If you are in Tech, you should be in Canberra.
While IT graduates in Sydney and Melbourne are fighting over a handful of invitations, the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) is actively hunting for tech talent. With the federal government’s massive push into Cyber Security and Digital Transformation, the demand for skilled IT professionals in 2026 is higher than ever.
But having a degree isn't enough. You need a strategy to convert your "Skills" into "Matrix Points."
As the Best Nepali Migration Agent in Canberra, Right and Associates specializes in helping IT professionals navigate the complex Australian Computer Society (ACS) assessment and the ACT Matrix. Here is your blueprint.
The "Tech" Advantage in the ACT Matrix
The ACT Matrix rewards specific skills. In 2026, the ACT Critical Skills List is heavily weighted towards:
- Cyber Security Specialists (262112)
- Software Engineers (261313)
- ICT Business Analysts (261111)
- System Administrators (262113)
If your occupation is on this list, you often get a lower invitation threshold than other occupations. We check the list weekly to ensure your nomination strategy is up to date.
The ACS Trap: "Deeming Date"
The biggest mistake we see IT graduates make is with their Skills Assessment.
- The Problem: The ACS deducts work experience to meet the "suitability" criteria (this is called the "Deeming Date"). If you claim points for work before this date, your visa will be refused for "Overclaiming Points."
- The Fix: We calculate your dates precisely. We advise you on whether to do a Professional Year (PY) program in Canberra to bypass the work experience requirement for the skills assessment, saving you time and stress.
Canberra Specific: The "Security Clearance" Myth
Many IT pros are told: "You can't get an IT job in Canberra without a Security Clearance / Citizenship." This is false. While Federal Government jobs require citizenship, there is a massive Private Sector ecosystem in Canberra (consulting firms, tech startups, contractors) that specifically hires migrants on 485 and 482 visas.
- Our Network: We know the recruiters and companies in Fyshwick, Civic, and Belconnen who hire international talent.
190 vs 491 for IT Pros
- The 190 Goal: For Permanent Residency. usually requires a Matrix score of 85+ for IT pros.
- The 491 Strategy: If you have 65-70 Matrix points, do not wait. Take the 491. It allows you to live and work in Canberra, and after 3 years (and meeting income requirements), you have a clear path to the 191 Visa.
- Pro Tip: IT salaries in Canberra are high. Meeting the income threshold for the 191 visa is usually easier here than in regional NSW or QLD.
Why IT Professionals Choose Right and Associates
You deal with complex code; we deal with complex law.
- We Speak "ACS": We understand the difference between a "Major" and a "Minor" in your degree and how it affects your assessment.
- We Maximize Points: We look for hidden points—Spouse Skills, English Superior (PTE 79+ is a must for IT), and continuous residence.
- University Ave Location: We are right in the heart of the city's business district.
Code Your Future in Canberra
Don't let a calculation error crash your migration dream. Come in for a "Tech Migration" strategy session. We will review your GitHub portfolio, your ACS assessment, and your Matrix points in one go.
Visit us in Canberra: 📍 Address: Suite 1A, Level 3, 17-21 University Ave, Canberra ACT 2601 📞 Phone: +61 2 6179 6786 📧 Email: canberra@rassociates.com.au