Résumé format guide
How to write a résumé for Australia and New Zealand
Australian and New Zealand résumés are a little longer than American ones — two to three pages — and use British spelling. Working rights are a common screening question, so put yours on the first page.
At a glance
- Called
- Résumé
- Length
- 2 pages (up to 3 if senior)
- Paper
- A4
- Photo
- Leave it out
- Date of birth, marital status
- Never include
- Spelling
- British English (optimise, colour)
- Languages
- Plain level (native, fluent, professional)
The rules recruiters in Australia and New Zealand expect
- Two to three pages of A4 is normal.
- No photo, age or marital status.
- British/Australian spelling (optimise, organisation).
- Referees are often listed at the end, or “Referees available on request”.
- State your visa / working rights clearly.
Leave these out
- Photo
- Date of birth or age
- Marital status or children
- Nationality or religion
- “References available upon request”
Applying from abroad?
Recruiters’ first question is whether you can legally work there. Answer it on the first page — for example “Australian Permanent Resident” or “Full working rights (subclass 482 visa)”. Write your phone number with the country code, and put your target city in your location (“Relocating to Sydney”).
Check your résumé against the rules for Australia and New Zealand
Free ATS check with local conventions — spelling, personal details, length and keywords.
FAQ
Should I put a photo on my résumé in Australia and New Zealand?
No. In Australia and New Zealand, photos are generally left out to avoid discrimination concerns, and some recruiters discard résumés that include one.
How long should a résumé be in Australia and New Zealand?
2 pages for most candidates; up to 3 if you have 10+ years of relevant experience.
How do I show my work status as an international applicant?
Add one clear line near the top, for example "Australian Permanent Resident" or "Full working rights (subclass 482 visa)". It answers the recruiter’s first screening question before they have to ask.
Should I use US or UK spelling?
British spelling (optimise, organisation, colour) — and be consistent throughout.