The SHEV scheme is a regional program that lets people who came to Australia illegally to work and study in regional parts of the country, but was previously only available in Tasmania and parts of NSW.

Until now, refugees could only have temporary protection visas, which does not let refugees who work or study in a designated area apply for other visa types, like work, family or permanent protection visas.

SHEV-holders can stay in Australia for five years, while those with a temporary protection visas could only stay for three years.

Both visa types allow access Medicare, Centrelink, help in finding a job, short-term counselling for torture and access to English-teaching programs.

The ACT's Multicultural Affairs Minister Yvette Berry said the absence of a SHEV zone for refugees living in Canberra meant that they would be forced to move interstate, away from their already established support networks, friends and neighbourhoods.

"The SHEV scheme would give hope and certainty to these people who make Canberra their home and who would otherwise face an uncertain future," she said.

The arrangement was reached between the ACT and Commonwealth governments, with federal Immigration and Border Protection Minister Peter Dutton accepting the territory's request.

"We are currently working with the business and community sectors as well as across government to examine how refugees can be better supported to find employment," Ms Berry said.

"We are also working on a community of practice that will bring together relevant organisations to examine best practice in supporting refugees."

The Department of Immigration's website says refuees should use its Visa Finder to see whether they are eligible for SHEV.