CV and résumé advice for finding a job in Australia

FIRST things first – for jobs in Australia, a CV (Curriculum Vitae) is called a résumé. The term CV is understood, but is not the norm.

For most highly-qualified positions, the format of your CV/résumé should be the same as you would prepare it for a UK employer.

For the majority of other types of work, the preference in Australia is for the American style résumé - which features more information about soft skills, your personal traits and aspirations. The more formal UK style CV in most cases is acceptable in Australia, however adjusting it to the US résumé style will probably increase your chances.

Your résumé is your sales pitch to prospective employers in Australia. It needs to be concise, but not to the point of hiding key job accomplishments and duties you have performed in your career back in the UK. Two to three pages is usually about right.

Apart from that, your résumé should include personal details, education details and certifications, work experience and two referees.

You should also indicate which visa you are on, and a short description of your skills and work ethic. Soft skills are key to getting a job in Australia, and that is what differentiates it from the UK jobs market.

It’s always best to seek the advice of a reputable recruitment agency either before or once you move to Australia, who will help you polish your document to give you the best chance of finding work in your sector.

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