A positive skills assessment is the first step for almost every Australian skilled visa. In 2026, three major assessing authorities have raised their fees, broadly in line with inflation.
The new fees at a glance
| Assessing authority | Service | New fee (AUD) | Effective |
|---|---|---|---|
| VETASSESS | Full skills assessment (professional occupations) | 1,146 (was 1,096) | 9 Sep 2026 |
| VETASSESS | Priority processing (added on top) | 863 | 9 Sep 2026 |
| VETASSESS | Points test advice only | 325 | 9 Sep 2026 |
| AITSL (teachers) | Skills assessment | 1,198 | 7 Sep 2026 |
| AITSL (teachers) | Skilled Employment Statement | 265 | 7 Sep 2026 |
| Engineers Australia | Competency Demonstration Report (CDR) | 940 excl. GST (1,034 incl. GST) | 2 Jul 2026 |
| Engineers Australia | Washington, Sydney or Dublin Accord | 555.50 incl. GST | 2 Jul 2026 |
| Engineers Australia | Fast-track (added on top) | 396 incl. GST | 2 Jul 2026 |
VETASSESS amounts shown exclude GST, which applies only if you are an Australian resident for tax purposes. AITSL does not charge GST.
Things to note
- VETASSESS trade occupations are not affected. The increase applies to professional occupation assessments, priority processing and related services only.
- Applications received before the effective date were charged at the old rates.
- Other assessing authorities such as ACS, TRA, ANMAC and CPA Australia also review their fees periodically. Always confirm the current fee before you lodge.
What this means for you
- Getting it right first time matters more. An unsuccessful outcome means paying again — a VETASSESS appeal now costs AUD 1,132 and a review up to AUD 955.
- Choose the right occupation and assessing body from the start. A mismatch between your duties and the nominated occupation is one of the most common reasons for a negative result.
- Budget for the full journey, including English testing and visa application charges, not just the assessment.
Not sure which assessing authority applies to your occupation? See our skills assessment authorities guide.
Sources: VETASSESS, AITSL and Engineers Australia published fee schedules. Information is current as at 26 September 2026. This article is general information only and is not migration advice for your individual circumstances.