ACT Occupation List for 190 and 491 Nomination

It identifies the occupations skilled migrants can nominate when applying for ACT 190 or 491 nomination. The ACT says it includes occupations that may be in high demand, support priority sectors or face anticipated future demand. The list was formerly called the ACT Critical Skills list.

A nominated occupation on the list scores 20 points in the Canberra Matrix points system. Resident applicants can also claim points for a current ACT job in a listed occupation. The Doctorate Streamlined and small business owner pathways do not need a listed occupation.

Matrix submissions in a critical sector may be prioritised. The ACT names the care, education, construction, renewables, experience and advanced technology sectors. Occupations can be capped when nominations in a financial year far outstrip demand.

The ACT publishes the list as a PDF and a Word file in its guidelines and invitations library, and shows it on the ACT occupation list page. It was last updated on 10 October 2025 and applies to all Matrix submissions, whenever they were submitted. The ACT reviews it each year around the start of the migration program year, and a review does not guarantee a change.

Some entries are marked “491 only”. Match your nominated occupation to the ANZSCO code and the visa you are applying for.

No. Being on the list earns points and lets you claim a place in the ranking. The ACT still ranks by score within each occupation, and invitations are not guaranteed. The same list applies to the ACT subclass 491 nomination.

A wrong occupation code or an unproven occupation claim costs 20 points and can refuse the application. An application prepared by an Australian migration lawyer is more likely to succeed: an immigration lawyer in Canberra matches your skills assessment and work history to the right occupation before you claim. A Canberra immigration lawyer can also place the choice within the wider ACT nomination program.