ATS Resume Guide for Australia
How to Pass Applicant Tracking Systems in 2026
Applicant tracking systems (ATS) filter most resumes before a recruiter ever sees them. This guide explains how ATS works in Australia, what formatting and keywords pass automated scans, and how to present your career story for real hiring managers.
What is an ATS?
An ATS is software used by Australian employers to collect, rank, and screen resumes. It scans for keywords, job titles, and skills that match the role, then flags the strongest matches for human review.
- ATS scans are keyword-based, not design-based.
- Formatting issues can hide content from the parser.
- Humans still decide, but only after ATS filters the pool.
How Australian ATS filters resumes
Australian recruitment teams often combine ATS filters with hiring manager screening. That means you need clean structure, clear section labels, and localised language that matches Australian job ads.
- Use Australian spelling (organisation, optimise, programme).
- Mirror job titles from the ad to avoid mismatch.
- Keep dates consistent and easy to scan (Month YYYY).
Australia-specific ATS formatting rules
- One clear column layout (no tables or text boxes).
- Standard headings: Summary, Experience, Education, Skills.
- Include location and visa status only if relevant.
- PDF or DOCX format, never image-based resumes.
Keyword strategy that works in 2026
- Build a skills bank from 3-5 Australian job ads.
- Repeat critical keywords naturally in each role.
- Use both acronyms and full terms (e.g., WHS, Workplace Health and Safety).
Resume examples, templates, and services
Use these resources to translate the guide into a resume that passes ATS scans and earns interviews in Australia.
Resume examples
Review real Australian resume advice, structures, and examples from our blog.
Explore resume adviceATS-friendly templates
Download editable Australian resume templates designed for applicant tracking systems.
View templatesATS resume services
Work with expert Australian resume writers for ATS-optimised resumes and cover letters.
See resume servicesATS Resume FAQs (Australia)
Do Australian employers use ATS for all roles?
Most medium to large employers do. Government, healthcare, education, and corporate roles commonly use ATS platforms, while smaller businesses may still use manual screening.
Is a PDF or Word resume better for ATS?
Both can work if the layout is clean. DOCX is often safest because older ATS systems parse Word files more reliably than PDFs.
Should I include a photo on an Australian resume?
No. Photos are not standard practice in Australia and can introduce bias. Focus on achievements and measurable outcomes instead.
How long should an ATS resume be in Australia?
Two pages is typical for Australian professionals. Senior leaders can extend to three pages if the content is highly relevant and achievement focused.
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