ACT (Australian Capital Territory) state nomination is a gateway to the 190 and 491 visas in Canberra. ACT nomination uses its own Matrix system. This article explains it in detail.
How ACT state nomination works
ACT nomination is managed by the ACT Skilled Migration Program (an agency under the Chief Minister, Treasury and Economic Development Directorate). ACT is also recognised as a designated regional area for the 491 visa – Canberra earns 15 points.
ACT nomination uses its own ranking system (the ACT Skilled Migration Matrix) to rank candidates. This differs from how most other states invite based purely on the points test.
ACT nomination criteria
The ACT Matrix system scores candidates on criteria such as: ACT Nominator (having lived in ACT), Skilled Employment (working in ACT, priority given to matching occupations), English, education (especially studying in Canberra), and partner (spouse with Skilled Employment in ACT).
ACT has a Critical Skills List – a priority occupation list with lighter requirements. People working in occupations on the Critical Skills List have a better chance of nomination even with an average Matrix score.
Notes for Vietnamese applicants
Canberra is Australia’s capital, with a high proportion of government and public-service employment. ACT nomination suits people working in the public sector, government IT, education, research and healthcare.
Canberra’s cost of living is the third-highest in Australia after Sydney and Melbourne. The Vietnamese community in Canberra is moderate in size. The Matrix and Critical Skills List rules may change; you should check the official ACT website.
You should refer to official Home Affairs website and Home Affairs – Skilled visas to check current conditions.
Summary
ACT state nomination (ACT Skilled Migration Program) for the 190 and 491 visas. Canberra is a designated regional area for the 491 (15 bonus points). It uses its own Matrix ranking system (unlike a pure points-test invitation). The Critical Skills List has lighter requirements. It suits the public sector, government IT, education, research and healthcare. Cost of living is the third-highest in Australia. The Vietnamese community is moderate in size.
