The Department of Home Affairs has announced that the ballot for the 2025–26 program year of the MATES ( Mobility Access Training for Education and Skills)‑India initiative is now open. It allows skilled Indian graduates and early-career professionals to gain valuable work experience in Australia without employer sponsorship.
The eligible Indian graduates can apply between 1 November 2025 and 14 December 2025. Those selected through the ballot will be notified by the Department and invited to lodge a visa application. The ballot registration fee is AUD 25.
The MATES program offers up to 3,000 primary applicants each year for skilled Indian graduates and early-career professionals to live and work in Australia for up to two years. Primary applicants may bring members of the family unit, who will not be counted towards the 3,000 places.
Click here: MATE-Professionals Scheme 403 – Ballot Registration