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28 Sept 2026
The Department of Home Affairs in Australia has officially released new processing priority directions, Ministerial Direction 121 (MD 121) and Ministerial Direction 122 (MD 122).
Taking effect on September 19, 2026, these new directions replace the former MD 119 framework. Crucially, the new priorities apply retrospectively to undecided visa applications that were submitted before the implementation date as well as new applications going forward.
If you are currently waiting for an Australian visa outcome or planning to apply soon, here is a detailed breakdown of what MD 121 and MD 122 mean for you.
Key Highlights of the New Priorities
1. Visa Pathways Split
Temporary skilled visas and permanent or provisional skilled visas are now separated into two distinct directions. MD 121 governs Subclass 482 visas, while MD 122 covers ten primary permanent and regional skilled subclasses.
2. Priority Sectors Expanded
The Australian government has broadened its priority occupation list. Beyond Healthcare, Education, and Construction, the priority list now includes Agriculture, Aquaculture, Fishing, Resources, Law Enforcement, and Defence sectors.
3. Offshore Single Applicant Priority
A dedicated priority tier has been established for Offshore (outside Australia) primary applicants who apply alone without combined secondary applicants.
4. Sponsorship Nominations Excluded
MD 121 and MD 122 apply strictly to visa applications. Employer nomination applications remain outside the scope of these priority directions.
MD 121 Subclass 482 Visa Processing Priorities
MD 121 outlines a 5 tier processing priority for Subclass 482 (Skills in Demand) visa applications:
Priority 1: Occupations in Construction, Healthcare, Teaching, Agriculture, Aquaculture, Fishing, Resources, Law Enforcement, and Defence interests regardless of location.
Priority 2: Subclass 482 Specialist Skills Stream applications regardless of location.
Priority 3: All other Onshore primary applicants currently in Australia.
Priority 4: All other Offshore primary applicants outside Australia who applied as a single applicant not combined with other applicants.
Priority 5: All other remaining visa applications.
MD 122 Permanent and Regional Skilled Visas
MD 122 establishes a 4 tier processing priority covering 10 subclasses: Subclasses 186, 187, 189, 190, 191, 489, 491, 494, 887, and 888.
Priority 1: Occupations in Construction, Healthcare, Teaching, Agriculture, Aquaculture, Fishing, Resources, Law Enforcement, and Defence interests.
Priority 2: All other Onshore primary applicants currently in Australia.
Priority 3: All other Offshore primary applicants outside Australia who applied as a single applicant not combined with other applicants.
Priority 4: All other remaining visa applications.
Applications Exempt from MD 121 and MD 122
The following cases operate independently and are not subject to the processing orders set by MD 121 or MD 122:
Applications remitted by the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART) for reconsideration.
Applications where the ART has set aside a refusal and substituted a new decision.
Applications where it is clear that visa criteria cannot be met.
Uncombined family member applications submitted separately while the primary visa holder was in Australia.
The internal tribunal review processes of the ART itself.
Australian migration law changes frequently, and understanding how your location, visa subclass, and occupation affect your timeline is critical. At Bridge and Beyond Migration, we assist clients with up to date legal strategy and custom visa planning.
To discuss your specific migration needs and explore tailored solutions, book a 1:1 consultation with a Registered Migration Agent at Bridge and Beyond Migration today.
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Disclaimer & General Information Note
The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as formal legal or migration advice. Migration law in Australia is subject to frequent amendments, policy shifts, and updates. Bridge and Beyond Migration makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the information contained herein for individual circumstances.
Reading this post or contacting us through this platform does not create a Migration Agent-Client relationship. For personalized assessment, strategic guidance, and legal advice tailored to your specific situation, please schedule a formal 1:1 consultation with a Registered Migration Agent (RMA) at Bridge and Beyond Migration.