The ACT Government is introducing a new online portal for Canberra Matrix submissions and ACT nomination applications, with the launch currently scheduled for the week commencing 27 July 2026.
To prepare for the transition, the existing portal will close to new activity from 13 July 2026, with Canberra Matrix submissions accepted through the current system until 12 July 2026. Once the new portal goes live, all new submissions will need to be lodged through the updated platform.
The new portal is designed to improve the application experience with features including multi-factor authentication, live application status updates, improved mobile accessibility, and the ability to edit or withdraw Canberra Matrix submissions as circumstances change. It also introduces stronger integrity measures to help reduce non-genuine Expressions of Interest.
There are also several important program updates. From the 2026–27 financial year, the total ACT nomination fee will be $350 (excluding GST), comprising $25 for a Canberra Matrix submission and $325 for an ACT nomination application.
Canberra Matrix submissions will continue to be valid for six months, with the option to extend validity to 12 months by updating the submission before it expires. Applicants should note that any updates will be treated as a new submission for ranking purposes.
Current Canberra Matrix submissions will be automatically transferred to the new portal, meaning applicants will not need to submit a new Matrix. To access an existing submission, users will simply need to create a new account using the same email address used for their original application.
With these changes taking effect ahead of the first invitation round of the 2026–27 financial year, applicants should familiarise themselves with the new process and monitor updates from ACT Migration.