Australian Cover Letter Guide 2026 — Format, Tone, and Tips

Australian cover letters have their own conventions — and getting them right signals to AU employers that you understand the local market. This guide covers everything you need for a standout AU cover letter in 2026.

AU Cover Letter Format

• One page maximum for most roles
• A4 format, Calibri or Arial 11pt
• Australian English spelling (same as NZ — colour, organise, recognise)
• Start with the date, then a blank line, then "Dear [Name / Hiring Manager],"
• 3–4 paragraphs
• End with "Kind regards" or "Yours sincerely"

How AU Cover Letters Differ from NZ

Australian cover letters are slightly more formal in tone than NZ cover letters. The Kiwi directness and warmth that works well in NZ should be moderated for AU — particularly for corporate, government, and legal roles. Achievement quantification is expected at the same level as the AU resume — every achievement needs a number.

AU Government Cover Letters

Government roles in Australia (Commonwealth and state) typically require you to address specific selection criteria in your cover letter or a separate statement. This is more formally structured than NZ public service applications. Each criterion must be addressed with a separate STAR example and concrete evidence.

What NOT to Include in an AU Cover Letter

• Date of birth, age, or nationality
• Marital status or personal information
• Salary expectations (unless specifically requested)
• Photo attachments
• More than one page