Cover Letter Template Australia: Free Download and 3 Examples
An Australian cover letter is one page, four short paragraphs. Paragraph one names the job and your best qualification. Paragraph two gives evidence that matches the ad. Paragraph three says why this employer and when you can start. Paragraph four closes with your contact details. Download the template, then use one of the examples below as a starting point.
⬇ Download the free Australian cover letter template (Word, .docx). It opens in Word, Google Docs or Pages. Delete the [bracketed] guidance before you send it.
How to write a cover letter in four paragraphs
| Paragraph | Job | Length |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Opening | The role, where you saw it, and the one reason you fit | 2 sentences |
| 2. Evidence | One or two achievements that match the ad's top requirements | 2–4 sentences |
| 3. Fit and availability | Why this employer; notice period; roster or hours you can work | 2 sentences |
| 4. Close | Thank them, invite contact, give your phone and email | 1–2 sentences |
Cover letter example 1: entry-level retail or hospitality
"Dear Hiring Manager,
I'm applying for the casual team member role at your Joondalup store, advertised on Jobs In Perth. I'm a reliable first-year university student with RSA certification and weekend and public holiday availability.
Over the past year I volunteered at the Joondalup Festival food tent, serving up to 200 customers an hour and handling cash and EFTPOS. Your ad asks for someone calm in busy periods, and that's where I'm at my best.
I can start immediately and work Friday nights, weekends and the Christmas period.
Thank you for your time. I'm on 04XX XXX XXX if you'd like to arrange a trial shift."
Cover letter example 2: trade or FIFO role
"Dear Ms Nguyen,
I'm applying for the FIFO heavy duty diesel fitter position (ref 4821). I'm a qualified HD fitter with five years of experience maintaining CAT 793 haul trucks on an 8/6 roster in the Pilbara.
At my current site I reduced repeat breakdowns on our fleet by 22% over 12 months by introducing a component tracking sheet. I hold a current HR licence, a Construction Induction card and Working at Heights and Confined Space tickets, and I'm medically fit for site work.
I'm drawn to your operation's maintenance-led culture and the 2/1 roster on offer, and I can start after four weeks' notice.
Thank you for considering my application. I'm available on 04XX XXX XXX or name@email.com."
Cover letter example 3: office or administration
"Dear Hiring Manager,
I'm applying for the Accounts Administrator role at your Osborne Park office. I bring three years of accounts payable experience in Xero and a Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping.
In my current role I process around 300 supplier invoices a month and cleared a three-month backlog within my first six weeks. Your ad mentions month-end reconciliations, which I complete independently each month.
I'd value working for a growing local business, and I can start with two weeks' notice.
Thank you for your consideration. I'd welcome a conversation about the role."
Cover letter mistakes Australian employers notice
- Repeating your resume. Pick one or two results and explain why they matter for this job.
- The wrong company name. Re-read the letter for the previous employer's name before every send.
- Going over one page. Shorter letters get read.
- No availability. For casual, roster and FIFO jobs, availability is often the deciding factor.
Do I need a cover letter for every job?
Send one whenever the application allows it, unless the ad says not to. For government jobs in WA, the "cover letter" is often replaced by a statement addressing the selection criteria. Follow the ad's instructions exactly.
Next: update your resume with our free Australian resume template, practise common interview questions, and browse jobs in Perth.