So, you’re thinking about applying for a job in the Australian Public Service (APS)? Exciting!
But if you’ve started looking at the application requirements, you might be feeling a little overwhelmed with page limits, selection criteria, statements, pitches… it’s a lot to take in.
Here’s the good news: your resume doesn’t have to be perfect; it just has to be effective. And that means making it clear, relevant, and easy to read.
Not sure where to start? No worries.
Here are eight simple tips to help you put together a resume that ticks all the right boxes.
1. Know What’s Required (and What’s Not)
First things first: your resume is just one piece of the puzzle. Most APS jobs also ask for a statement, a pitch, or responses to selection criteria. On top of that, your resume will likely have a strict page limit (usually 2-3 pages).
That means you can’t just list every job you’ve ever had. You’ll need to be selective about what to include. Before you start writing, double-check the job listing to make sure you’re meeting all the requirements.
2. Keep It Simple with a Clean Resume Template
Ever been tempted to use one of those fancy resume templates with lots of colours, icons, and graphics? They look great, but for an APS job, they’re not always the best choice.
APS recruiters care more about the content than the design, and some templates waste a lot of space. Stick to a clean, professional layout that makes it easy to read your experience at a glance.
And one more thing. Make sure you’re using an Australian-style resume format. Some online templates follow American or European standards, which aren’t always relevant here.
You can download our public sector resume template here.
3. Write in the Silent First Person (It’s Not as Weird as It Sounds)
This one feels a little unnatural at first, but APS resumes are usually written in the silent first person.
For example:
🚫 First Person: “I manage budgets, coordinate briefs, and contribute to projects.”
✅ Silent First Person (Preferred Style): “Manage budgets, coordinate briefs, and contribute to projects.”
Why does this matter? Writing in this style keeps things concise and professional. Plus, it saves space. Something that’s especially useful when you’re working with a page limit.
4. Heard of ‘Cracking the Code’? It’s Worth a Look
Some Government Agencies recommend checking out Cracking the Code, an APS guide on job applications.
Is it the ultimate resume-writing bible? Not really. But it does give some useful insights into how APS recruitment works.
If you’re new to the APS job process, it’s worth skimming through. Just don’t expect it to answer all your questions.
5. Focus on What Matters (and Cut the Rest)
With limited space, you need to be strategic about what you include. Here’s what every APS resume should have:
- Personal Details: Name, email, and phone number. No need to include your full home address.
- Career Profile: A short summary (4-5 sentences) that highlights your most relevant skills and experience.
- Education: List only the qualifications that matter for the job. If you have a degree, you can skip high school details.
- Career Summary: Start with your most recent job and work backward. For each role, include your job title, employer, dates of employment, key responsibilities, and any major achievements.
- Other Experience: Volunteering, community work, or committee roles can be a great addition, especially if they’re relevant to the role.
- Referees: Most APS applications require referees (people who can vouch for you). Include their names and contact details, and mention if there are any conditions (e.g., if you don’t want them contacted unless you’re a finalist).
6. Only Include What’s Relevant
One of the biggest mistakes people make is trying to cram in everything they’ve ever done. But here’s the thing: your resume isn’t a life story. It’s a highlights reel.
APS recruiters don’t need to know about that part-time retail job you had 10 years ago (unless it’s directly relevant to the job you’re applying for). Focus on experience that shows why you’d be great in this role.
If it doesn’t add value, leave it out.
7. Make It Easy to Read
You want your resume to be scannable. That means:
✔ Using bullet points instead of long paragraphs
✔ Keeping your language clear and simple
✔ Avoiding unnecessary jargon or filler words
Remember, recruiters don’t have time to dig through walls of text. Make their job easier, and they’re more likely to give your application a second look.
8. Build a Strong ‘Key Skills’ Section
A Key Skills section is a great way to highlight strengths that match the job. The best way to do this? Look at the job description and identify the skills the Agency is looking for. Then, back up those skills with real examples.
A great way to do this is using the CAR method (Challenge, Action, Result), showing how you applied each skill in practice. Example below:
🔹 Strong project management skills to ensure tasks are delivered on time, within scope, and aligned with organisational goals. For example, Ied the rollout of a digital records system by coordinating with cross-functional teams to deliver the project on schedule, which, in turn, improved efficiency by 30%.
By structuring key skills this way, your resume doesn’t just list abilities. It provides proof that you can deliver real results.
Additional Tip: If They Ask for a Pitch, Make It Count
Some APS roles require a pitch, which is a short summary explaining why you’re a great fit for the job. Think of it as a mini cover letter, but even more direct.
A good pitch:
✔ Summarises your most relevant skills and experience
✔ Clearly aligns with the job’s selection criteria
✔ Is short and engaging (usually around 500-800 words)
Not every APS job requires this, but if it does, don’t treat it as an afterthought. It’s your chance to make a strong first impression.
Ready to Rev Up Your Resume? Let’s Make It Happen!
Writing an APS resume can feel a bit daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. With years of experience helping professionals land public sector jobs, we know exactly what it takes to craft a standout application.
Whether you’re transitioning into the APS or looking for a promotion, we can help you fine-tune your resume, structure your selection criteria responses, and make sure your application stands out.
Email us today and let’s get started on your APS job application!
