How to write a resume in Australia: A step-by-step guide with examples

Crafting a standout resume is a game-changer for your job search, and it’s easier than you think. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, a well-crafted resume can open doors and get you noticed.

After all, your resume (or CV) is often the first impression an employer gets of you, so having a strong resume format can make all the difference in landing a job interview. In this guide, we'll go over the key steps to build a resume, resume writing tips, and how to format a resume professionally to help you land your next job. 

6 resume writing tips to help you land a job 

1. Ditch the objective 

The objective section is no longer necessary. The fact that you are applying for the job speaks volumes about your interest. If you're shifting industries, consider including a brief summary at the top of your resume to explain your career change. 

2. Keep it concise 

While you may have an extensive work history, it’s important to focus on recent and relevant roles. If a job or experience isn’t related to the position you're applying for, consider leaving it out. A resume should ideally fit on one or two pages. Tailor it for each job application by highlighting the skills that are directly relevant to the role. 

3. Remove unnecessary information 

There’s no need to include personal details like your age, marital status, religion, or nationality. Employers can’t ask for this information, so there's no point in including it. Also, avoid adding your date of birth, bank account details, or anything unnecessary. Just your suburb and postcode will suffice. 

4. Simplicity is key 

Choose a modern, easy-to-read font and keep the design simple. Avoid cluttered layouts with headers, footers, or tables that may not display correctly on different computers. Use bullet points under relevant headings to make your resume more digestible. Stick to clear, concise language and avoid using first-person pronouns (e.g. “I” or “me”). 

5. Professional contact details 

If your email address is outdated or unprofessional, create a new one specifically for job applications. Do not use your current work email, as it could cause issues. Make sure your contact details are professional and easy to read. 

6. Follow submission instructions 

Employers often specify how they want applications submitted, including the file format (e.g. PDF, DOCX). Be sure to follow these instructions to ensure your application doesn’t get overlooked. This attention to detail sets you apart from other candidates. 

Looking for a resume template? Explore our resume templates and examples for inspiration. 

How to build a resume: step-by-step guide with examples 

Step 1: Choose the right format 

There are several types of resume formats: chronological, functional, and combination. A chronological resume works best if you have a strong work history, while a functional resume highlights skills, making it a good option for those with limited experience or those changing careers. A combination resume blends both, showcasing skills and experience. 

Step 2: Write a strong summary statement 

The summary statement at the top of your resume should briefly highlight your key qualifications, skills, and career goals. Tailor this section for each application to ensure it reflects the specific job you're targeting. For example: “Experienced marketing professional with a proven track record of increasing brand awareness and driving sales.” 

Learn the exact method to write a summary statement (with examples) here: How to write a resume summary (with examples). 

Step 3: List work experience with impact 

Don’t just list job titles and dates. Focus on achievements and responsibilities. Use action verbs and quantify results when possible, like: “Increased sales by 20% through targeted digital marketing campaigns.” This makes your experience stand out and demonstrates your impact in previous roles. 

Step 4: Highlight education and skills 

If you’re a recent graduate, focus on relevant coursework or projects. For more experienced candidates, emphasise certifications, relevant training, or advanced degrees. In the skills section, list technical and soft skills that are directly relevant to the role you're applying for. 

Step 5: Tailor for each role 

Customise your resume for each job application by emphasising the skills, experiences, and achievements that are most relevant to the specific position. 

Want to tailor your resume for different job applications? Check out How to write a skills-based CV.  

Resume writing tips for different job seekers 

New graduates 

When writing your resume as a new graduate, focus on the skills you’ve gained during your studies that can be applied in the workplace. Include any internships, part-time jobs, volunteer work, or relevant coursework. Even if you don’t have much work experience, highlight skills like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, as well as any successful projects or assignments. 

To showcase achievements effectively, read How to highlight achievements on your resume.

Career changers 

If you're switching industries, focus on skills that can transfer from your previous job to the new one. Look for common skills, like leadership or communication, that are valuable in any field. Also, mention any additional training or courses you’ve completed that help prepare you for the new industry. 

Changing industries? Learn how to write a career change cover letter. 

Experienced professionals 

If you have a lot of experience, highlight your leadership roles and measurable achievements. Instead of listing job duties, focus on the results you’ve achieved, such as improving sales, increasing efficiency, or leading successful projects. Show how your experience has made an impact in previous roles. 

For more ways to make your resume stand out, read key skills to put on a resume. 

The best resume format for Australian jobs 

A well-formatted resume looks clean, organised, and professional. Here are some key tips on how to format your resume: 

1. Use a simple and clean layout: Choose a layout that makes use of clear headings and plenty of white space. This helps recruiters quickly locate the information they're looking for. 

2. Font choice: Stick with easy-to-read fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Use a size between 10-12 pt for the body and 14-16 pt for headings. 

3. Margins: Set your margins to 1 inch on all sides to ensure the resume doesn’t appear cramped. 

4. Alignment: Align text to the left for readability, and make sure your contact details are at the top, followed by your summary, experience, education, and skills sections. 

5. Bullet points: Use bullet points to list achievements and skills in each section, as they are easier to read than large paragraphs of text. 

6. File format: Always save and submit your resume as a PDF, unless otherwise specified. This will preserve your formatting and ensure that your resume looks the same on all devices. 

Follow our step-by-step guide to format your resume here: How to format your resumé. 

Common resume mistakes to avoid 

• Typos and errors: A simple spell-check can prevent embarrassing mistakes. 

• Unprofessional email address: Use a professional-sounding email. 

• Including irrelevant jobs: Stick to what’s relevant to the job you’re applying for. 

• Failure to quantify achievements: Use numbers or percentages to highlight your impact. 

Avoid these pitfalls by following our guide: Common resume mistakes and how to fix them. 

FAQs 

What should I include in my resume? 

A typical resume includes the following sections: contact information, summary statement, work experience, education, skills, and certifications (if applicable). 

How long should my resume be? 

A resume should be one or two pages, depending on your experience. New graduates or those with limited work history should keep it to one page, while more experienced professionals can extend it to two pages. 

How do I tailor my resume for different jobs? 

Adjust your resume for each job application by customising your summary statement, emphasising the skills that are most relevant to the job, and highlighting experience that directly aligns with the role's requirements. 

How do I showcase my achievements on a resume? 

Instead of simply listing your job duties, focus on quantifiable achievements. For example, rather than saying "managed a team," say "led a team of 10 and increased productivity by 15%." 

What is the best resume format for Australian jobs? 

The best resume format in Australia is typically a reverse-chronological resume, which highlights recent work experience first. 

What is the difference between a CV and a resume in Australia? 

In Australia, a resume and a CV are often used interchangeably, but resumes are typically shorter (1–2 pages), while CVs can be longer for academic or research roles.