When state nomination applications open: timing by state

Each state manages its own quota

One of the most confusing things for applicants new to state nomination is that there is no single, nationwide application-opening schedule. DHA allocates a total nomination quota for the country each financial year, but how that quota is distributed to each state, and when applications open, is entirely up to each state and territory.

This means that while NSW is closed, Queensland may be open; while Victoria is waiting for a new quota, South Australia may be processing applications from a waitlist.

Common opening models

Model 1: Opening by financial year (July)

Some states reset their quota and open new applications at the start of the Australian financial year (1 July). This is the most competitive time, because many applicants have been preparing for months. Quotas are often used up quickly — sometimes within a few hours for popular occupations.

Model 2: Opening in rounds

Some states split the quota into several smaller rounds across the year — for example, opening a round each quarter or every two months. Applicants need to watch the schedule for new round announcements and lodge at the right time.

Model 3: Waitlist

Some states, especially when the quota is limited, maintain a waitlist. Applicants lodge into the list and are assessed in order as places become available. The wait can stretch over many months.

Model 4: Ballot

Some states or programs use a ballot system — applicants register within a set window, after which the system selects, either at random or by priority criteria, who to invite to lodge an SOI. This is typically used when demand greatly exceeds the quota.

How it works in the larger states

NSW (New South Wales) NSW opens in rounds and usually announces ahead of opening. Applicants need to lodge a Statement of Interest (SOI) through the NSW portal. The wait can be long given the high competition.

Victoria Victoria usually opens by individual occupation rather than all at once. It prioritises people living and working in VIC. Opening announcements are often short-notice and the quota fills very quickly.

Queensland Queensland has several opening rounds across the year. Some occupations (health, construction) are given special priority. There are also opportunities for offshore applicants in some occupations.

South Australia (SA) SA has more flexible programs, including a pathway for occupations not on the standard list. It is usually more accessible for applicants with mid-range scores.

Western Australia (WA) WA opens in rounds and prioritises occupations in mining, agriculture and health. Applicants living and working in WA are prioritised.

Tasmania, NT, ACT Smaller quotas but less competition. They open without a fixed schedule — you need to check regularly.

A strategy for tracking and preparing

Because opening schedules are not uniform and change often, the most effective strategy is:

1. Sign up for notifications from the migration portal of each target state
2. Have a complete application ready before applications open — don’t wait until there is an announcement to start preparing
3. Follow the migration community and forums to keep up with real-world information
4. Target several states at the same time rather than focusing on just one
5. Watch the Australian financial calendar: July is when new quotas appear, but you shouldn’t wait until July to start preparing — begin in April or May

A schedule with no fixed opening dates means opportunities can appear unexpectedly — and only those who are already prepared can seize them.