From 1 July 2026, the Australian Government officially indexed minimum income thresholds across all employer-sponsored skilled visa programs. This annual adjustment aligns foreign worker salaries with Australian wage growth and current labor market realities.
These changes directly affect employers and applicants preparing nominations for Subclass 482, Subclass 186, Subclass 494, and Subclass 187 visas.
Why Are Income Thresholds Indexed?
Each year, skilled income thresholds are indexed against the Average Weekly Ordinary Time Earnings (AWOTE). This statutory mechanism ensures sponsored overseas workers receive remuneration commensurate with prevailing Australian market standards and prevents wage suppression.
All nomination applications lodged on or after 1 July 2026 must meet or exceed these revised benchmarks.
Updated Income Thresholds Effective 1 July 2026
1. Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT)
The minimum salary for the Core Skills Stream increases to AUD 79,423 per annum. This threshold applies to the Subclass 482 Core Skills Stream and Subclass 186 Employer Nomination Scheme.
2. Specialist Skills Income Threshold (SSIT)
For high-earning professionals under the Specialist Skills Stream, the threshold is raised to AUD 146,576 per annum.
3. Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT)
The TSMIT baseline is similarly adjusted to AUD 79,423 per annum, governing Subclass 494 Regional Sponsored and remaining Subclass 187 nomination streams.
Compliance Essentials for Employers
Employers lodging new sponsorship nominations must guarantee that the guaranteed Annual Market Salary Rate (AMSR) is at or above the new threshold. If contractual remuneration falls short, the nomination will be refused under statutory criteria.
Key Considerations for Skilled Workers
For overseas workers seeking permanent residency transitions through Subclass 482 TRT or direct Subclass 186 entry, reviewing employment contracts and wage package structures prior to lodgement is essential to maintain full compliance with Department of Home Affairs guidelines.
