Australian Postcode Checker

Designated regional area categories (1–3) affect eligibility for certain visas and, in some cases, points on the skilled migration points test.

• Points for study in regional Australia: Completing eligible study while living and studying in a designated regional area can attract additional points (on top of the Australian study requirement), subject to current policy settings.
• Points via nomination/sponsorship: For provisional regional skilled visas (e.g. subclass 491), state/territory nomination or eligible family sponsorship provides additional points toward your Expression of Interest.
• Visa eligibility conditions: Some visas require residence, work, or study in designated regional areas (e.g. 491/494 pathways and the permanent 191 visa), regardless of points.

This checker tells you whether a postcode falls in Category 1 (Not regional – major cities), Category 2 (Cities and major regional centres), or Category 3 (Regional centres and other regional areas). Use this to assess regional requirements and potential points interactions for your chosen visa pathway.

Policy settings change from time to time. This tool is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm requirements on the Department of Home Affairs website or with a registered migration agent.