WA State Nomination Update 2026: Why Perth is Currently the ‘Golden Ticket’ for Trades and Health

As we move through February 2026, the Australian migration landscape has seen significant shifts. While some eastern states have tightened their quotas and increased points requirements to near-impossible levels, Western Australia (WA) is sending a clear message to the world: We need you.

The recent January 2026 invitation rounds have confirmed what we at Leading Edge Migration have been telling our clients—Perth is currently the most strategic destination for skilled migrants, particularly those in Construction, Trades, and Healthcare.

Here is why Western Australia’s State Nominated Migration Program (SNMP) is being called the "Golden Ticket" for PR in 2026.

1. Priority Sectors: Lower Points, Faster Invitations

In the most recent rounds, the WA government has prioritized specific industry sectors. If your occupation falls under these categories, you are being invited with points as low as 65–75 (including state nomination points), while similar roles in Sydney or Melbourne often require 90–100 points.

The 2026 Priority Sectors include:

• Building and Construction: Bricklayers, Carpenters, Plumbers, and Electricians.

• Healthcare and Social Assistance: Registered Nurses (all specializations), Enrolled Nurses, Aged Care Workers, and Allied Health Professionals.

• Education and Training: Secondary and Primary Teachers.

• Hospitality and Tourism: Chefs and Hotel Managers.

2. The "Perth Advantage": Regional Status in a Major City

One of the biggest misconceptions in 2026 is that you must move to a remote town to get "regional" benefits. For migration purposes, all of Western Australia—including the City of Perth—is classified as a regional area.

This provides two massive advantages:

• Extra Points: You receive an automatic 15 points for a Subclass 491 nomination or 5 points for a Subclass 190 nomination.

• The 491 to 191 Pathway: You can live in the heart of Perth, enjoy its world-class lifestyle, and still meet the regional living requirements to transition to Subclass 191 Permanent Residency after three years.

3. Streamlined Requirements for Trades (Schedule 2)

For those on WASMOL Schedule 2 (which includes most construction trades), the barrier to entry has been significantly lowered in 2026.

• Offshore Applicants: WA is actively inviting tradespeople directly from overseas. In the January 2026 round, many Bricklayers, Carpenters, Joiners, and Plumbers were invited with just 65 points.

• No Long-Term Contracts: While some streams require a 12-month contract, many priority trade invitations are being issued to those who can simply demonstrate their skills and a commitment to Western Australia.

4. Healthcare: The Schedule 1 Fast-Track

Healthcare workers remain the "VIPs" of the WA migration system. Under Schedule 1, nurses and medical professionals are receiving invitations within weeks of lodging their Expression of Interest (EOI). WA is also offering significant subsidies (up to $7,500) for some health professionals to assist with relocation and registration costs through the Skilled Migration Job Connect initiative.

Is Your EOI "Decision-Ready"?

The 2026 selection process is "ruthless" for those with incomplete profiles. To ensure you receive an invitation in the upcoming March and April rounds, your EOI must be perfect:

• Accurate Residency: Ensure you correctly state whether you are "In WA," "In Australia (Other State)," or "Offshore."

• Updated Skills Assessment: A valid, migration-ready assessment is non-negotiable.

• English Scores: While 65 points can get you invited in trades, "Superior English" (PTE 79+) is still the best way to jump to the front of the queue.

Why Work With Leading Edge Migration for WA State Nomination?

Based in the heart of Perth at Adelaide Terrace, we have a front-row seat to the WA State Nomination changes. Our team, led by MARA Registered Migration Agent Mrs Navneet Kaur, specialises in "Front-Loading" applications—ensuring your medicals, police checks, and state-specific evidence are ready before the Department even asks for them.

Don’t miss the 2026 WA "Golden Ticket" window. Book a WA State Nomination Assessment with Leading Edge Migration today and find out if your occupation is on the priority list for the next round.

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. It's crucial to consult with a registered migration agent for personalised guidance based on your specific circumstances