Resume format guide
Australia & New Zealand resume format
In Australia the document is usually called a resume, and in New Zealand a CV. Either way it is typically two pages, opens with a short career summary and keeps personal details to a minimum. These are general norms, so check the job posting.
At a glance
Length
2 pages is a safe default. 3 can be fine with a lot of experience.
Photo
Usually left out
Paper size
A4
Date format
MMM YYYY
What to include on a Australia / New Zealand resume
General expectations, not strict rules. Employers differ, so check the job posting.
- PhotoUsually left out
- NationalityUsually left out
- Visa statusOptional
- Date of birthUsually left out
- Marital statusUsually left out
- Notice periodOptional
- LanguagesOptional
- ReferencesOptional
How to lay out your resume, top to bottom
- 1Name and contact details (phone, email, city; LinkedIn is optional)
- 2Career summary (3 to 4 lines)
- 3Key skills (optional)
- 4Work experience, newest first, with achievements
- 5Education and qualifications
- 6Work rights, in one line, if you are not a citizen or permanent resident
- 7Referees: 'available on request' or two named referees
Tips
- Keep personal details to name, phone, email and city.
- If you are not a citizen or permanent resident, add one short line about your work rights.
- Open with a short career summary, then experience newest first with achievements.
Keep in mind
- Employers don't usually expect a photo.
- Date of birth, marital status and nationality are normally left off.
Frequently asked questions
Should I put a photo on an Australian or NZ resume?
No. Employers do not normally expect one, and many recruiters prefer resumes without a photo.
How long should it be?
Two pages is a safe default. Experienced candidates sometimes use three. Put the most relevant experience first.
Do I need to mention my visa or work rights?
If you are not a citizen or permanent resident, a short line such as 'Full work rights' or your visa type can save recruiters a question. Otherwise it is optional.
Should I include date of birth, marital status or nationality?
No. These are normally left off.
Do I need to list referees?
Not necessarily. 'Referees available on request' is common, and some candidates list two with their contact details.
Ready to build a Australia / New Zealand resume?
We will pick templates and tips that suit this format, and you can change anything in the builder.