Australia Designates Areas Under Migration Regulations 2026

The Department of Home Affairs has released the Migration (Designated Areas) Instrument 2026. This instrument names specific geographical areas in Australia as 'designated areas' for immigration purposes. It came into effect on 21 September 2026 and replaces the previous 2016/044 instrument. This means that the current designated areas are now formally recognised under the Migration Regulations 1994. The update aims to make sure the designated areas fit with current policy needs.

Jurisdiction: Australia
Stage: Effective 22 Sept 2026
Published: 21 Sept 2026
In force: 22 Sept 2026
Category: Employer Sponsorship
Official source: Federal Register of Legislation — Migration instruments

Official source: legislation.gov.au