September 10, 2025 - By Monique Thompson
How to Write a Professional Cover Letter for Australian Job Applications
A compelling cover letter is one of the most influential components of a strong job application in Australia. Despite this, many jobseekers underestimate its importance or rely on generic templates that fail to differentiate them from other applicants. A well written cover letter introduces your professional identity, highlights your alignment with the role and demonstrates that you understand the organisation’s needs. When executed effectively, it sets a confident tone for your resume and significantly increases your chances of securing an interview.
A professional cover letter should be tailored, concise and strategically aligned with the position description or job advertisement. Whether you are applying for private sector roles, APS and state government positions, graduate programs or executive appointments, employers expect clarity, relevance and a demonstration of value. As Australia’s leading provider of professional resume writing services, cover letter writing services and curriculum vitae writing services, 1300 Resume has supported thousands of jobseekers in producing high calibre, employer-ready applications that stand out in highly competitive recruitment markets.
Why a Cover Letter Matters
Recruiters and hiring managers often use cover letters to form an initial impression of your written communication skills, attention to detail and motivation for the role. It provides an opportunity to showcase your personality and demonstrate why you are a suitable cultural and professional fit. A strong cover letter can also clarify complexities in your employment history, such as career changes, relocations, secondments or transitions into new industries.
How to Structure an Effective Australian Cover Letter
A clear and logical structure ensures your message is easy to read and professionally presented. Your cover letter should typically include:
1. A strong opening paragraph
Introduce yourself, reference the position you are applying for and briefly summarise the value you offer. This is where you demonstrate enthusiasm and establish immediate relevance.
2. A tailored demonstration of alignment
Address the key requirements listed in the job advertisement. You may highlight qualifications, technical skills, industry experience or examples of your achievements, depending on the role. Government applications often require explicit reference to capability frameworks or selection criteria.
3. Evidence-based career highlights
Employers value practical examples. Briefly outline one or two impactful achievements that showcase your ability to deliver results, solve problems or support organisational objectives.
4. A clear closing statement
Close with confidence, reaffirming your interest and inviting further discussion. In Australian professional writing standards, it is appropriate to include the sentence: Find attached my resume for your consideration.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many applicants reduce their competitiveness by making simple yet avoidable errors. These may include using a generic template, repeating the resume word-for-word, providing excessive detail or failing to tailor the letter to the company’s needs. Employers also notice formatting inconsistencies, spelling errors and inaccurate naming of roles or organisations. A well written cover letter must be polished, employer-focused and free from unnecessary content.
How Professional Cover Letter Writing Strengthens Your Application
Engaging professional resume writers or cover letter writing services ensures your application meets contemporary recruitment expectations and ATS scanning requirements. At 1300 Resume, our expert writers prepare tailored, strategically structured cover letters that reflect your strengths, professional accomplishments and alignment with industry or government standards. Whether you require an executive cover letter, an APS application, a graduate program letter or a private sector introduction, our team ensures your content is compelling, accurate and professionally positioned.
FAQs About Cover Letters in Australia
Do employers still read cover letters?
Yes. Many Australian hiring managers consider a cover letter essential. It demonstrates effort, professionalism and genuine interest.
How long should a cover letter be?
One page is standard. Keep it concise, relevant and focused on key strengths.
Should I address selection criteria in my cover letter?
If the job advertisement requests it, you should address them briefly. Some government and APS roles require a separate document.
Can one cover letter be used for multiple jobs?
No. Tailoring your letter to each role significantly increases your chances of success.
Should I mention salary expectations?
Only if requested.
Final Thoughts and Call to Action
A professional, well structured cover letter is a powerful tool that communicates your value, strengthens your resume and positions you as a high calibre candidate. It demonstrates not only what you can do, but also why you are motivated to contribute to the organisation. For expert assistance with cover letters, resumes, executive CVs, APS applications and interview preparation, contact our Director, Monique Thompson at 1300 Resume today. With more than 30 years’ experience in professional resume writing services and a track record of supporting over 10,000 clients across Australia, we look forward to helping you present a polished, confident and competitive application