Queensland Government Nomination for the National Innovation Visa

Queensland is positioning itself as a global hub for research, innovation, investment, sport and the creative industries. Through nomination under the National Innovation Visa, the Queensland Government is seeking exceptional individuals who can make a lasting contribution to the state’s economy, reputation and future growth.

Below is a clear overview of the Queensland Government guidelines for each target cohort and the evidence required if you are invited to progress after submitting your Registration of Interest (ROI).

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1. Global Researchers

Queensland is seeking internationally recognised researchers with a strong academic track record and a high h-index relative to their career stage.

To qualify for Queensland nomination, you must demonstrate that your work will significantly enhance the international reputation of Queensland-based research and meet one of the following:

Eligibility Criteria

Criteria 1 – Confirmed Job Placement

• A confirmed academic appointment at a Queensland university.

OR

Criteria 2 – Confirmed Research Funding

• Secured funding (via grant or partnership) to support a research engagement placement at a Queensland research institute for at least two years.

Evidence Requirements

If contacted by the Queensland Government, you will need to provide documentation such as:

Career Track Record

• Evidence of attracting Higher Degree by Research (HDR) students.
• Demonstrated leadership in research across industry, academia or government.
• A strong publication and citation record.

For Confirmed Job Placement

• Letter of support from the employing Queensland university (signed by a Deputy Vice Chancellor – Research or equivalent).
• Executed employment contract outlining:
  • Job title and duties
  • Salary
  • Work location
  • Employment type (full-time, part-time, casual)
  • Duration of appointment

For Confirmed Funding Placement

• Research proposal and executed funding agreement.
• Evidence of grant funding (e.g. Australian Research Council linkage grants or CRC funding).
• Heads of agreement or partnership contracts.
• Science grants from the Queensland Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation.
• Funding through the Australian Academy of Science Global Talent Attraction Program.

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2. Entrepreneurs

Queensland welcomes established and emerging entrepreneurs who are ready to commercialise or expand innovative products or services within the state.

Key Requirement

• A minimum investment threshold of AUD $1 million.
• Clear readiness to establish and operate in Queensland.

Evidence Requirements

If invited to provide further documentation, you may need to demonstrate:

• A genuine commitment to Queensland.
• Operational readiness to launch or expand.
• Proven entrepreneurial success in commercialising innovation.
• Funds already invested in:
  • Business setup
  • Feasibility studies
  • Consultants
  • Market research
  • Licensing and regulatory approvals

Queensland is particularly interested in ventures that contribute to the state’s innovation ecosystem and long-term economic growth.

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3. Innovative Investors

Queensland seeks active investors with a proven history of backing groundbreaking ventures.

Key Requirement

• A commitment to invest a minimum of AUD $5 million for two or more years in Queensland’s innovation ecosystem.

Acceptable Investment Structures

Investment may be deployed through:

• Private equity
• Venture capital
• Research and development initiatives
• Asset management vehicles
• Co-investments (e.g. Queensland Investment Corporation ventures)

Evidence Requirements

Applicants may be required to provide:

• Evidence of a strong track record in actively supporting successful innovative ventures.
• Proof of access to at least AUD $5 million, available for deployment upon visa grant.
• A detailed investment plan outlining:
  • Proposed deployment strategy
  • Expected economic impact
  • Contribution to Queensland’s innovation growth

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4. Athletes and Sports Professionals

Aligned with Home Affairs indicators, Queensland supports elite athletes and sports professionals who will elevate Australia’s and Queensland’s international sporting reputation.

Eligible Applicants

• Elite or high-calibre athletes
• Coaches
• Sports scientists
• Other specialised sports professionals

Evidence Requirements

If requested, you must demonstrate:

• How you will contribute to developing sporting talent in Queensland.
• How you will support community sporting initiatives.
• How your presence will enhance Queensland’s international sporting profile.

Queensland is preparing for significant global exposure in the lead-up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, creating major opportunities for elite sporting professionals.

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5. Creatives

Queensland is seeking outstanding creatives who will enhance Australia’s and Queensland’s international cultural standing.

Eligible Applicants

• Artists
• Cultural leaders
• Creative producers
• Technical production specialists
• Other high-calibre creative professionals

Key Focus Areas

• Building impact within Queensland’s local arts sector
• Enhancing the state’s creative reputation globally
• Strengthening capacity in key technical and production skills
• Supporting creative industries growth in the lead-up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games

Evidence Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate how their work will:

• Contribute meaningfully to Queensland’s arts, culture and creative industries.
• Build sustainable sector capacity.
• Deliver long-term impact within the state.

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Next Steps

If you submit a Registration of Interest (ROI) and are contacted by the Queensland Government, you will be required to provide formal documentation supporting your eligibility under your chosen category.

The National Innovation Visa presents a significant opportunity for globally recognised talent to establish themselves in Queensland and contribute to one of Australia’s most dynamic and rapidly growing innovation ecosystems.

If you would like assistance assessing your eligibility or preparing a competitive submission, VisaConnect’s team is here to help.