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🇦🇺How to Write a Resume for Australia

An Australian resume (commonly called a CV) can run two to three pages, giving you room to describe responsibilities and achievements in real detail. Employers here expect you to map your experience directly to the role's selection criteria, and many still list referees. First impressions are made when a hiring manager can see, at a glance, that your background answers exactly what the job ad is asking for.

Language

English

Resume conventions

2–3 pages allowed; detailed responsibilities and results

Top job boards

LinkedIn · Seek · Indeed

Free AI review against Australia market norms — score + line-by-line fixesStart

Format & structure essentials

  • Length

    Two to three pages is normal and expected — cover your achievements and responsibilities thoroughly, but keep the layout clean and easy to scan.

  • Selection criteria

    Australian job ads specify selection criteria; addressing each one point by point with concrete experience makes your fit obvious to the recruiter.

  • Referees

    It is standard practice to list referees (name, role, contact) or to state 'Referees available on request' at the end.

What to emphasize in this market

Responding directly to each selection criterion in the job ad Detailed, quantified achievements and responsibilities Referees or an 'available on request' line A clear match between your experience and the specific role

Common mistakes when applying to Australia

  • Ignoring the job ad's selection criteria

    Answer each selection criterion with a specific, evidenced example rather than a generic summary of your career.

  • Compressing everything into a one-page resume

    Australia allows detail — use the two-to-three-page norm to show your impact fully, while keeping it readable.

  • Leaving out referees entirely

    Add referee details or write 'Referees available on request' so the reader knows references are ready.

Get your resume checked against Australia norms

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Other country guides

Resume guides by role

Even in the same market, emphasis differs by role. Check the core skills and phrasing for your target role too.

Related free tools & guides

Hiring norms vary by company and over time, so check the employer’s guidance before you apply. For a specific review, try a free AI resume review.