{"id":67582,"date":"2025-10-02T22:43:00","date_gmt":"2025-10-02T22:43:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/?p=67582"},"modified":"2026-01-08T06:15:58","modified_gmt":"2026-01-08T06:15:58","slug":"resume-format","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/resume-format\/","title":{"rendered":"Ultimate Guide To Australian Resume Formats (2026)"},"content":{"rendered":"<span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Reading Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 5<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span>\n<p>Careers come in all shapes and sizes. You must pick a resume format that presents yours in the most flattering light.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Choosing the best resume format will help you highlight your strengths while downplaying your weaknesses. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is instrumental for getting the attention of Australian employers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I\u2019m here to give you the rundown on the three common resume formats in the Australian job market \u2013 <em>Chronological<\/em>, <em>Functional<\/em> and <em>Combination (hybrid)<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>(Related: <a href=\"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/hobbies-for-resume\/\">Best Hobbies To Include On Your Resume<\/a>).<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:40px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>1. Reverse Chronological Resume Format.<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>This format highlights your recent work history by listing your roles in reverse chronological order (most recent to last).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s great for spotlighting your most commercially relevant responsibilities and highlighting your most meaningful achievements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Key elements include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"arrow-wrapper\"><div class=\"arrow-list\"><ul><li><strong>Personal<\/strong> details \u2013 full name, email address and phone number.<\/li><li><strong>Resume<\/strong> summary \u2013 a short introduction that highlights your unique value proposition.<\/li><li><strong>Professional<\/strong> experience &#8211; job title, company, length of employment.<\/li><li><strong>Responsibilities<\/strong> and achievements for the most recent and relevant roles.<\/li><li><strong>Education<\/strong>\/qualifications.<\/li><li><strong>Professional<\/strong> affiliations, languages and other relevant information (optional).<\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:59px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Pros.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Reverse chronological is the most common resume format used by Australian job seekers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s also the one most commonly favoured by Australian recruiters and hiring managers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Why?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It provides the reader with a succinct overview of your work experience while enabling you to create strong narratives that position each role as a strategic career move. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-create-block-tip-block tip-wrapper\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-md-12\"><div class=\"card-wrapper\"><div class=\"card-title\"><div class=\"icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 20\" fill=\"none\"><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M7.5 14.33a5 5 0 1 1 5 0v4.17h-5v-4.17Zm4.25-1.3-.75.44V17H9v-3.53l-.75-.44a3.5 3.5 0 1 1 3.5 0Z\" fill=\"#656E83\"><\/path><path d=\"M9.25 1v2h1.5V1h-1.5ZM5.53 4.47l-1.5-1.5-1.06 1.06 1.5 1.5 1.06-1.06ZM15.53 5.53l1.5-1.5-1.06-1.06-1.5 1.5 1.06 1.06ZM1 10.75h2v-1.5H1v1.5ZM17 10.75h2v-1.5h-2v1.5Z\" fill=\"#656E83\"><\/path><\/svg><\/div><h3 placeholder=\"Tip Title Goes Here\">Important!<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"card-content\"><p placeholder=\"Tip Content Goes Here\">As a result, this format is ideal for demonstrating vertical career progression.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:60px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Cons.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Because of the structure\u2019s linear nature, employment gaps tend to stick out &#8211; as do frequent job changes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And because the emphasis is on work experience, it also tends to highlight a lack of it, so it is not the best format for candidates without a substantial work history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-create-block-tip-block tip-wrapper\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-md-12\"><div class=\"card-wrapper\"><div class=\"card-title\"><div class=\"icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 20\" fill=\"none\"><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M7.5 14.33a5 5 0 1 1 5 0v4.17h-5v-4.17Zm4.25-1.3-.75.44V17H9v-3.53l-.75-.44a3.5 3.5 0 1 1 3.5 0Z\" fill=\"#656E83\"><\/path><path d=\"M9.25 1v2h1.5V1h-1.5ZM5.53 4.47l-1.5-1.5-1.06 1.06 1.5 1.5 1.06-1.06ZM15.53 5.53l1.5-1.5-1.06-1.06-1.5 1.5 1.06 1.06ZM1 10.75h2v-1.5H1v1.5ZM17 10.75h2v-1.5h-2v1.5Z\" fill=\"#656E83\"><\/path><\/svg><\/div><h3 placeholder=\"Tip Title Goes Here\">Are you A CEO?<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"card-content\"><p placeholder=\"Tip Content Goes Here\">I wrote a <a href=\"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/how-to-write-a-ceo-resume\/\">resume writing guide specifically for you<\/a> &#8211; with examples you can copy.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:61px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>2. Functional Resume Format.<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A functional resume format focuses on your skills. It highlights your most relevant abilities in relation to a future role.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Key elements include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"arrow-wrapper\"><div class=\"arrow-list\"><ul><li><strong>Personal<\/strong> details.<\/li><li><strong>Resume<\/strong> summary or career objective.<\/li><li><strong>Core<\/strong> skills listed by theme.<\/li><li><strong>4-5 <\/strong>achievements under each skill.<\/li><li><strong>Professional<\/strong> experience (listed).<\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:60px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Pros.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The Functional format\u2019s emphasis on skills is ideal for highlighting transferrable abilities. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Typically, the format includes a core set of skills, each supported with 4-5 examples that demonstrate how that skill was used to achieve key objectives. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Account Management.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><em>Delivered 20% revenue growth by identifying and converting opportunities across 10 key accounts<\/em><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><em>Maintained a 100% client retention rate through proactive relationship management with a focus on creating value etc.<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>By linking key achievements with your core skill set, this resume format demonstrates your competency beyond a role or industry. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-create-block-tip-block tip-wrapper\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-md-12\"><div class=\"card-wrapper\"><div class=\"card-title\"><div class=\"icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 20\" fill=\"none\"><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M7.5 14.33a5 5 0 1 1 5 0v4.17h-5v-4.17Zm4.25-1.3-.75.44V17H9v-3.53l-.75-.44a3.5 3.5 0 1 1 3.5 0Z\" fill=\"#656E83\"><\/path><path d=\"M9.25 1v2h1.5V1h-1.5ZM5.53 4.47l-1.5-1.5-1.06 1.06 1.5 1.5 1.06-1.06ZM15.53 5.53l1.5-1.5-1.06-1.06-1.5 1.5 1.06 1.06ZM1 10.75h2v-1.5H1v1.5ZM17 10.75h2v-1.5h-2v1.5Z\" fill=\"#656E83\"><\/path><\/svg><\/div><h3 placeholder=\"Tip Title Goes Here\">Important!<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"card-content\"><p placeholder=\"Tip Content Goes Here\">This format minimises the focus on your employment gaps.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:60px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Cons.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>As the structure is not linear, this resume format makes it challenging to demonstrate a clear upward career trajectory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Consequently, it can make a seasoned professional look more inexperienced than they are. Additionally, some <a href=\"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/how-to-write-a-resume-that-passes-through-applicant-tracking-systems-ats\/\">ATS systems have difficulty<\/a> with this particular format.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:42px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>3. Combination Resume Format.<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As the name suggests, the combination (or hybrid) resume format balances the chronological format\u2019s focus on work history with the functional format\u2019s focus on skills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It showcases your work experience and time spent at each position while highlighting the skills that you&#8217;ve acquired in each role.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Key elements include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"arrow-wrapper\"><div class=\"arrow-list\"><ul><li><strong>Personal<\/strong> details.<\/li><li><strong>Resume<\/strong> summary or summary of qualifications.<\/li><li><strong>Core<\/strong> skills listed by theme.<\/li><li><strong>Professional<\/strong> experience with a strong emphasis on skills acquired.<\/li><li><strong>Education<\/strong>.<\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:59px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Pros.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>With an equal emphasis on skills and experience, this format is best for highlighting relevant areas of a career in relation to a target role, while <a href=\"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/how-to-write-highly-persuasive-resume-achievements\/\">providing context for key skills and achievements<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:60px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Cons.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Like the Functional format, the Combination format can highlight gaps in your work history. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also, for it to be truly effective, your skills and achievements have to be complementary. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"indent-wrapper\"><div class=\"indented-text\"><span>There is also a risk that the resume can sound repetitive.<\/span><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Confused? You can save time and minimise frustration by using our <a href=\"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/resume-writing-services\/\">CV experts in Sydney, Melbourne and across Australia<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:60px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Which Resume Format Is Right For You?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Begin by honestly assessing your current career level, your work history and your target role.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-create-block-tip-block tip-wrapper\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-md-12\"><div class=\"card-wrapper\"><div class=\"card-title\"><div class=\"icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 20\" fill=\"none\"><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M7.5 14.33a5 5 0 1 1 5 0v4.17h-5v-4.17Zm4.25-1.3-.75.44V17H9v-3.53l-.75-.44a3.5 3.5 0 1 1 3.5 0Z\" fill=\"#656E83\"><\/path><path d=\"M9.25 1v2h1.5V1h-1.5ZM5.53 4.47l-1.5-1.5-1.06 1.06 1.5 1.5 1.06-1.06ZM15.53 5.53l1.5-1.5-1.06-1.06-1.5 1.5 1.06 1.06ZM1 10.75h2v-1.5H1v1.5ZM17 10.75h2v-1.5h-2v1.5Z\" fill=\"#656E83\"><\/path><\/svg><\/div><h3 placeholder=\"Tip Title Goes Here\">Important!<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"card-content\"><p placeholder=\"Tip Content Goes Here\"><strong>\u00a0<\/strong>If you are new to the Australian job market or have a limited work history, the Functional format\u2019s focus on skills will probably be the best option for you.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-create-block-tip-block tip-wrapper\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-md-12\"><div class=\"card-wrapper\"><div class=\"card-title\"><div class=\"icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 20\" fill=\"none\"><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M7.5 14.33a5 5 0 1 1 5 0v4.17h-5v-4.17Zm4.25-1.3-.75.44V17H9v-3.53l-.75-.44a3.5 3.5 0 1 1 3.5 0Z\" fill=\"#656E83\"><\/path><path d=\"M9.25 1v2h1.5V1h-1.5ZM5.53 4.47l-1.5-1.5-1.06 1.06 1.5 1.5 1.06-1.06ZM15.53 5.53l1.5-1.5-1.06-1.06-1.5 1.5 1.06 1.06ZM1 10.75h2v-1.5H1v1.5ZM17 10.75h2v-1.5h-2v1.5Z\" fill=\"#656E83\"><\/path><\/svg><\/div><h3 placeholder=\"Tip Title Goes Here\">Important!<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"card-content\"><p placeholder=\"Tip Content Goes Here\">If you have an extensive work history and a linear career trajectory, then a Chronological format is best positioned to highlight your value to a future employer.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-create-block-tip-block tip-wrapper\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-md-12\"><div class=\"card-wrapper\"><div class=\"card-title\"><div class=\"icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 20\" fill=\"none\"><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M7.5 14.33a5 5 0 1 1 5 0v4.17h-5v-4.17Zm4.25-1.3-.75.44V17H9v-3.53l-.75-.44a3.5 3.5 0 1 1 3.5 0Z\" fill=\"#656E83\"><\/path><path d=\"M9.25 1v2h1.5V1h-1.5ZM5.53 4.47l-1.5-1.5-1.06 1.06 1.5 1.5 1.06-1.06ZM15.53 5.53l1.5-1.5-1.06-1.06-1.5 1.5 1.06 1.06ZM1 10.75h2v-1.5H1v1.5ZM17 10.75h2v-1.5h-2v1.5Z\" fill=\"#656E83\"><\/path><\/svg><\/div><h3 placeholder=\"Tip Title Goes Here\">Important!<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"card-content\"><p placeholder=\"Tip Content Goes Here\">If you have long gaps in your resume, are embarking on a career change, or have a very diverse job history, then opt for either a Functional or Combination format.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Most importantly, always tailor your resume for the target role. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If the job description has a heavy focus on proven skills and abilities, then opt for a Combination format &#8211; even if you have strong experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>However, if the job description emphasises proven success and vertical experience, then it is best to choose a Chronological format.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:40px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What Is The Best Resume Format For Australian Managers?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Managers have the option of using any of the three resume formats. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, Chronological and Combination are most common, as they&#8217;re best at demonstrating a manager&#8217;s skills and experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a rough guide, use Chronological if you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"arrow-wrapper\"><div class=\"arrow-list\"><ul><li><strong>Can<\/strong> demonstrate a strong career progression.<\/li><li><strong>Dedicated<\/strong> the majority of your career to one industry.<\/li><li><strong>Have<\/strong> minimal gaps between roles.<\/li><li><strong>Are<\/strong> applying for a role in a similar field.<\/li><li><strong>Are<\/strong> applying for a role in the same industry as former roles.<\/li><li><strong>Are<\/strong> seeking to highlight promotions.<\/li><li><strong>Have<\/strong> recent work history (usually the last 2-3 roles) relevant to the target role.<\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Use Combination if you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"arrow-wrapper\"><div class=\"arrow-list\"><ul><li><strong>Have<\/strong> a consistent work history, but only with a few employers.<\/li><li><strong>Are<\/strong> a junior to mid-level candidate and want to highlight transferrable skills.<\/li><li><strong>Are<\/strong> embarking on a role or industry change.<\/li><li><strong>Have<\/strong> a diverse job history.<\/li><li><strong>Are<\/strong> returning to the job market after a considerable absence.<\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Use Functional if you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"arrow-wrapper\"><div class=\"arrow-list\"><ul><li><strong>Have<\/strong> been out of the job market for a significant period of time.<\/li><li><strong>Have<\/strong> skills and achievements that don&#8217;t complement each other.<\/li><li><strong>Don&#8217;t<\/strong> meet all the job criteria.<\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:41px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What Is The Best Resume Format For Australian Executives?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Functional resume format, although suitable for more junior roles, is unsuitable for executives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Executive recruiters want to present your experience in the Chronological resume format &#8211; because it immediately highlights inconsistencies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This isn\u2019t to say that the Chronological format is the only option for executives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-create-block-tip-block tip-wrapper\"><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-md-12\"><div class=\"card-wrapper\"><div class=\"card-title\"><div class=\"icon\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 20\" fill=\"none\"><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M7.5 14.33a5 5 0 1 1 5 0v4.17h-5v-4.17Zm4.25-1.3-.75.44V17H9v-3.53l-.75-.44a3.5 3.5 0 1 1 3.5 0Z\" fill=\"#656E83\"><\/path><path d=\"M9.25 1v2h1.5V1h-1.5ZM5.53 4.47l-1.5-1.5-1.06 1.06 1.5 1.5 1.06-1.06ZM15.53 5.53l1.5-1.5-1.06-1.06-1.5 1.5 1.06 1.06ZM1 10.75h2v-1.5H1v1.5ZM17 10.75h2v-1.5h-2v1.5Z\" fill=\"#656E83\"><\/path><\/svg><\/div><h3 placeholder=\"Tip Title Goes Here\">Did You Know?<\/h3><\/div><div class=\"card-content\"><p placeholder=\"Tip Content Goes Here\">If you\u2019re a senior leader looking to pivot into another role or sector, you may need to showcase a transferable skillset that is relevant to your target direction. That\u2019s where the Combination format comes into play.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>The key to making the Combination format sing lies in creating a compelling front page that aligns your unique value proposition with the target role.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By supporting your core skillset with your most impressive, complementary achievements, you&#8217;ll draw attention to the most relevant areas of your work history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:40px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>5 Most Deadly Resume Format Mistakes.<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Now that you\u2019ve picked the right format for your resume, here are some pitfalls you must avoid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:59px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Align Your Content To The Left.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When scanning a document, the eye naturally pivots back to the left margin after finishing a line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Recruiters will typically spend only a few seconds scanning your document. Make the experience as easy as possible for them by aligning your content to the left. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"indent-wrapper\"><div class=\"indented-text\"><span>This is also the standard for most professional documents.<\/span><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:60px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Use Easy-To-Read Fonts.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Don\u2019t get too fancy with fonts. There\u2019s nothing more off-putting for a recruiter than trying to decipher a cursive font. The best fonts are the ones that are easy to read and don\u2019t get in the way of content.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"indent-wrapper\"><div class=\"indented-text\"><span>These include Calibri, Arial Narrow, Trebuchet MS, Garamond, Helvetica and Cambria.<\/span><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Remember &#8211; the goal is to make the resume as reader-friendly as possible. Rather than trying to make the font smaller to fit in more text, consider editing the text to keep the font size larger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:60px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Use White Space.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>You&#8217;ll be tempted to maximise every last bit of real estate on the page.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Don&#8217;t.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You&#8217;ll improve your chances of getting a job if you include ample white space that helps guide the reader\u2019s eyes and enhances readability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:59px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Use The Correct File Format.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Often, a job posting will request that a job application be sent in a specific file format.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Occasionally, a recruiter will request a PDF, but more often than not, the standard file format is Microsoft Word, or more specifically, .docx. If a file format isn\u2019t specified, send your resume as a .docx file.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:59px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Don&#8217;t Be A Drag.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/how-long-should-a-resume-be\/\">ideal resume length<\/a> depends on your career level and the extent of your work experience. In the US, resumes are typically restricted to 1-2 pages, while in Australia it&#8217;s OK for a resume to be 3-5 pages in length.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For new graduates, resumes are typically 1-2 pages long.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&#8211; Irene<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p><span class=\"span-reading-time rt-reading-time\" style=\"display: block;\"><span class=\"rt-label rt-prefix\">Reading Time: <\/span> <span class=\"rt-time\"> 5<\/span> <span class=\"rt-label rt-postfix\">minutes<\/span><\/span>Careers come in all shapes and sizes. You must pick a resume format that presents yours in the most flattering<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":73299,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"_uag_custom_page_level_css":"","_lmt_disableupdate":"","_lmt_disable":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[4,38],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-67582","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-career","category-resume"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.0 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Ultimate Guide To Australian Resume Formats (2026)<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Grab an Australian employer&#039;s attention by choosing the right resume format. Learn how to choose a resume format that works best for you.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/resume-format\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Ultimate Guide To Australian Resume Formats (2026)\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Grab an Australian employer&#039;s attention by choosing the right resume format. Learn how to choose a resume format that works best for you.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/resume-format\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Arielle Executive\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/ArielleExecutive\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2025-10-02T22:43:00+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-01-08T06:15:58+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/resume-format-australia.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1490\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"838\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Irene McConnell\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@arielleexec\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@arielleexec\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Irene McConnell\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"7 minutes\" \/>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Ultimate Guide To Australian Resume Formats (2026)","description":"Grab an Australian employer's attention by choosing the right resume format. Learn how to choose a resume format that works best for you.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/resume-format\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Ultimate Guide To Australian Resume Formats (2026)","og_description":"Grab an Australian employer's attention by choosing the right resume format. Learn how to choose a resume format that works best for you.","og_url":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/resume-format\/","og_site_name":"Arielle Executive","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/ArielleExecutive\/","article_published_time":"2025-10-02T22:43:00+00:00","article_modified_time":"2026-01-08T06:15:58+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1490,"height":838,"url":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/resume-format-australia.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"Irene McConnell","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_creator":"@arielleexec","twitter_site":"@arielleexec","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Irene McConnell","Est. reading time":"7 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/resume-format\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/resume-format\/"},"author":{"name":"Irene McConnell","@id":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/#\/schema\/person\/360aa658ee23006e71fb65370e9c6a9e"},"headline":"Ultimate Guide To Australian Resume Formats (2026)","datePublished":"2025-10-02T22:43:00+00:00","dateModified":"2026-01-08T06:15:58+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/resume-format\/"},"wordCount":1523,"commentCount":0,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/resume-format\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/resume-format-australia.jpg","articleSection":["Career","Resume &amp; LinkedIn Advice"],"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"CommentAction","name":"Comment","target":["https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/resume-format\/#respond"]}]},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/resume-format\/","url":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/resume-format\/","name":"Ultimate Guide To Australian Resume Formats (2026)","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/resume-format\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/resume-format\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/resume-format-australia.jpg","datePublished":"2025-10-02T22:43:00+00:00","dateModified":"2026-01-08T06:15:58+00:00","description":"Grab an Australian employer's attention by choosing the right resume format. Learn how to choose a resume format that works best for you.","inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/resume-format\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/resume-format\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/resume-format-australia.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/resume-format-australia.jpg","width":1490,"height":838,"caption":"resume format australia"},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/#website","url":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/","name":"Arielle Executive","description":"","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/#organization","name":"Arielle Executive","url":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/arielle-executive-aex-icon.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/arielle-executive-aex-icon.jpg","width":600,"height":600,"caption":"Arielle Executive"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/ArielleExecutive\/","https:\/\/x.com\/arielleexec","https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/arielle-executive\/"]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/#\/schema\/person\/360aa658ee23006e71fb65370e9c6a9e","name":"Irene McConnell","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/cropped-irene-mcconnell-arielle-executive-96x96.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/cropped-irene-mcconnell-arielle-executive-96x96.jpg","caption":"Irene McConnell"},"description":"I founded three separate companies over the past decade to help leaders and organisations do their best work. Arielle Executive helps leaders get noticed while Arielle Partners &amp; Talent Avenue connect organisations to Australia's best leadership talent.","sameAs":["https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/irenekotov\/"],"url":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/author\/irene-mcconnell\/"}]}},"modified_by":"Steven McConnell","uagb_featured_image_src":{"full":["https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/resume-format-australia.jpg",1490,838,false],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/resume-format-australia-150x150.jpg",150,150,true],"medium":["https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/resume-format-australia-300x169.jpg",300,169,true],"medium_large":["https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/resume-format-australia-768x432.jpg",768,432,true],"large":["https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/resume-format-australia-1024x576.jpg",1024,576,true],"1536x1536":["https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/resume-format-australia.jpg",1490,838,false],"2048x2048":["https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/resume-format-australia.jpg",1490,838,false],"alm-thumbnail":["https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/resume-format-australia-150x150.jpg",150,150,true]},"uagb_author_info":{"display_name":"Irene McConnell","author_link":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/author\/irene-mcconnell\/"},"uagb_comment_info":5,"uagb_excerpt":"Reading Time: 5 minutesCareers come in all shapes and sizes. You must pick a resume format that presents yours in the most flattering","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/67582","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=67582"}],"version-history":[{"count":39,"href":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/67582\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":121105,"href":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/67582\/revisions\/121105"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/73299"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=67582"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=67582"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/arielle.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=67582"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}