Great Journey Migration

Subclass 485 (Temporary Graduate) VAC increase – effective today (1 March 2026)

The Department has implemented an unexpected Visa Application Charge (VAC) increase for the Subclass 485 (Temporary Graduate) visa effective today. There was no prior announcement from DHA before this change took effect.

✅ New base VAC (main applicant): $4,600
For most cases, this means you’ll now be looking at $4,600 just for the main applicant, with additional applicant charges applying if you include eligible family members.

If you’re planning to lodge a 485 soon, please factor this into your budget and timing. If you’re our client and your application is ready, message/email us so we can discuss next steps.

Immigration and citizenship Website Find out about Australian visas, immigration and citizenship.

🚨 ACT Migration October Update — Key Changes for 2025–26

ACT has announced updates to its nomination program:

• The Critical Skills List has been revamped (now the ACT Migration Occupation List) and reduced from 152 to 105 unit groups.
• Upcoming invitation rounds will consider only occupations on the updated list (September invitees are unaffected).
• PhD pathway: invitations now issued within regular rounds (still prioritised, just less frequent).

If you’re targeting ACT nomination, now’s the time to check your occupation, update your Canberra Matrix, and ensure your evidence is ready.

📩 Questions or need tailored advice? Contact us for professional migration assistance and we will map your best pathway.

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