cover letter examples for government jobs australia

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Cover Letters for Public Service Careers in Australia

Introduction

When it comes to applying for a government job, your cover letter can make or break your chances of landing the position. It is your first opportunity to make a strong impression on the hiring manager (which might be in HR or your new boss) and showcase your skills and qualifications. In this article, we will discuss how to write an effective cover letter for government jobs, including tips and best practices.

Components of Cover Letter

A cover letter typically includes the following components:

1. Contact Information

This includes your;

a. Full name, 

b. Address, 

c. Phone number,  

d. Email address, 

e. The date,

f. The contact information of the employer or hiring manager you are addressing.

2. Salutation

This is the greeting at the beginning of your letter. You should address the recipient by name if possible (if it’s not on the position description, see what you can find out via the Org Chart or LinkedIn), or, if absolutely necessary, use a generic greeting such as;

a. “Dear Hiring Manager” 

b. “To Whom It May Concern.”

3. Introduction

In the opening paragraph, you should briefly introduce yourself and state the position you are applying for. You might also mention how you learned about the job opening or why you are interested in the company.

The body of your letter should explain why you are a good fit for the job. You can highlight your relevant skills and experience, and provide specific examples of your accomplishments that demonstrate your qualifications for the position.

In the closing paragraph, you should express your enthusiasm for the job and thank the employer for considering your application. You might also include a sentence about following up on your application, such as “I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my suitability with you further.”

6. Signature

End the letter with a professional closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Kind regards,” followed by your full name and signature.

Mechanics of writing a cover letter for Australian Government Jobs

When writing a cover letter for an Australian Government job, there are a few specific things to keep in mind. Here are some tips for the mechanics of writing a cover letter for Australian Government jobs:

1. Format your Letter According to the Guidelines

The Australian Government often has specific guidelines for formatting cover letters, so be sure to follow them closely. This may include using a certain font and font size, including specific information in your header and footer, and using a certain file format.

2. Address The Key Selection Criteria

Many Australian Government jobs require applicants to address key selection criteria in their cover letter. These criteria are usually listed in the job description or selection documentation, and you will need to provide specific examples of how you meet each one.

3. Use Clear and Concise Language

Be sure to use clear and concise language in your cover letter. Avoid using technical jargon or acronyms that the reader may not understand, and make sure your sentences are easy to follow.

4. Showcase your Achievements and Experience

Use your cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and achievements. Provide specific examples of how you have demonstrated the skills and experience required for the job.

5. Use A Professional Tone

Your cover letter should be written in a professional tone. Avoid using slang or colloquial language, and make sure your letter is free from spelling and grammar errors. Get someone else to proofread the letter for you if you can.

6. Tailor Your Letter To The Job

Finally, make sure you tailor your cover letter to the specific job you are applying for. Research the organisation and the job requirements, and make sure your letter demonstrates how you are a good fit for the position.

How to Write a Cover Letter for a Government Job

1. research the job and organisation.

Before you start writing your cover letter, it is important to research the job and organisation you are applying to. This will help you tailor your letter to the specific requirements and needs of the position and demonstrate your understanding of the organisation’s mission and values.

Take some time to review the job posting and make note of the key qualifications, responsibilities, and requirements. You should also explore the organisation’s website and social media channels to gain a better understanding of its culture and priorities.

2. Address the Hiring Manager

When writing your cover letter, it is important to address the hiring manager by name if possible. This shows that you have taken the time to research the organisation and demonstrates your professionalism.

If you cannot find the hiring manager’s name, address the letter to the appropriate department or use a generic greeting such as “Dear Hiring Manager.”

3. Introduce Yourself and Your Interest in the Position

Your first paragraph should introduce yourself and express your interest in the position. Be sure to mention the specific job title and explain why you are interested in the position and organisation.

For example, you might write:

“I am writing to express my strong interest in the Policy Analyst position with the Department of Health and Human Services. As a passionate advocate for public health and a skilled analyst, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the Department’s important work in this area.”

4. Highlight Your Skills and Qualifications

In the next few paragraphs, you should highlight your relevant skills and qualifications. This is where you can really demonstrate why you are the best candidate for the job.

Refer back to the job posting and make sure to address each of the key qualifications and responsibilities. Use specific examples and metrics to illustrate your experience and accomplishments.

For example:

“As a Policy Analyst with over five years of experience in the public health sector, I have developed a strong understanding of policy development and analysis. In my current role at the National Institute of Health, I led the development of a comprehensive policy framework for reducing tobacco use among youth, which resulted in a 20% decrease in youth smoking rates over two years. I also collaborated with stakeholders across the government and private sector to develop a national public education campaign on the dangers of vaping.”

5. Emphasise Your Fit with the Organisation

In addition to highlighting your skills and qualifications, it is important to emphasise your fit with the organisation. This can include your alignment with the organisation’s mission and values, your experience working in a similar environment, and your ability to work collaboratively with others.

For example;

“I am excited about the opportunity to join the Department of Health and Human Services because of its commitment to promoting the health and well-being of all Australians. My experience working in the public health sector has prepared me well for the challenges of this role, and I am confident that my skills in policy development and analysis, as well as my ability to collaborate effectively with stakeholders, will enable me to make a valuable contribution to the Department’s work.”

6. Close with a Strong Call to Action

Finally, your cover letter should close with a strong call to action. This should include a clear statement of your interest in moving forward with the application process and your contact information.

“Thank you for considering my application for the Policy Analyst position with the Department of Health and Human Services. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications in more detail and to learn more.”

Overall, writing a strong cover letter is an essential part of applying for a government job. By taking the time to research the position and organisation, tailor your letter to the job requirements, and highlight your skills and qualifications, you can increase your chances of landing the job you want.

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Cover letters

A cover letter includes an introduction to yourself, and a summary of how your experience matches the job description.  

Free one-on-one cover letter assistance

A NSW Careers practitioner will work with you to understand your needs and provide free tailored support as you prepare your cover letter.

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What to include

• A professional introduction Address your cover letter to the contact person in the job advertisement. If there is no contact person, find out who to address your application to, or address to the “Hiring manager”. Tell them what job you are applying for, and where you saw it advertised. Address the person formally. For example, if their name is Jane Smith, write ‘Dear Ms Smith’, rather than Jane.
• A personal summary Write 1 or 2 sentences about why you are applying for the job and a statement explaining how your skills and experience are relevant to the role. 
• How your experience matches the job Read the job advertisement closely. Write about how your work experience, skills and training would make you a suitable person for the position described, based on the selection criteria in the job advertisement or the position description. 
• A polite conclusion Sum up the letter by restating your suitability for the position due to your skills, experience and how the values or goals of the organisation are aligned with yours. Thank the employer for their time and consideration. End the letter by saying you look forward to an opportunity to discuss the job further. 
• Your name and contact details Make sure the employer knows how to contact you.  

How to format

• The right length Your cover letter should be 1 page. Employers are busy and may have many job applications to read.
• Simple design Make your cover letter easy to read. Use Calibri or Arial font in size 11. If you need help with the layout,  here is some inspiration . Do not include images or colours.  

Additional tips

• No mistakes Check for spelling and grammatical mistakes before sending your letter.
• Tailored content Always write your cover letter specifically for each role and organisation. Avoid sending a generic cover letter to multiple organisations.

Talk to a specialist

For free and personalised career support, talk to a Careers NSW careers practitioner or an industry expert.  

Resumes or CVs

What to include on a resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV).

Cover letter examples

Don't know where to start?​ Use our resume templates and cover letter examples.

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How to write a resume and cover letter

A resume is a written record of your education, skills and experience. It provides a summary of your work history, training and knowledge.

A CV (curriculum vitae) is similar but tends to be longer and more detailed. Although both terms are often used in Australia, we will refer to resumes here.

As well as your resume, you will need a cover letter to accompany your job application. It should be short and specific, highlighting your skills and experience in relation to the position you are applying for.

Your resume and cover letter is your first chance to convince an employer that you are the right person for the job.

Before you begin writing your resume, think about your work history and note your achievements and skills.

The layout of your resume should be neat, simple and easy to read. Aim for 1–3 pages, depending on how long you have been in the workforce. Employers often have to read multiple job applications so use headings and dot points to make your resume easy to read.

Employers will be looking for your:

• contact details
• career strengths
• employment history
• education and training achievements

Read more about how to write an effective resume .

If you need help with formatting, resume templates are provided with some word processors (e.g. Microsoft Word) and are available online.

Go online to find templates, cover letters, resume examples and advice about how to apply for jobs (e.g. myfuture ).

Cover letters

Your cover letter is an important component of your application and should:

• introduce you to the employer
• identify the position you are applying for
• convey your enthusiasm for the position
• highlight the stand-out qualities that make you a great candidate
• inspire the reader to continue reading your application (cover letters are not a summary of your resume).

You only need to write a 1 page cover letter and address it directly to the employer or contact person for the job.

All cover letters should be tailored to suit that particular job.

Learn more about writing good cover letters .

Selection criteria

Some jobs (especially government jobs) will ask you to meet particular requirements or selection criteria. Selection criteria may also be known as core or key capabilities.

Your responses should demonstrate, with relevant examples, that you have the required experience, skills and abilities to do the job. Be succinct and use dot points where appropriate.

Read more about how to write selection criteria .

Writing your application

When preparing your application, there are some key things we need to know about you. Focus on how your knowledge, skills, and abilities match those needed for the job. Applicants who are able to do this are more likely to progress through the application process.

Think about what you did in other jobs and your achievements. You can draw on your experiences from other contexts to show how you have relevant skills. These might be from:

• volunteer activities
• casual work
• university, TAFE or school if you have limited work experience.

This will help you to write a cover letter, update your resume and respond to targeted questions.

If the job ad requests a cover letter, you must submit one with your application to be considered for the role.

Writing a cover letter

Good cover letters use the STAR method to structure your work examples by explaining the Situation, Task, Action and Result. Your cover letter should:

• include any specific information requested in the job ad
• address the focus capabilities listed in the job ad, look through the Capability Framework for details on what these mean
• showcase your achievements in past jobs or from other contexts, for example volunteer work
• show us that you have most of the skills we are looking for
• tell us about your passions and interests
• explain why you want the job
• show us how your current skills are transferable to new situations
• show why you are a good fit for the agency and NSW Public Service.

If the job involves managing a team, tell us about important things you did before such as how you supported your team to deliver for the business.

A good cover letter:

• is brief (usually 1 to 2 pages)
• uses plain English
• is well structured
• is specific to the job you are applying for
• uses specific examples of what you’ve done and what you’ve achieved.

Writing a resume

Your resume (also known as curriculum vitae or CV) is a summary of your:

• qualifications

A resume needs to be up-to-date, clear, concise and well organised. It is best if you can tailor the content to the job you are applying for.

As a guide, your resume could include the following sections:

• Personal details – your name and contact details.
• Summary – a brief introduction about you, your work experience, training and interests.
• Education – qualifications and relevant training.
• employer / organisation / agency
• dates of employment
• your responsibilities
• your achievements.
• Other information such as skills, achievements, and relevant memberships.
• Referees – name, title and contact details.

Do not include copies of qualifications with your resume or application unless asked.

Answering targeted questions

Targeted questions are open-ended questions. They may ask you to:

• explain how you’ve shown your knowledge, skills, and abilities in a certain situation
• describe why you’re interested in working for the agency or in the NSW Public Service.

They are often designed to find out about your capabilities and if these suit the role. Capabilities are:

• transferable knowledge (theoretical or practical understanding of a subject)
• skills (developed through training, experience, or practice)
• abilities relevant to a job.

They come from the NSW Public Sector Capability Framework.

Responding to targeted questions on capabilities

A targeted question on capabilities asks you to describe how you used your knowledge, skills, and abilities in a certain situation.

To answer this type of question you should:

• Read the question to identify the information you need to give us, looking for key words.
• capability description explains what the capability covers
• behavioural indicators describe the behaviours or actions at different levels for each capability
• key accountabilities give a high-level summary of the outcomes the role is expected to deliver.
• Use the behavioural indicators to help you think of a relevant example of what you did in other jobs or contexts.
• Be specific – don’t tell us what you think you might do in the situation – tell us what you did.
• Use full sentences, check your spelling and grammar, and stay within the word limit.
• Remember communication skills are important for all jobs.

Use the STAR method to structure your work examples by explaining the Situation, Task, Action and Result.

Example: Responding to a targeted question about your capabilities

The following question is about the 'Commit to Customer Service' intermediate capability.

Give an example of a situation where you provided services that were customer-focused.

How to respond:

• Use the behavioural indicators to prompt you on customer service actions and responsibilities
• Where were you working?
• What was your job?
• Describe a customer problem you identified.
• Explain why it was a problem.
• Tell us what you did to resolve it. If you did something as part of a team, be specific about your role
• Tell us what happened because of what you did – describe the impact on the customer experience.

Responding to targeted questions about your interests

Sometimes targeted questions ask you about:

• your reasons for applying for a job
• why you want the job
• why you want to work in the agency
• why you want to work in the NSW Public Service.

These types of questions give you the chance to tell us about what drives and motivates you.

• Read the question and look for key words that will help you respond. These questions are often framed to get a personal response.
• Review the role description to help you think about what’s involved in the job.
• Think about what we are looking for in asking this question. Our merit principles put importance on fit for the role and agency. Not only on capabilities, knowledge and experience.
• Write your response with honesty and passion.
• Use full sentences, check your spelling and grammar and stay within the word limit.

Example: Responding to a targeted question about your interests

Tell us why you want to work for the NSW Public Service.

• Explain what attracted you to want to work for the NSW Government.
• Describe why the job stood out for you.
• Tell us why you suit the job.
• How does the job fit with my values and standards?
• Have I always wanted to work in this occupation or sector?
• Is this the next step in my career journey?
• Will the job help me to serve my community?
• Relate your passions and interests to what the job offers you.

Carolyn Smith

Just another WebsiteHabitat T.H.U.M.B.S. Service site

How to create a job winning government cover letter or EOI

May 1, 2017 by Carolyn Smith Leave a Comment

When addressing an EOI, or submitting a cover letter, you still need to address the selection criteria,but instead of answering them in a separate document, simply address the requirements (either directly or indirectly) within the resume and the 2-page cover letter.

Ensure that your resume incorporates all your skills, knowledge and experience relevant to the position, including incorporating ALL your tangible achievements that demonstrates your capacity to undertake the position (really emphasise your achievements).   You can even use relevant selection criteria methodology within your resume, such as using a STAR – (see example below):

Operations Manager

Woodside Energy (October 2013 – Present)

Instrumental in ensuring organisational compliance with Workplace Health & Safety (The situation and task)

• Designed policy and established training and induction program (action/activity)
• Delivered training across the organisation (action/activity)
• Company awarded Small Contractor Award for Workplace Health & Safety (Result/achievement)
• Lifted overall company performance, by 60% (Result/achievement)

**Don’t incorporate the wording situation and task, action/activity and result/achievement – I just included these for your benefit, so you can see how in practice how this selection criteria model can be utilised within your resume).

Indirectly address all the relevant selection criteria within your 2-page cover letter, by summarising your relevant experience and highlighting what you have achieved.   It is unnecessary to provide a separate heading for each selection criterion if you don’t have the space, but make sure you check that all the agency requirements have been addressed before sending in the application (including any desirables).

If you do have the space, you can prepare mini selection criteria responses. For example, if the selection criteria are broken into the headings, Achieves Results, Contributes to Strategic Direction, Communicates with Influence etc. you can use the heading, Achieves results and use a very brief example outlining a project, or task the demonstrates your suitability against the job.

Include (any) relevant training relating to position in either your cover letter or resume.

Example framework for a typical 2-page Government cover letter

In the opening incorporate, one or more of the following:

• An understanding of the agency
• Your enthusiasm and passion for the job
• How you can help solve their problems, make money or save money for them

Keep this very tight and short, as you want to save the space for addressing specific requirements.

The Corroboration :

This is where you show an intelligent understanding of the job and how you fill those needs.   Key strategies:

• Utilise and mirror the language used in the job advertisement.   If they require someone that is energetic, use the word energetic or a similar word to describe your soft skills.
• Outline your work history that is relevant to the position.
• Talk about your achievements and quantifiable successes, including using the STAR method.
• Use a checklist to ensure that you have addressed the bulk of the selection criteria listed in the job advertisement.

The close:   A confident finish that invites the reader to take further action.

For example:

Thank you for taking the time to review my application and I look forward to the opportunity to meeting with the selection panel.

If you need examples or more detailed instructions on how to prepare these EOI, 2-page cover letters, I have outlined this in my ebook, How to GET IN and GET PROMOTED in the Public Service Sector.

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NSW Government Cover Letter Example – 1-2 Page

by Nicole Wren | Feb 4, 2023 | Examples

As Australian selection criteria writers, we are experts in writing NSW Government cover letters . Below is a NSW Government cover letter example (and targeted question example), which will help you understand what is required in your own application. If you need further assistance, please get in touch for a  quote . 

This brief 1-2 page NSW government cover letter was written for the role of a Recruitment Officer, found on the I Work For NSW jobs website.

It utilises the STAR method to structure work examples by explaining the Situation, Task, Action and Result. ​It also addresses the focus capabilities listed in the job ad, and includes examples which highlight the values of the department. This role also included two targeted questions. There is a sample response for one of these below the cover letter example.

1-2 Page NSW Cover Letter Example

Dear Contact Name and Selection Team,

I am extremely excited to apply for the role of Recruitment Officer (Job Reference Number XXXX) with XXXX. I have worked in recruitment for five years now and this is an area I have become extremely passionate about. I have always been a ‘people person’ and enjoy building rapport with others, which is vital when securing quality candidates to meet organisational needs. I am also very excited to contribute to XXX, since this team delivers such vital healthcare to people within my local area.  I have a strong understanding of NSW Health Awards, agreements, and policies and I am confident in my ability to interpret and apply them in my role as a recruitment officer. For example, when I was working as a recruitment officer at ABC Company, I was tasked with ensuring that all new hires were in compliance with the latest award agreements. I reviewed the job descriptions and salaries of all potential hires to make sure they were in line with the relevant awards, and provided recommendations to my manager where necessary. I also kept up-to-date with any changes in the awards and made sure that the company’s policies were updated accordingly.

I have a track record of being able to quickly assess a situation and find a solution that benefits all parties involved. For instance, while working at DEF Company, I was faced with a situation where a preferred candidate had withdrawn from the recruitment process at the last minute. I took the initiative to reach out to other potential candidates and was able to find a suitable replacement in a timely manner, ensuring that the recruitment process remained on track.

Organising my own work and taking into account the impact on others is a priority for me. I am highly skilled at prioritising tasks, negotiating with stakeholders, and ensuring that I meet deadlines. For example, when I was at DEF Company, I was responsible for coordinating a large recruitment campaign. I developed a detailed project plan, including timelines and milestones, and worked closely with a team of recruiters to ensure that all aspects of the campaign were executed successfully. I also made sure to keep all stakeholders, including hiring managers and HR representatives, informed of our progress and addressed any issues that arose in a timely manner.

I am fully committed to providing high-level customer service and maintaining confidentiality and compliance with awards and policies. For example, while at ABC Company, I was responsible for managing the recruitment process for a high-profile role. I was responsible for developing job descriptions, advertisements, and other recruitment-related materials, and it was crucial that these materials were well-written and effectively communicated the key information to potential candidates. When developing job descriptions, I made sure to clearly and concisely outline the key responsibilities, requirements, and qualifications for each role. I also used language that was easy to understand and free from jargon, ensuring that all candidates, regardless of their background, would be able to understand the key information. I ensured that all applicants were treated fairly and with the utmost confidentiality, and that all recruitment activities were in line with the company’s policies and awards. I also provided regular updates to the hiring manager and HR representatives, and made sure that any questions or concerns were addressed in a timely manner.

I am confident in my ability to work both independently and as part of a team, and I am highly skilled at effectively communicating with internal and external stakeholders. For instance, while at ABC Company, I was part of a team of recruiters who were responsible for recruiting a large number of employees across multiple locations. I worked closely with my colleagues to share information, coordinate activities, and ensure that all aspects of the recruitment process were completed efficiently and effectively. I also communicated regularly with hiring managers and HR representatives to provide updates on our progress and address any questions or concerns they may have had.

I am confident that my skills, experience, and approach make me the ideal candidate for the role of recruitment officer.  Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss this role further at interview. 

Yours Sincerely,

Client Name

Targeted Question Example

 Q: How do you prioritise your work to keep up with a large workload?

 A:  Prioritising work is a key aspect of managing a large workload effectively. I use several strategies to prioritise my work and ensure that I meet deadlines. For example, when I was a recruitment coordinator at XYZ Company, I used the “SMART” method, where I would set Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound goals for each task. This helped me to break down large projects into smaller, manageable tasks and prioritise the most important tasks first. Another technique I used was to prioritise tasks based on their urgency and importance. I would regularly assess my workload and prioritise tasks based on factors such as deadlines, impact on other projects, and importance to the overall recruitment process. This helped me to prioritise tasks and ensure that I was focused on the most critical tasks at any given time. I regularly communicated with stakeholders and team members to understand their priorities and ensure that my own priorities aligned with their needs. For example, if a hiring manager had a urgent requirement for a role, I would prioritise that role and work closely with the hiring manager to ensure that the recruitment process was completed in a timely manner. I was proactive in seeking out support when needed, and was not afraid to delegate tasks to others when appropriate. For instance, if I was managing multiple recruitment campaigns and felt that I was becoming overwhelmed, I would reach out to my team members and delegate some of the tasks to them if appropriate, ensuring that the workload was shared and that all aspects of the recruitment process were completed effectively.

We hope this NSW Government cover letter example and targeted questions example has assisted you to understand what is required in your own application. If you need further assistance with your resume, cover letter or targeted questions, please get in touch for a  quote . ​

Nicole Wren

Senior Writer

Nicole is the principal resume writer at Resumes to Impress. Nicole loves writing and sharing her knowledge about all things job hunting and career guidance.

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How to Tailor Your Cover Letter to a Government Job

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How To Write A Cover Letter For A Government Job (With Examples)

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Find a Job You Really Want In

Wondering how to write an application letter for government employment that puts you ahead of other candidates? When you’re writing an application letter for the government (any branch), the pressure can feel extremely intense.

This article will explain how to write and tailor your cover letter for government positions. We’ll also provide a template and an example government job cover letter for you to use as a reference, and tips on how to add extra umph to your letter.

Key Takeaways

The most important first step in how to write application letter for a job of any kind is to research the job and organization you’re applying to.

Tailoring your cover letter to the government job you’re applying to will help improve your chances of getting to the second round of application reviews.

You should describe your qualifications as well as your passion for the position in your cover letter.

Application letter for government employment: how to

Cover letter for government job example, why it’s important to tailor your cover letter for government jobs, tips for writing a cover letter for a government job, government job cover letter faq.

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Consider the following guidelines when tailoring your cover letter for a government position:

Firstly, research the agency. Every government agency has a different set of mission values and current programs.

Aligning your mindset and goals with those of the agency in your cover letter will improve your chances of receiving an interview .

Refrain from targeting your cover letter towards any particular agency program unless the job listing specifies that’s what you’ll be working on.

Secondly, understand the entire job listing before applying. Missing even a single job requirement when applying for a government position can be disastrous.

Third off, be specific. Rather than vaguely describing your experience , make sure to use numbers and statistics to explain your achievements’ exact results.

Lastly, Be brief. Just as is the case in the private sector, hiring managers will spend very little time reading over your government job cover letter.

Use succinct wording and make sure only to include highly relevant experiences, or you’ll risk the recruiter skimming over key information.

If an individual referred you, either mention them briefly or attach an entirely separate reference letter .

What to include in your government job cover letter

Your cover letter should be composed of the following sections:

First, Header. You should start your cover letter for government job formally, with your contact information, the recipient’s information, and the current date.

Your information should include your name, contact number, and email address.

Second, Introduction. Make sure to address the hiring manager with their appropriate title.

If you’re unable to find the hiring manager’s name , then use a generic professional greeting such as “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear Sir or Madam.”

Professional experience. Give a brief overview of your qualifications, skills , and experiences as a professional.

Ensure that every item you mention directly addresses the essential requirements and duties stated in the job listing.

Finally, conclusion. Thank the reader of your government cover letter for their time and consideration and reiterate your interest in the position. Express your interest in a way that invites follow-up action on the part of the recruiter.

A government job cover letter example ending may look like the following,

“I would love to discuss with you further how my lengthy experience and abilities could add value to the projects your agency is working on, such as the “Housing For All Initiative.”

To help you see what your cover letter should look like, we’ve included a template and example letter for you to refer to.

Cover letter template for government jobs

Refrain from simply substituting your details directly into the following template.

Instead, observe how the cover letter is structured and incorporates critical elements. Use this knowledge to draft your own document.

[Your full name] [Your phone number] [Your email address] [Current date] [Hiring manager’s full name] [Hiring manager’s mailing address ] Dear [Hiring manager’s full name], I am writing to convey my interest in the [target position] in the [target government agency]. [Align your personal values/objectives to those of the agency.] I believe my [number of years] of experience as a [relevant position] has given me the [key skills] to further your agency’s goal to [agency goal that you strongly relate to]. I have developed a well-rounded skill set through on-the-job experience that matches many of the key qualifications you are looking for, including: [Key qualification from job listing #1] [Key qualification from job listing #2] [Key qualification from job listing #3] [Previous professional experience that proves you meet qualification #1] [Previous professional experience that proves you meet qualification #2] [Previous professional experience that proves you meet qualification #3] I appreciate the time you have taken to read about my professional background. I look forward to further discussing with you how my extensive experience could greatly contribute to programs your agency is working on, such as [example of agency’s programs]. [sign off]

Cover letter for municipality job example

Caleb Smith 888 555 9252 [email protected] March 19, 2020 David Helm U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development 451 7th Street. SW Washington , DC 20410 Dear David Helm, I am writing to convey my interest in the program analyst position in the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Amidst the economic havoc caused by the coronavirus, I feel compelled to use my expertise to aid those struggling to find shelter. I believe my 12 years of experience as a program analyst has given me the management and technical expertise to further your agency’s goal to improve the quality of housing available to Americans. I have developed a well-rounded skill set through on-the-job experience that matches many of the key qualifications you are looking for, including: Management analysis Team leadership Regulatory compliance During my time as a senior program analyst at TechX, I designed, developed, and supported live-use applications that were utilized by over 80,000 people. I also spearheaded management analyses that identified and performed process enhancements that improved operational efficiency by up to 23%. At TechX, I also oversaw multiple teams composed of members from completely different departments and backgrounds. I used my interpersonal and problem-solving skills to maintain team cohesion, which led us to exceed all project deadlines and expectations given to us over a five-year period. I also developed programs for multiple organizations to analyze their operational procedures for regulatory compliance and generate monthly reports. In one case, I saved the company $124,000 in legal fees through early detection of non-compliant business processes. I averaged an increase in policy compliance by 35%. I appreciate the time you have taken to read about my professional background. I look forward to further discussing with you how my experience could greatly contribute to the programs your agency is working on, such as the “Housing For All Initiative.” Sincerely, Caleb Smith

It’s essential to tweak your cover letter before applying to a government job for a few key reasons:

Stringent minimum requirements. The requirements stated in job listings for private-sector jobs aren’t always absolute.

Recruiters are given the discretion to hire impressive candidates who can compensate for any requirements they miss.

Government jobs differ in this respect, as many criteria are set in stone. You need to emphasize that you meet these base requirements in your cover letter to ensure that your application isn’t automatically dismissed.

KSA keywords. When applying to a government job, applicant tracking software (ATS) will parse your application for the presence of certain knowledge, ability, and skill (KSA) keywords.

Importance of eligibility. Rules and algorithms tightly govern the hiring process for government positions.

Competition. Cover letters aren’t always required for government jobs. However, there are likely many candidates possessing similar qualifications or even internal references .

Not only does a cover letter allow you to expand on your qualifications and cite experiences to support them, but it also gives you a chance to align your values with those of the agency.

This personalized touch helps you stand out from the crowd .

Here are a few tips for making your cover letter really shine:

Show your enthusiasm. Hiring managers don’t just want to see how you’re qualified for the job, they want to see your passion for the position and company as well.

Match your cover letter and resume headers. This shows readers that your documents go together when they’re in a big stack of applications. It also looks professional and polished.

Include a call to action. Close your letter by explaining what you want to happen after the hiring manager reads your cover letter. This could be requesting to discuss the position further, offering to tell them more about your qualifications, or simply inviting them to contact you for more information.

Thank the reader. Add a sentence to your closing paragraph thanking the reader for their time. This ends the letter on a positive note and furthers the good rapport you’re building.

Proofread, proofread, proofread. Never submit a cover letter without checking it over for grammatical errors. If you can, have someone else look over your letter for typos or confusing sentences, but at the least, you should read it out loud to yourself and run it through a grammar check on your computer.

Why is a cover letter important when applying for a government job?

A cover letter for a government job serves as an introduction to your application, allowing you to highlight your qualifications, skills, and experiences that make you a suitable candidate. It offers a personalized touch, demonstrating your genuine interest in the role and organization, which can set you apart from other applicants.

What should I include in my cover letter for a government job?

As we’ve discussed, your cover letter should start with a professional header containing your contact details and the recipient’s information. Begin with a salutation, followed by an engaging opening paragraph that introduces yourself and the specific job you’re applying for.

Highlight your relevant qualifications, experience, and accomplishments in the body of the letter. Make sure to address the key selection criteria mentioned in the job posting. Conclude with a strong closing paragraph expressing your enthusiasm for the position and your readiness for an interview.

Should I use a formal tone in my government job cover letter?

Yes, a formal and professional tone is essential for a government job cover letter. Avoid using slang, contractions, or overly casual language. Your writing should be clear, concise, and focused on showcasing your skills and qualifications. Use proper salutations and follow standard business letter formatting. This demonstrates your respect for the application process and your potential future employer.

Remember, a well-crafted cover letter can greatly enhance your chances of landing a government job interview. Take the time to research, tailor your content, and present yourself in a compelling and professional manner.

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Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.

Matt Warzel a President of a resume writing firm (MJW Careers, LLC) with 15+ years of recruitment, outplacement, career coaching and resume writing experience. Matt is also a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and Certified Internet Recruiter (CIR) with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Marketing Focus) from John Carroll University.

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How to write a cover letter in Australia: Your guide to standing out

January 02, 2023

A cover letter is the megaphone your job application needs to stand out and intrigue hiring managers… but what if your hand is shaky on the on-switch? Find out how to write a great cover letter, even if you’re not confident with words. 

When it comes to job hunting, there are two things that will never go out of fashion—the all-powerful resume, and its best buddy, the cover letter. Sure, your resume will change over time, and the final product will vary from a one-pager to a complete breakdown of your work history depending on your industry, but the letter portion generally stays the same (with some caveats for government, legal, STEM and finance roles). 

That said, hitting the right tone with your cover letter can be tricky. Too confident, and you’ll come across as braggy with no substance; too factual, and the reader may lose interest. Luckily, there’s a tried and tested approach for treading this line. 

What is the purpose of a cover letter?  

Before we dive into the how-to, let’s look at the purpose behind this one-page statement. A cover letter is there to help time-poor managers assess your application because it highlights the skills and accomplishments you feel are most relevant to the job. Think of it as a summary of your resume. 

While templates are easy (and tempting), generic cover letters can damage your chances of getting to the next stage. You risk rubbing your reader the wrong way with stock-like responses, a lack of research and vague statements in the place of demonstrated understanding. While you want to talk about the nitty gritty of the role and your career highlights, a cover letter is also the place to let your personality shine. You should bring yourself to the table and show the hiring manager how you align with their business from day zero. 

Do you need a cover letter? 

Yes. Submitting your application without one is a little like writing an assignment without including a list of references. You need to include a cover letter to show potential employers you have the initiative, dedication and attitude they want in their business. Even if tailoring your application takes a little longer than pressing send, it’s well worth it. Put yourself in the reader's position; would you interview the person who took the time to learn about the role, or the contender who attached their resume without so much as a hello, this is who I am and what I bring to the table? 

Mastering Australian cover letters

So how do you become a whiz at writing cover letters, and what are the steps that can make the process easier? If you take nothing else from this piece, remember this—preparation is key. If you’ve researched the role and identified your most relevant skills and achievements, writing a cover letter will be much easier.

Before you begin

Research the role.

By researching what you’ll be doing and getting a bit of background on the company, you’ll be able to learn more about the role and will find it easier to write the cover letter with this in mind. Look for recent articles on the company and its founders, and have a read of their website to get a feel for what they do. Make sure you understand the criteria that they’ve listed.

Brainstorm real-world examples

The worst thing you can be in a cover letter is generic. Comments like “I have great people skills” don’t really say anything. Once you know what the business is looking for, start thinking about real-world problems you’ve solved that meet the job ad’s criteria. Brainstorm things like:  How did you impact the company? Are there key performance stats that prove you made positive changes? Have these examples ready.

Gather contact details

If you can, find out the hiring manager’s name. LinkedIn or the company’s website can be great for this, so do a little digging. If all else fails, call the company and ask. It shows initiative.

Create a cover letter people care about in 5 steps

So you’ve got your background information and you’re armed with great examples of your achievements. Now’s the time to write a stand out cover letter.

1. Write a targeted introduction

Talk about what drew you to the role in the first place. Was it the culture? The company’s charitable work? Their reputation as industry leaders? Make sure you also say why that’s important to you—shared values are a great way to show company alignment. And remember, engagement is key, so you should be more conversational than you would be in a resume.

2. Explore your history and connect it with the role

How have you gotten here? Was it a straight path, or  did you start your career in another direction before finding your way to this industry?   If you’re changing industries, what have you done to learn about this one, and what prompted the change? Include some very brief context around this. 

3. Address the recruitment criteria in detail

It’s unlikely that you’ll tick every box in the job ad, but talk about what you’ve done in your previous roles and how your experience mirrors the job criteria. Be specific and use examples where you can. You can also mention any relevant qualifications you have if they’ve asked for them.

4. Refine your elevator pitch

You want to wind down with a quick overview. Remind the recruiter why you’re applying for this role, where you’ve come from, and why you’d like to take this path next.

5. Make a closing statement

Thank them for their time in reading your application, and let them know that you look forward to hearing from them soon. Tell them how and where you can be contacted so they don’t have to go digging through your resume for the details. 

Before you hit send

There’s no point writing a great cover letter if you  fall on the final hurdle. Here are some last steps you shouldn’t skip.

Proofread, leave it a day, then proofread again

This is your only chance to make a good first impression. It’s so easy to miss a typo when you submit your cover letter straight after writing it, but this looks sloppy. Give yourself the distance to spot those little errors.  

Ask someone you trust in the same industry to read it for you

This’ll give you insight into anything you’ve misunderstood, or areas you can focus more on. You could also learn valuable titbits about the industry that you may be able to weave into your cover letter.

Double-check the details 

There’s nothing worse than hitting ‘send’ only to realise you’ve called the hiring manager Mary when it’s actually Maree, so make sure you’ve got it right. It’s also good to check that all your contact details are correct.

Take a moment to breathe and visualise 

You’re almost there, and you’re doing great. Take a moment to visualise how fantastic it’ll be if you score an interview.

Organise your resume 

Make sure your resume is up to date and in the required format, with all the relevant skills clearly organised.

Send it away! 

Attach it to a brief email or onto the company’s application portal and you’re done!

Congratulations! You’ve just sent off your application. Pat yourself on the back for writing a clear, concise, targeted cover letter that shows how perfect you are for the role. Good luck.

Read next: How to make an impression at your job interview

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Best Cover Letter Example Template for Australia

The Best Cover Letter examples in Australia in 2022 will prompt a prospective employer to read your Resume. They do this by demonstrating how your skills and experience align with those sought after by the employer.

By briefly outlining how you can add value to their business, the hiring manager will see that you are someone worth investigating further.

Oftentimes, however, an application will be dismissed before the Resume is even read, as a result of mistakes in the Cover Letter.

Cover Letters play a massive role in whether you get called in for an interview or not. According to a survey conducted by ResumeLab, 83% of recruiters believe that Cover Letters are important in making hiring decisions, and can even convince recruiters to schedule an interview with an applicant despite a poor Resume.

While writing your Cover Letter, you may not be realising that you are making mistakes that are severely impacting your chances at securing the job. Our experts have analysed 100+ Cover Letter examples to highlight the most common mistakes to avoid.

It’s good to get into the habit of understanding these mistakes now before you jeopardise your chances of securing employment any further!

Here are the most important Cover Letter mistakes to avoid:

Best Cover Letter Examples: Avoid Typographical Errors

Page Contents

Most hiring companies in Australia are looking for people with outstanding communication skills.

Communication skills are one of the most important soft skills to have when looking for a job. Demonstrating high-quality communication skills helps to build trust, boost teamwork and furthers your professional relationships.

This will usually include written skills, as well as, verbal communication skills. Your Cover Letter is your first opportunity to show your prospective employer that you have the necessary language capabilities.

Typographical and grammatical errors will often see your application rejected immediately.

Here are some tips:

• Make sure to use a spellchecker after drafting your Cover Letter . This is an easy step that you shouldn’t overlook! If your Cover Letter contains any spelling errors or typos, this immediately sends the message that the rest of your application is weak too.
• Re-read it to make sure the content is grammatically and contextually correct. Present yourself in a strong and accurate way!
• Ask someone else to read through it as well. Sometimes we can miss some obvious mistakes as we have read the content a number of times and are ‘too close to it’. Having someone else read your Cover Letter to check for any mistakes is always a fantastic idea!

Best Cover Letters in Australia: Avoid using a standard or generic Cover Letter

You need to tailor your Cover Letter to the position you are applying for, and the best Cover Letter examples in Australia have shown that.

One of the quickest ways to have your application overlooked is to send out a generic Cover Letter which does not address the specific key selection criteria or skill set required.

Things to include in a tailored Cover Letter in Australia are:

• Your contact information like email address, mobile number and LinkedIn Profile
• The position you are applying for
• The skills and experience you have which qualify you as being suitable for this specific job
• An example of how you applied as many of those skills in a previous role – this should directly tie in with one of the key selection criteria listed in the job advertisement
• The name of the organisation you are applying to; the name of the hiring manager and change the date of your Cover Letter if you are using a template from a previous application

Best Cover Letters Template Tips: Don’t write too much!

Your Cover Letter should be concise, encouraging the hiring manager to want to learn more about you by reading your Resume, and, ultimately, inviting you to an interview.

By rambling on too much and including unnecessary information, you risk alienating yourself and having your application dismissed. Recruiters love simple, short and concise Cover Letters. Get to the point!

Keep your Cover Letter to one page, highlighting your most relevant achievements and skills, always ensuring they match the key selection criteria stated in the position description.

Best Cover Letters in Australia: Avoid buzzwords

Using Buzzwords or clichés in your Cover Letter shows a lack of imagination and effort. You don’t want to give off the impression to recruiters of being unoriginal or lazy, do you?

Simply recycling those qualities listed in a job ad word-for-word and attributing them to yourself won’t do you much good. Without giving concrete examples of how they apply to you will see your application immediately brushed aside. Examples of such buzz words include: “team player”, “good communication skills”, “hard worker”, and “detail-oriented”.

Don’t just tell them you’re a hard worker, show them! Back-up your statements. You can do this by detailing specific tasks and outcomes you were responsible for, and successful at, while in your previous role(s).

Your Cover Letter and Resume may promise a certain level of personality or value, which is what will get you an interview, but once you’re face-to-face with a recruiter, that level of value will need to be made evident.

Best Cover Letters: Include appropriate personal details

Personal details such as your age, hobbies, and marital status should not be included in your Cover Letter .

Not only are they usually irrelevant to the job you are applying for, but they could also give the person reading your Cover Letter an excuse to dismiss your application without having read your Resume.

An employer wants to see how your previous work experience relates to the position on offer.  So, unless your outside interests are pertinent to the role, it’s best to not include them in your Cover Letter.

Best Cover Letters: Don’t exaggerate or lie about skills or experience

Sometimes job seekers are tempted to exaggerate their skills or experience to improve their chances of obtaining an interview. This is a big mistake.

Whether the prospective employer asks you about it during an interview or calls your previous employer to ask them, you will nearly always be found out.

It is much better to really think about how your actual experience relates to the qualities and key selection criteria being sought after. Once you have found qualitative and quantitative examples of this experience, aim to express this honestly and in your own words.

Even if you don’t have enough experience required for the job you’re applying for, you can overcome this by selling yourself in other ways.

A Cover Letter that highlights your achievements and includes similar projects or relatable experience can work in your favour. This will provide evidence of your value in terms of accomplishments which is what recruiters want to know about.

Also, if you’re qualified in any way, you can sell this in a Cover Letter or in the interview to convince recruiters of your value, regardless of any gaps in your experience, skill set or job history.

Download our Cover Letter Example Template For 2022 

To conclude, a good Cover Letter is a pivotal factor in the job application and job interview process. A Cover Letter should be well-written and engaging, and should convince the hiring manager that you are the best candidate.

A Cover Letter is a brief introduction of a job applicant that captures the employer’s attention and conveys competence, professionalism, and enthusiasm. The Cover Letter should provide some basic facts about the applicant such as their current position, career goals, and key skills.

To help you develop the perfect Cover Letter, download our free Cover Letter Template today to get started! Our Cover Letter template includes tips and advice from top Australian recruiters which will help you catch the recruiter’s attention – so you land a job in 2022.

The template can be customised to apply for jobs in all industries including Information Technology, Engineering, Business, Finance, and Accounting.

If you would like one-to-one support to create a high-quality and impactful Cover Letter to get more job interviews and jobs in Australia, please feel free to get in touch.

We wish you all the best in your job search! Careers Team, Career Success Australia

Our Career Counsellors have helped more than 3000+ Job seekers to get their Dream Job in Australia.

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Hello, It’s been a real challange finding job(s) that DON’T require vaccinations. How does one succeed in getting THAT job where this isn’t a requirement?

While the initial advertisment for a job doesn’t mention the need for a double vaccantion, it isn’t until the end or indeed, when one is called for a interview, that the question arises.

What can I, as one that has been stood down from a 15 year job, do to succeed in getting a job? And one where the mandate hasn’t been implemented or has been rescinded. It just seems so prejudicial.

Many thanks, Armand Haine

Hi Armand, yes, we have heard of many cases where the person hasn’t been able to have the vaccination due to medical reasons. At some point in time the vaccination certificate requirement that some companies ask for will phase out. What you can do Armand is increase the number of job interviews you attend. The more interviews you get, the more offers you will get which means you may find an employer that does not require the vaccination certificate. Also, it depends which industry you are trying to get into. Some industries require it, others, not so much. Feel free to contact us if you would like to discuss your case in detail. Best wishes, Career Success Australia

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