, among others.
- A small number, about 300 places, are set aside for special eligibility cases.
- This year, Australia introduced the National Innovation Visa, replacing the old Global Talent and Business Innovation categories.
Visa Subclass Breakdown
Visa Stream | Visa Category | 2025–26 Planning levels |
Skill | 44,000 | |
16,900 | ||
33,000 | ||
33,000 | ||
Business Innovation & Investment (closed for new applicants) | 1,000 | |
4,300 | ||
Skill Total | 132,200 | |
Family | 40,500 | |
Parent | 8,500 | |
Child | 3,000 | |
Other Family | 500 | |
Family Total | 52,500 | |
Special Eligibility | 300 | |
Total Migration Program | 185,000 |
Migration Program Breakdown (Visual)
What This Means for You as a Skilled Migrant, Partner, or Employer
Reliable visa pathways remain open. Whether you’re pursuing a Skilled Independent (189), Employer Nomination (186), or Partner visa, your options are secure.
- Planning made easy. With numbers unchanged, visa agents and employers can coordinate smoothly.
- Skilled workers are still in demand. If your occupation is needed in Australia, your chances remain strong.
- Special opportunities like the new Innovation Visa are available. If you’re an entrepreneur, researcher, or tech specialist, this is worth exploring.
Ready to Take the Next Step Towards Australian PR?
- Check which stream is right for you. Skilled? Family? Innovation? Each has different requirements.
- Review the current visa rules. Skill assessments, Occupational Lists, sponsorship requirements know what applies to your pathway.
- Consider regional options. Many state or regional nominations can boost your chances.
- Get professional support. People underestimate the importance and helpfulness of a specialist in any field. Similarly, a migration agent can help you align your application to the current allocations and give expert advice and guidance throughout the journey.
- Act now. With competition high, preparation and timing are key to success.
How Ten Heads Immigration Can Help
At Ten Heads Immigration, we help you move beyond confusion and into clear, informed action.
Whether you’re:
- Preparing your Skill Assessment or EOI, and seeking answers to common visa questions,
- Looking to reassess your points and visa strategy,
- Considering alternative pathways like Employer-Sponsored or the new National Innovation Visa…
We provide expert advice and hands-on support across every step of your PR journey.
Here’s how we help:
- Skill Assessment assistance across assessing bodies (ACS, VETASSESS, AHPRA, etc.)
- EOI lodgement strategy tailored to your occupation and age
- State Nomination guidance for SC190 and SC491 if relevant
- Backup options: Employer sponsorship or partner pathways if your skilled profile isn’t competitive yet
Ready to explore your PR options?
Book a consultation with Ten Heads Immigration today and take the first confident step towards your Australian future.
“[Ten Heads] helped us to get the permanent residency and were very upfront and clear with the options that were available and the pitfalls in each option. Provided clear feedback on each step and assisted wherever required. I highly recommend their service for anyone who is looking for assistance with their visa application.”
– Sajin C
Ten Heads Immigration Consultants | MARN 1575911 & 2318052
