June SkillSelect Invitation Round Results: What Migrants Need to Know
The June SkillSelect invitation round has confirmed a clear direction for Australia’s skilled migration program - one that is becoming increasingly selective, strategic, and focused on real workforce needs rather than volume alone.
For many applicants, this shift has made the Expression of Interest (EOI) process more competitive and less predictable. However, it has also created opportunities for candidates who understand how the system is evolving and adapt their strategy accordingly.
In this update, we break down the key outcomes from the June round and what they mean for your chances of receiving an invitation.
Invitations Remain Highly Targeted
One of the most significant trends from the June round is the continued move away from large, general invitation rounds.
Instead, the Department is issuing invitations in a much more targeted way. This means:
Invitations are focused on specific occupations
Priority sectors are consistently favoured
Some invitations are issued in smaller, less visible batches
This approach reflects a broader policy direction - aligning migration outcomes with Australia’s economic priorities.
For applicants, this means simply meeting the eligibility criteria is no longer enough. Strategy matters more than ever.
Priority Occupations Continue to Lead
The June round reinforced the dominance of key sectors in the invitation process.
Occupations that continue to receive strong attention include:
Healthcare and medical professions
Engineering roles
Information technology specialists
Construction and trades
Education, particularly in regional areas
Candidates in these sectors generally benefit from faster invitations and lower points thresholds compared to other occupations.
Meanwhile, applicants in non-priority occupations may wait significantly longer, even with strong EOI profiles.
Points Thresholds Remain High
Points remain one of the biggest challenges for applicants, especially for the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189).
There is no universal cut-off, but current trends show:
Minimum 65 points is rarely sufficient on its own
Competitive candidates typically hold between 80 and 100+ points
Highly competitive occupations often require the highest scores in the pool
This has pushed many applicants to actively improve their profiles, focusing on:
Higher English test scores
Additional work experience
Partner points
Professional year programs
In many cases, even small increases in points can make a significant difference.
State Nomination Is Becoming Essential
The June results highlight a major shift - state and territory nomination is no longer a secondary pathway for many applicants. It is becoming the primary strategy.
With limited invitations for subclass 189, many candidates are turning to:
Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated visa)
Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional visa)
States are prioritising applicants who:
Are already living and working locally
Have experience in high-demand occupations
Can contribute immediately to the local workforce
As a result, state nomination is now one of the most effective ways to secure an invitation.
Onshore Applicants Remain in a Strong Position
Another clear pattern is the continued advantage for applicants already in Australia.
Onshore candidates benefit from:
Australian work experience
Stronger alignment with employer needs
Better access to state nomination programs
This trend is consistent with the broader migration program, which is prioritising candidates already contributing to the economy.
For offshore applicants, this does not mean opportunities are closed - but competition is significantly tougher, and strategy becomes even more important.
Examples of Occupations and Typical Points
To better understand how the June round is playing out in practice, it is helpful to look at indicative points ranges across different occupations.
These figures are based on recent invitation trends and should be used as a guide rather than fixed cut-offs.
Healthcare and Medical
Registered Nurse (various specialisations): 65 - 75+ points
General Practitioner / Medical Officer: 65 - 70+ points
These occupations continue to receive invitations at relatively lower scores due to strong and ongoing demand.
Engineering
Civil Engineer: 85 - 95+ points
Electrical Engineer: 80 - 90+ points
Mechanical Engineer: 85 - 95+ points
Engineering remains a priority, but competition is strong, especially for subclass 189 applicants.
IT and Technology
Software Engineer / Developer: 90 - 100+ points
ICT Business Analyst: 85 - 95+ points
Cyber Security Specialist: 80 - 95+ points
IT professionals face some of the highest points requirements in the system despite ongoing demand.
Trades and Construction
Electrician: 65 - 80+ points
Carpenter / Joiner: 65 - 75+ points
Plumber: 65 - 75+ points
Many trade occupations benefit significantly from state nomination, particularly in regional areas.
Education
Secondary School Teacher: 70 - 85+ points
Early Childhood Teacher: 65 - 75+ points
Teachers, especially in STEM subjects and early childhood education, are consistently in demand.
Accounting and Business
Accountant (General): 95 - 100+ points
Auditor: 90 - 100+ points
Marketing Specialist: 85 - 95+ points
These occupations remain among the most competitive, with high points and fewer invitations.
Key Takeaways from These Examples
The June round highlights a clear divide between sectors:
65 - 75 points may be enough for high-demand occupations
80 - 90 points is competitive for many technical roles
90 - 100+ points is often required for highly competitive professions
Understanding where your occupation sits is critical when planning your migration strategy.
What You Should Do Next
If you are currently in the EOI pool or planning to apply, the June results provide a clear roadmap.
1. Maximise Your Points
Look for every opportunity to improve your score, including English tests and partner points.
2. Explore State Nomination Early
Do not rely only on subclass 189. State pathways can significantly improve your chances.
3. Align with Demand
If possible, position your experience in occupations that are currently prioritised.
4. Strengthen Your Profile
Australian work experience, regional employment, and relevant qualifications can all make a difference.
Final Thoughts
The June SkillSelect round confirms that Australia’s migration system is becoming more sophisticated and selective.
While this increases competition, it also rewards applicants who take a strategic approach. Those who understand the trends, optimise their profiles, and explore all available pathways remain well positioned to succeed.
If you are unsure about your current EOI or want to improve your chances in the next rounds, seeking professional advice can be the key to turning your application into an invitation.
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Contact us: https://www.mondomigration.com.au/contact
🔗 Learn more the Skilled Migration Program
https://www.mondomigration.com.au/general-skilled-migration
By Mondo Migration | Registered Australian Migration Agent (MARN 2619196)
