Australian Resume Guide & Formatting Tips
What Makes Australian Resumes Different
Resume vs CV
In Australia, the terms "resume" and "CV" are used interchangeably to refer to the same document.
Length of Resume
Unlike the U.S., an Australian resume should be more than one page. For professionals, three to four pages are expected, while recent graduates or those with less experience may use two pages.
Language Expectations
Resumes in Australia should be written in correct Australian English.
Photo Inclusion
Photos are not typically included in Australian resumes unless specifically requested for jobs related to appearance.
Personal Information
Avoid including personal information such as age, marital status, religion, sexual preference, or nationality to prevent profiling.
Typical Australian Resume Sections
Resume Objective/Summary
Optional but recommended, a resume objective or summary provides a concise introduction to your career goals and professional experience.
Work Experience
List work experience in reverse-chronological order, including dates and a brief description of responsibilities and achievements. Quantify achievements where possible.
Education
Display education history in reverse-chronological order, including institution name, dates attended, major/minor/specialization, and any related honors or awards.
Skills
List relevant hard and soft skills, ensuring that any soft skills can be backed up with experiences.
Volunteer Experience
Highlight any volunteer work, especially if it is related to your profession or fills employment gaps.
References
Provide the name, position, and contact information of your referees.
Free Australian Resume Templates
College/University Resume Template
Designed for students or recent graduates to emphasize education and skills.
Professional Resume Template
A versatile template that highlights work experience and is suitable for various fields.
Creative Resume Template
Ideal for those in creative fields, offering a unique touch while remaining organized.
How to Make a Convincing Resume - Further Readings
For additional resources on job search, resumes, and interviews, consider the following guides:
- The No-Nonsense Guide to Finding a Great Aussie Job in 2025
- How to Write a Resume | Professional Guide
- How to Write a CV (Curriculum Vitae) in 2025
- 35+ Common Interview Questions and Answers [Complete List]
- How to Ace Interviews with the STAR Method
Key Takeaways
- In Australia, "resume" and "CV" are synonymous.
- Resumes should be longer than one page, typically 3-5 pages, but 2 pages may be acceptable for those with less experience.
- Use correct Australian English and include a compelling resume objective or summary.
- Remember to quantify achievements and responsibilities in your work experience section.
Good luck with your job search, and may you secure the interview you've been waiting for!