Australia’s August 2025 SkillSelect Invitation Round – Detailed Update 

A Major Milestone for Skilled Migration 

On 21 August 2025, the Department of Home Affairs conducted a significant SkillSelect invitation round for the Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) – 6,887 invitations and the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa – Family Sponsored (Subclass 491) – 150 invitations.

This was the first invitation round in over nine months, following the previous round held in November 2024. The announcement has brought renewed energy and optimism for skilled migration applicants who have been eagerly waiting for opportunities. 

Number of Invitations & Points Cut-Off 

• Total Invitations Issued: 7,037, making it a significant round. 
• Minimum Points Required: The threshold dropped to 65 points for trade occupations, 80 points for medical professionals and over 90 points for other occupations. 

Priority Occupations 

The round focused on occupations where Australia continues to experience skill shortages. While a detailed list is not always published, the key industries strongly represented include: 

• Trade Occupations – Carpenters, Plumbers, etc. – 65 points 
• Healthcare – Registered Nurses across multiple categories – 80 points 
• Education – Primary and Secondary School Teachers – 85 points 
• Engineers – Materials and Mining Engineers – 90 points or more 
• Electronic Equipment Trades Worker – 110 points 

This reflects Australia’s ongoing priority to fill gaps in essential services and industries that support both economic growth and community wellbeing. 

What Happens After an Invitation 

If you received an invitation in this round, it is important to act quickly and carefully. Here are the next steps: 

• Accept the Invitation – You have 60 calendar days to lodge your visa application through SkillSelect. 
• Prepare Documents – Gather your identity documents, skills assessment, English language test results, employment evidence, police checks, and health examinations. 
• Submit a Complete Application – Ensure all information is accurate and supported by documents before lodging. 
• Monitor Processing – Current processing times for subclass 189 visas is around 8 months or more. 
• Travel to Australia – Do not make travel or work commitments until your visa is formally granted. 

Strategic Insights for Applicants 

• Occupations in healthcare, teaching, engineering and trades remain strong pathways for invitations. 
• If you did not receive an invitation, ensure your Expression of Interest (EOI) is up to date. Consider ways to increase your points through partner skills, English test improvements, or professional year programs. 
• Keep an eye on state-nominated visas (subclass 190 and 491), as well as employer-sponsored visas (subclass 482, 186, 494), which may offer alternate opportunities depending on your profile. 

Final Thoughts 

The August 2025 invitation round marked a turning point after months of limited movement in the skilled migration program. With thousands of invitations issued and a lower points threshold, many applicants now have the opportunity to pursue their Australian dream. 

At Better Life Migration, we specialise in guiding clients through the complex visa journey. From checking eligibility and preparing documentation to lodging a complete and accurate application, we are here to ensure you have the best possible chance of success. Contact us @ www.betterlifemigration.com.au or call +0415419414.