Australia in 2026: Skilled jobs

Thinking of making Australia your new home? 

Understanding which jobs are most in demand and align with visa pathways like Subclass 189, 190 and 491 is your first step. These pathways are part of the skilled migrant visa program, which is designed for skilled migrants, qualified professionals seeking to move to Australia under the skilled migration program. 

If you are planning to move to Australia, choosing the correct visa is crucial and should be based on your occupation and migration goals. In this guide, you’ll find key sectors where skilled professionals are most needed and what the skilled visa process looks like in 2026.

Introduction to Australia's skilled visas

Australia’s skilled migration programme is one of the world’s most structured systems for attracting global talent. It ensures the country fills critical labour shortages while supporting long-term economic growth, especially in healthcare, engineering, construction, technology and education.

The most popular skilled visas include:

1. Skilled Independent visa (Subclass 189): Does not require employer or state sponsorship. Ideal for highly skilled applicants with strong points.

2. Skilled Nominated visa (Subclass 190): Requires state or territory nomination and often prioritises occupations facing local shortages.

3. Skilled Work Regional visa (Subclass 491): A provisional visa encouraging migrants to live and work in regional Australia. Offers a pathway to PR after meeting income and residency criteria.

These visas are points-tested, with eligibility assessed on:

• Age
• English proficiency
• Skilled work experience
• Education
• Partner skills
• State nomination

Applicants must also match their occupation to the correct ANZSCO code on the:

• Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL)
• Short-Term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL)
• Regional Occupation List (ROL) 

Researching these lists will help you determine your eligibility and best possible PR pathway.

In-demand occupations in Australia for 2026

Australia’s skills shortage trends show consistent demand across sectors such as healthcare, engineering, trades, IT, mining, education and social services. Here are the occupations most likely to remain on the Skilled Occupation List in 2026.

1. Healthcare and medical specialists

These roles are consistently high-priority on Australia's Medium and Long-Term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL), making them a strong fit for PR pathways.

• Registered nurses
• General practitioners
• Physiotherapists
• Medical diagnostic radiographers
• Aged care workers 

2. Information technology and digital roles

Australia’s booming tech sector needs professionals who add innovation and secure digital infrastructure:

• Software engineers
• ICT business analysts
• Cybersecurity specialists
• Systems administrators
• Web developers

3. Engineering and infrastructure experts

Investments in infrastructure and resources have elevated demand for all types of engineers such as civil, mechanical, electrical, structural and mining engineers 

4. Skilled trades and technical workers

Tradespeople are vital across growing industries such as construction, manufacturing and renewable energy especially electricians, plumbers, carpenters, welders, motor mechanics
These roles often qualify under both the STSOL and Regional Occupation List (ROL). 

5. Education qualified professionals

Schools, especially in regional areas, struggle to find enough teachers. Key roles include:

• Secondary school teachers
• Early childhood educators
• Special education teachers

Listed under the ROL, they may also enable regional visa eligibility. 

6. Sustainability, mining and logistics specialists

Australia’s push toward sustainability and continued resource development has increased demand in these areas:

• Environmental scientists/managers, geologists, life scientists
• Mining engineers, chemical engineers, power plant operators
• Transport engineers, pilots, fleet managers

Often eligible across visa lists due to their strategic roles in national industry. 

7. Creative, legal and healthcare support sectors

Diverse roles also face strong demand, including:

• Advertising specialists, video producers, marketing professionals
• Solicitors, internal/external auditors, risk analysts
• Psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, youth workers

These occupations address critical societal needs and can pave the way to migration opportunities.

If you’re ready to move to Australia, explore our guide on the best cities to live in across the country.

Frequently asked question

1. How do I check if my profession is on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List?    

Visit the Department of Home Affairs website and search the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) to check if your occupation appears on the MLTSSL, STSOL or ROL. Be sure to match the correct ANZSCO code and assess authority to confirm visa eligibility.

2. Which jobs are most in-demand in Australia for 2026? 

Jobs such as early childhood teachers, registered nurses, electricians, childcare workers are highly sought after in Australia.

3. Do UK citizens need a skilled visa to move to Australia?

Yes. Brits wanting to move to Australia do need a visa.  

4. Does Australia accept dual citizenship?

Yes, Australia allows dual citizenship. 
If your home country also allows it, you may hold both passports after meeting residency and citizenship requirements in Australia.

5. How long does Australia’s skilled visa processing take?

Processing times vary depending on the visa subclass and demand:

• Subclass 189: 6–18 months
• Subclass 190: 6–12 months
• Subclass 491: 9–15 months

Ready to move to Australia in 2026?

Whether you’re heading to Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane or regional Western Australia, Pickfords makes your international relocation seamless.
Pickfords specialises in international removals and offers expert support for your move. 

 Get your free international moving quote and take the first step toward your life in Australia.