Australia’s TSMIT: Why the 2025 Increase Matters for Skilled Migration
Thinking about working in Australia on a skilled visa? You might have heard of something called TSMIT—it’s short for Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold. Don’t worry if it sounds confusing. It’s actually a basic rule that helps protect workers. Let’s break it down in plain English and talk about what’s changing in July 2025.
What Is TSMIT?
TSMIT is the minimum yearly salary that must be offered to skilled workers from overseas if they’re being sponsored for a job in Australia. The government uses this rule to make sure international workers are paid fairly—and not less than locals doing the same job.
Important: TSMIT does not include superannuation (which is money set aside for retirement). Employers must pay that on top of the salary.
Why Should It Matter to You?
If you want to apply for one of these skilled visas, you’ll need to meet the TSMIT:
– Temporary Skill Shortage visa (subclass 482)
– Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional visa (subclass 494)
– Employer Nomination Scheme visa (subclass 186)
Other Visa Options: https://pathwaytoaus.com/visas-to-australia/
To qualify, your employer must:
- Offer you at least the TSMIT amount.
- Pay what your job usually earns in Australia (this is called the Annual Market Salary Rate, or AMSR).
You’ll be paid whichever amount is higher—TSMIT or the usual salary for that job. So, if TSMIT is $73,150, but your job normally pays $80,000, you must be offered $80,000.
What’s Changed Lately?
For over a decade, TSMIT stayed at $53,900. That didn’t reflect how much things cost today. So, the government made changes:
– July 2023: Increased to $70,000
– July 2024: Increased again to $73,150
These changes were made to match real wages and living costs in Australia.
What’s Coming on July 1, 2025?
From 1 July 2025, TSMIT will go up again—this time to $76,515.
This is part of a larger plan to make sure the skilled migration system stays fair. It helps stop underpayment and supports the Australian job market.
Who Does This Apply To?
This change affects all new employer-sponsored visa applications made on or after 1 July 2025. If you apply before that, the current threshold of $73,150 will apply instead. Make sure you lodge a nomination before July 1, 2025.
So, if you’re thinking about applying for a visa, it’s smart to check the timing and your offer.
What Should You Do?
If You’re an Employer:
– Start reviewing salaries now to prepare for the 2025 increase.
– Make sure offers meet both the new TSMIT and the average wage for the job.
If You’re a Skilled Worker:
– Look up what your job usually pays in Australia.
– Avoid offers below TSMIT—they won’t qualify for a visa.
Final Thoughts
TSMIT may sound technical, but it’s there to protect both workers and the Australian economy. The new threshold of $76,515 begins on 1 July 2025. So make sure you understand how it affects you.
Whether you’re an employer looking to hire or a worker chasing a new life in Australia, knowing how TSMIT works will help you move forward with confidence.
And if you’re feeling unsure about your situation, having a chat with a registered migration agent is a great place to begin. At Pathway to Aus, we’ve helped hundreds of people make sense of the visa process—from checking if their job offer meets the TSMIT to reviewing salaries and payslips. Our team knows the system inside out, and we’re here to make it easier for you. Reach out to us today and let’s take that first step together.
