State Government Nomination for NIV
If you’re an exceptional global achiever—an elite athlete, groundbreaking creator, pioneering entrepreneur or world-class researcher—Australia wants you. And in 2025, State and Territory Governments are stepping up with new nomination pathways designed to attract the brightest minds under the National Innovation Visa (NIV).
This blog breaks down what’s happening state-by-state, who qualifies for Priority Two nominations, and how you can position yourself for success.
What is Priority Two Nomination?
Some applicants possess the kind of international calibre that transforms industries. Under Priority Two, Australian Government Agencies may nominate people who:
- Are athletes or creative professionals with the potential to elevate Australia’s global reputation
- Have a proven history of bold, successful, innovative investments
- Are entrepreneurs developing new products or services—ideally linked to Australian innovation hubs
- Hold recognised intellectual property such as international patents
If this sounds like you, Priority Two may be your golden ticket!
Victoria State Government Nomination
Victoria is the first state to actively nominate NIV candidates, seeking high-performing individuals who can drive innovation, boost productivity and elevate the state’s international profile.
Submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI)? With Victorian nomination, you’ll be assessed under the sought-after Priority Two pathway.
Victorian Nomination Requirements
To be considered, you must:
- Show exceptional talent backed by a strong record of achievements
- Engage with a Victorian Government agency about how your expertise will benefit Victoria
- Be formally referred by that agency
- Meet the Department of Home Affairs’ criteria for the National Innovation Visa
- Be under 55, unless you can present a compelling exceptional-circumstances case
- Demonstrate a genuine commitment to living and contributing to Victoria
New South Wales (NSW): Five Pathways
Since July 2025, NSW has opened its doors to eligible NIV applicants through five targeted nomination streams. If you fit one of these categories, you may be an ideal match:
- 1. Academic & Researcher
- 2. Entrepreneur
- 3. Innovative Investor
- 4. Sports Professional
- 5. Creative Professional
This makes NSW one of the most diverse and accessible nomination jurisdictions for high-achieving talent.
Queensland State Nomination
As of December 2025, Migration Queensland is actively evaluating its NIV nomination program.
Nominations are not yet open, and timeframes remain unconfirmed.
Stay tuned—information will be released once the process is finalised!
Migration Agents Advice
Contact VisaConnect’s Registered Migration Agents for advice and assistance wis1th your NIV application for State Nomination, in 2025/2026!
Call our Offices for a COnsultation Today!
Hong Kong: +852 3840 9107
Singapore: +65 3105 1536
Sydney, Australia: +61 2 9151 7350
London, UK: +44 20 3807 8879
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