An Australian resume commonly runs two to three pages and includes a short profile, reverse chronological experience, and referees. Photos are usually omitted, and government roles may require separate selection criteria.
Last reviewed 2026-10-25
At a glance
- Typical length
- 2–3 pages
- Document name
- Resume or CV
- Photo
- Usually omitted
- Referees
- 2, often included
- Work rights
- State if relevant
What Australian recruiters expect
Australian resumes tend to be slightly longer than UK or Canadian ones because they include more detail on responsibilities and achievements. Two to three pages is normal for an experienced hire; one page is acceptable for a first job.
A short profile at the top should name the role you are targeting and the evidence that makes you credible. Australian English spelling is expected in most sectors: 'organisation', 'specialise', 'licence' as a noun.
- A two- or three-line profile tied to the target role.
- Reverse chronological experience with clear date ranges.
- Two referees, or 'available on request' if the posting prefers.
- Visa or work-rights status when it affects eligibility.
Government and selection criteria
Australian public-sector applications often ask for a statement addressing selection criteria in addition to a resume. Use the STAR structure — situation, task, action, result — and give one concrete example per criterion.
Do not bury the response inside the resume. If the application asks for a separate statement, write a separate document and keep the resume focused on your history.
What to leave off
Photos, date of birth, and marital status are commonly omitted. A full address is unnecessary; city and state are enough. Referee contact details should only be included with their permission.
Avoid Australian slang and internal job titles that mean nothing outside your previous employer. Translate the title into the work you actually did.
Common mistakes
- Ignoring a separate selection-criteria statement.
- Using US spelling throughout an application to an Australian employer.
- Including referees without asking them first.
- Writing a one-page resume for a senior role that needs scope detail.
Australian resume format FAQs
How long should an Australian resume be?
Two to three pages is common for experienced candidates. One page is acceptable for entry level; four or more is usually too long outside academia.
Do I need to address selection criteria?
If the posting asks for it, yes. Use a separate document with one STAR example per criterion, and keep the resume as your history rather than the response.
Should I include referees on an Australian resume?
Two referees are common, but ask them first. If the posting says references are on request, leave the details out.
Is a photo expected?
No. Most Australian employers do not expect a photo, and omitting it is the safer default.
Resume examples for this market
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