MATES Ballot Now Open for Indian Graduates
- RACC Australia - Education and Migration Services
- Nov 14
- 2 min read
The MATES Ballot for Indian Graduates is a new pathway under the Temporary Work (International Relations) visa – Subclass 403. It provides Indian graduates and early-career professionals with the opportunity to gain international work experience, strengthen Australia–India professional networks, and work in sectors that contribute to Australia’s economic growth. This article explains how the ballot works, who is eligible, and what you need to prepare before registering.
What Is the MATES Program?
The Mobility Arrangement for Talented Early-Professionals Scheme (MATES) is designed to support Indian graduates seeking short-term work opportunities in Australia. Delivered under the Subclass 403 Temporary Work (International Relations) visa, the program allows selected applicants to:
Gain international work experience in Australia
Build long-term professional networks between Australia and India
Access growing and priority sectors
Live in Australia for up to two years
Bring eligible family members
Apply without employer sponsorship
The program is capped and operates through a ballot (lottery-style selection), ensuring equal opportunity for all eligible applicants.
How the MATES Ballot System Works
To join the program, applicants must first enter the ballot. Registration does not guarantee a place; however, if you are selected, you will then be invited to apply for the Subclass 403 visa.
Key Ballot Details
Annual Places: 3,000 spots
Registration Opens: 1 November 2025
Registration Closes: 14 December 2025
Registration Fee: AUD 25
Selection is random
Being selected only provides the opportunity to lodge a visa application; the visa is still subject to standard criteria
Understanding Ballot Status Updates
The ballot status for the MATES program may change during each program year. This depends on:
Status | Meaning |
PENDING | Ballot has not opened yet |
ACTIVE | Ballot is open – you can register |
CLOSED | Registration closed – waiting for selections |
EXPIRED | Final selections are complete – no further draws |
These factors influence how quickly the program moves and whether new applicants can still enter the ballot.
Eligibility Requirements for the MATES Ballot
To enter the MATES Ballot, applicants must meet all entry conditions. You must:
Create an ImmiAccount
Hold a valid Indian passport
Hold a valid PAN card
Be between 18–30 years old (inclusive) on the date the ballot opens
Not already be registered in the ballot
Hold a working email address
Agree to all ballot declarations
Pay the AUD 25 ballot registration fee
Meeting these conditions allows your name to be entered into the ballot pool for selection.
MATES Ballot for Indian Graduates: Book a Consultation
The MATES Ballot for Indian Graduates offers a valuable opportunity for skilled Indian nationals to gain work experience in Australia without needing employer sponsorship.
Book a consultation with our migration team if you would like guidance on your MATES application or other visa options.
