Australia Resume Format (AUS): Sections, Length & Tips
The Australia resume format in 2025 emphasizes clarity, conciseness, and relevance to the local job market. Understanding the key sections, length expectations, and formatting tips tailored for Australia can help applicants submit ATS-optimized resumes that attract recruiter attention.
| Australia Resume Norms at a Glance |
|---|
| Length: Usually 2 to 3 pages |
| Key sections: Contact info, Summary, Skills, Experience, Education |
| Photo: Optional but often excluded |
| Paper Size: A4 |
| Date Format: DD/MM/YYYY |
What’s Different vs. US Resumes
| Feature | Australia Resume | US Resume |
|---|---|---|
| Length | Typically 2-3 pages | Usually 1 page |
| Photo | Optional, often excluded | Generally excluded |
| Personal Info | Includes city/state but no full address | Typically city/state only |
| Date Format | DD/MM/YYYY | MM/DD/YYYY |
| Language & Spelling | Australian English (e.g., “organise”) | American English |
Australian resumes are often more detailed than US ones but less formal than UK CVs.
Formatting & File Setup (A4, Date Formats)
- Paper Size: Use A4 format (21 x 29.7 cm) for applications in Australia.
- Font: Use clean, professional fonts such as Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman at 10-12pt size.
- Margins: Standard 2.5 cm (1 inch) margins work best.
- Date Format: Use the Australian standard DD/MM/YYYY (e.g., 23/08/2025).
- File Type: Submit as PDF for best formatting retention, DOCX accepted if requested.
- ATS Compatibility: Simplify formatting by avoiding tables, headers, footers, and graphics. Use bullet points and clear headings.
Essential Sections in an Australian Resume
1. Contact Information
- Full name
- Phone number (include country code +61 if applying internationally)
- Email address (professional)
- LinkedIn URL (optional)
- No photo unless requested
2. Professional Summary
A brief, targeted statement outlining your career goals and key qualifications.
3. Skills
Highlight technical competencies and soft skills relevant to the role.
4. Work Experience
- List roles in reverse-chronological order
- Give job title, company name, location (city/state), and date range
- Use bullet points to show achievements and responsibilities with metrics if possible
5. Education
Include degrees, institutions, and graduation dates.
6. Additional Sections (Optional)
- Certifications and training
- Volunteer work
- Professional memberships
- Interests (if relevant)
Examples/Templates
Professional Summary Example
Detail-oriented financial analyst with 5 years’ experience optimizing investment strategies and improving reporting accuracy. Proven track record of increasing portfolio returns by 15%. Seeking to contribute expertise to [Company Name].
Work Experience Example
Marketing Coordinator
XYZ Pty Ltd, Sydney, NSW | 01/03/2022 – Present
- Developed targeted digital campaigns that boosted engagement by 25%.
- Coordinated cross-departmental initiatives that increased lead generation.
Compliance and Anti-Bias Notes
- Australian anti-discrimination laws discourage inclusion of personal details like age, marital status, or photos to prevent bias.
- Focus your resume on skills, qualifications, and achievements.
FAQ
Q: How long should an Australian resume be?
A: Typically 2-3 pages, balancing detail and conciseness.
Q: Should I include a photo?
A: Usually no, unless explicitly requested.
Q: What date format should I use?
A: Use DD/MM/YYYY consistent with Australian standards.
Q: Should I include my full address?
A: City and state are sufficient in most cases.
