Writing your cover letter for a government job requires a different approach than writing your cover letter for a job in the private sector. While it may state ‘cover letter’, it is usually actually asking for a selection criteria response. How you approach it will depend on which level of government you are applying for, since the requirements for APS, State and local roles differ between each other. Our detailed cover letter for government jobs examples – tailored for APS, (all) state and local positions – will help you understand what is required.
APS Cover Letters
The APS has specific guidelines and criteria for job applications. They may refer to their written application as a ‘pitch’ or ‘statement’. They will specify the length requirements in the application guidelines, but these are often 500 words, 600 words, 800 words, 1000 words or even more.
Our comprehensive APS Application Guide provides a step-by-step method to writing these (and other APS applications):
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2025 APS Application Guide (With Full Written Examples!)$29.00 includes GST
Includes:
- Fully editable templates for all common APS short-form application types (e.g. pitch, statement of claims etc.)
- Editable APS resume template
- Full written examples for APS applications at different stages of career (APS2, APS3, APS4, APS5, APS6, EL1, EL2)
- 8-step process to write any APS application
- Keyword/ phrase lists for the Integrated Leadership System (ILS) and Work Level Standards (WLS) for each level
Cover Letter Differences by State
Did you know that each State and Territory government has its own specific cover letter for government job requirements? As such, it’s essential to thoroughly read the job advertisement and address any selection criteria outlined.
Queensland Government Cover Letters
You can find Queensland Government jobs via the Smartjobs website.
As well as your resume, you’re also required to a 1-2 page cover letter or ‘statement’ that addresses “how your experience, abilities, education, skills and personal qualities relate to the requirements of the role, taking into account key responsibilities and attributes”.
Read a full Queensland cover letter for government job example.
New South Wales Government Cover Letters
Find NSW Government jobs via the I Work for NSW website.
In addition to your resume, you’re required to submit a one to two-page cover letter or a short statement against 1-2 targeted questions. You’ll need to refer to the behavioural indicators relating to the capability level in the NSW public sector.
Read a full NSW cover letter for government job example.
Australian Capital Territory Cover Letters
You can find ACT Government jobs via this website.
In addition to your resume, you’re also asked to complete a response to the selection criteria. There will be either a page or word limit.
Along with your resume, you’ll need to respond to the selection criteria. This may have a specific word length or page length. You may also be asked for a standard ‘selection criteria’ response, where you’ll use each criterion as a heading and address each one, using the STAR format, in your response.
Read an ACT cover letter for government job example.
Victorian Government Cover Letters
Find Vic Government jobs here.
In addition to your resume, you’re required to submit a key selection criteria (KSC) document. You’ll need to write short statements (usually 60-120 words), addressing each criterion.
Read a Victorian cover letter for government job example.
Western Australian Government Cover Letters
You can find WA Government jobs here.
Each WA Department has its own application requirements and procedures, so you will need to check the application guidelines for each job carefully.
Read a WA cover letter for government job example.
South Australian Government Cover Letters
Find SA government jobs via the I Work For SA website.
In addition to your resume, you’re required to submit a cover letter or response to the selection criteria.
Read a SA cover letter for government job example.
Tasmanian Government Cover Letters
Find Tasmanian government jobs here.
In addition to your resume, you’re required to submit a cover letter application addressing the selection criteria or traditional selection criteria response.
Read a Tasmanian cover letter for government job example.
Northern Territory Government Cover Letters
You can find NT Government jobs here.
In addition to your resume, you’re required to submit a one-page statement. While you should take the selection criteria into account in your response, not each one needs to be addressed individually.
Read a NT cover letter for government job example.
Local Government Cover Letters
Each local government organisation will have its own application requirements. Usually, you will need to address specific selection criteria in the context of the job requirements.
Read a cover letter for local council job example.
Crafting a winning cover letter for government jobs requires careful attention to detail and a tailored approach. By following the examples and tips provided here (and reading the application guidelines very carefully!), you can develop your own effective government cover letter.
Contact us if you have further questions.
