Download our APS-ready résumé template and follow the section-by-section guide to sail past eRecruit filters and land your next government role.
Why public sector résumés differ from private sector
APS recruiters use sophisticated Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) for initial keyword scanning and shortlisting. Unlike private sector resumes that might prioritise creativity, a crisp, well-structured 2-3 page PDF that directly addresses the job description and selection criteria will always outperform a glossy, lengthy CV with complex formatting. Understanding these differences is key to successful application.
Public-sector resume template tour & section walk-through
Section Walk-Through
- ATS Parse Rate
Common mistakes to avoid in your APS resume
Many strong candidates undermine their applications with avoidable resume errors. Be aware of these common pitfalls that can lead to automatic disqualification by ATS or disinterest from human reviewers:
- Using Word tables for formatting—these frequently break ATS parsing and render your content unreadable.
- Including fancy icons, graphics, or elaborate designs that confuse screen readers and ATS.
- Listing every job since high school—focus on the last 10-15 years of relevant experience.
- Generic content that doesn't directly address the specific requirements of the APS role you're applying for.
- Not quantifying achievements (e.g., instead of 'managed projects', say 'managed 5 projects, delivering on average 15% under budget').
- Recruiter Engagement
Bonus cover-letter snippet & strategic tips
Your cover letter is an extension of your resume, not a repetition. Use it to elaborate on key achievements and demonstrate your understanding of the agency's values and the role's strategic importance. Copy and adapt this opening paragraph for impact: "I am excited to apply for the APS6 Policy Officer role within [Department Name], drawing on 5 years delivering evidence-based advice at state level and a proven track record in stakeholder engagement."
Beyond this opening, consider dedicating a paragraph to how your skills align with the department's current strategic priorities or recent initiatives. Researching the agency's annual reports, media releases, and departmental plans can provide valuable context to tailor your letter and show genuine interest and understanding of their mission. Conclude with a strong call to action, reiterating your enthusiasm for the specific role and your readiness to contribute.
FAQ: Public Service Resume
How long should an APS resume be?
For most APS roles, a concise 2-3 page resume is ideal. Recruiters and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) prefer brevity and relevance, focusing on your most impactful experiences and how they align with the job requirements.
Should I include a photo on my APS resume?
No, it is generally not recommended to include a photo on an Australian public service resume. APS recruitment prioritises merit-based selection, and photos can introduce unconscious bias. Focus on your skills and experience.
Is it okay to use tables or complex formatting in an APS resume?
Avoid complex formatting, including tables, excessive graphics, or fancy icons. These can often break ATS parsing, making your resume unreadable to the system and potentially leading to rejection before human review.
How important are keywords in an APS resume?
Keywords are critically important. APS agencies use ATS to scan resumes for specific terms from the job description and selection criteria. Incorporate these keywords naturally throughout your resume to ensure it passes initial screening.
Download the DOCX template and pair with our selection-criteria cheat sheet.