In this complete guide for job seekers, you'll learn how to write a professional cover letter that complements your CV and meets Australian hiring standards.
1. Understanding the Australian Cover Letter Style
Australian employers value clarity, professionalism, and relevance. Your cover letter should:
-Be no more than one page in length.
-Be personalised for each job application.
-Match your tone and structure to Australian workplace norms: clear, direct, and confident.
-Avoid repetition of your CV; instead, explain how your experience meets the specific job requirements.
2. Cover Letter Format in Australia
A standard Australian cover letter includes the following elements:
Header (Your Contact Information)
Include your full name, phone number, email address, LinkedIn profile (optional), and your current location.
Example:
John Smith
+61 412 345 678
johnsmith@email.com
linkedin.com/in/johnsmith
Sydney, NSW
Date and Employer’s Contact Details
Add the date and employer’s name, job title (if known), company name, and company address.
Example:
10 May 2025
Ms. Jane Doe
HR Manager
XYZ Corporation
123 George Street
Sydney, NSW 2000
Salutation
Use a formal greeting. If you know the recipient's name, use it. Otherwise, use:
"Dear Hiring Manager,"
3. Structure of the Letter
Introduction
State the role you’re applying for and how you found it. Briefly introduce yourself.
Example:
I am writing to express my interest in the Marketing Assistant position advertised on SEEK. With over three years of experience in digital marketing and a strong background in social media strategy, I am excited to bring my skills to XYZ Corporation.
Middle Paragraph(s): Tailor Your Experience
Connect your previous experience and skills directly to the job description. Highlight how your background matches the requirements of the role.
Example:
In my previous role at ABC Media, I managed a team that increased client engagement by 40% through targeted campaigns. I also have experience with SEO, content writing, and analytics tools such as Google Analytics and SEMrush.
Use this section to show you understand the company’s goals and how you can contribute.
Closing Paragraph
Express enthusiasm and reiterate your suitability. Mention your attached CV and indicate your availability for an interview.
Example:
I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to join your team and contribute to XYZ Corporation’s success. Please find my CV attached for your review. I am available for an interview at your convenience and can be contacted by phone or email.
Formal Closing
Use a professional closing line followed by your full name.
Example:
Kind regards,
John Smith
4. Key Tips for Success
-Tailor each cover letter to the specific role.
-Use keywords from the job description.
-Keep the language clear and concise.
-Avoid overly personal details or generic phrases.
-Always proofread before submitting.
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid
-Using the same letter for every job.
-Repeating your CV word-for-word.
-Writing more than one page.
-Forgetting to include your contact information or the company details.
6. Matching Your Cover Letter with Your CV
A professional cover letter should complement your CV, not copy it. Make sure:
- Both documents have the same formatting, font, and layout style.
- Your tone is professional and confident across both.
- Your qualifications and achievements are highlighted consistently.
Download a Sample Cover Letter Template (Word and PDF)
I've also created a downloadable cover letter template matching the Australian CV format to help you get started easily. Would you like me to generate that for you now?