Australia’s healthcare system continues to rely on skilled medical professionals from overseas to meet growing demand—especially in regional and rural areas. One of the most effective ways for overseas-trained doctors and healthcare workers to secure a visa and permanent residency is through state or territory sponsorship.
In this article, we’ll break down the key medical state sponsorship options across Australia, how they work, and what healthcare professionals need to know to apply successfully.
What is State or Territory Sponsorship?
State or territory sponsorship allows eligible skilled migrants to be nominated by a state or territory government for certain visa subclasses, including:
- Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa (Permanent)
- Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
Sponsorship is based on local workforce needs and can make it easier for overseas professionals—especially in medicine and allied health—to receive an invitation to apply for a visa.
👉 Learn more about Skilled Migration visas
Why Medical Professionals Are in High Demand
All Australian states and territories list medical and healthcare occupations on their skilled occupation lists—especially in:
- General Practice
- Aged Care
- Mental Health
- Allied Health (Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Radiography, etc.)
- Nursing (Registered and Enrolled Nurses)
Many regional areas struggle to attract and retain local staff, making overseas-trained medical professionals highly sought after.
State-by-State Overview: Medical Sponsorship Options
🟡 New South Wales (NSW)
NSW offers sponsorship under both 190 and 491 visas, particularly for regional areas. Healthcare and medical roles are always in high demand.
🟢 Victoria (VIC)
Victoria targets health occupations with priority given to applicants who live and work in Victoria, especially in regional zones under the 491 visa.
🔗 Live in Melbourne – Skilled Migration
🔵 Queensland (QLD)
Through the Queensland Skilled Migration Program (QSMT), the state offers nomination for doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals, with special pathways for those working outside Brisbane.
🟠 South Australia (SA)
SA has a strong focus on attracting doctors and health professionals to regional and remote areas. Many concessions are available under the 491 stream.
🔴 Western Australia (WA)
WA has opened state nomination to a wide range of healthcare occupations, especially for those who have studied, trained, or worked in the state.
🟣 Tasmania (TAS)
Tasmania offers accessible state nomination to healthcare workers, with pathways for both onshore and offshore applicants, especially under the 491 visa.
🟤 Northern Territory (NT)
With strong demand for doctors and nurses, NT provides generous nomination options, including for applicants with job offers in regional and remote communities.
🔗 The Territory – Skilled Migration
⚪ Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
ACT uses a points-based Canberra Matrix to assess applicants, with priority given to critical occupations like general practice and mental health.
🔗 Canberra Your Future – ACT Nomination
Which Visa Pathways Can You Access Through State Sponsorship?
| Visa | Type | Summary |
|---|---|---|
| Subclass 190 | Permanent | Live and work anywhere in the sponsoring state. |
| Subclass 491 | Provisional (5 years) | Live and work in regional areas only; offers pathway to permanent residency (subclass 191). |
Tips for Medical Professionals Seeking State Sponsorship
- ✅ Check if your occupation is listed on the state’s Skilled Occupation List
- ✅ Meet English and skills assessment requirements (e.g. AHPRA registration or AMC exams)
- ✅ Have a job offer in a regional or in-demand area (this greatly increases your chances)
- ✅ Demonstrate commitment to living and working in that state long-term
- ✅ Consider the 491 visa if you’re open to regional and rural areas—it often has faster processing times and more availability
How MedMigration Can Help
At MedMigration, we help medical professionals:
- Understand state sponsorship requirements across different states
- Prepare documentation for skills assessments and AHPRA registration
- Find jobs in eligible regional areas
- Maximise points and submit strong EOIs
Whether you’re a GP, nurse, specialist, or allied health graduate—we’re here to help you secure sponsorship and migrate successfully.
Final Thoughts
With state sponsorship, medical professionals have an exciting opportunity to build a life and career in Australia—while also making a meaningful impact in communities that need you most.
Ready to explore your options?
👉 Get in touch with MedMigration today to find the best state sponsorship pathway for your medical career.
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