Annual indexation of the Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT) and Specialist Skills Income Threshold (SSIT) as of 1 July 2026

The Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT) and Specialist Skills Income Threshold (SSIT) applicable to the Skills in Demand (subclass 482) and Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) programs will increase from 1 July 2026 following annual indexation.

As of 1 July 2026, the updated salary thresholds will apply:

– Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT): $79,499 (up from $76,515)

– Specialist Skills Income Threshold (SSIT): $146,717 (up from $141,210) 

These updated thresholds will apply to all relevant subclass 482 and subclass 186 nomination applications lodged on or after 1 July 2026. 

Key takeouts

• Employers planning to lodge nominations around the end of the program year should carefully consider timing, as applications lodged on or after 1 July 2026 must meet the higher indexed thresholds.
  
• Labour Market Testing (if applicable) must be completed before a subclass 482 nomination can be lodged. 
  
• Where Labour Market Testing cannot be completed before 1 July 2026, advertised salaries must align with the new thresholds.
  
• Employers should review any current or upcoming sponsorship activity particularly where recruitment processes are underway but not finalised or Labour Market Testing has not yet commenced or is unlikely to conclude in time.

Further information & advice

The annual indexation is legislated and will continue to be indexed each year. Given the strict application of these thresholds and the interaction with Labour Market Testing requirements, careful planning is recommended. 

If you have any questions on the upcoming income threshold indexation or any other employer sponsorship matter, please don’t hesitate to contact us.