How to Write a Nursing Cover Letter Australia (+ Examples)

Last Updated, 26 October 2024
Written by <a href="https://www.resumestoimpress.com.au/career-resources/author/nic/" target="_self">Nicole Wren</a>

Written by Nicole Wren

nursing cover letter australia

How to Write a Nursing Cover Letter Australia (+ Examples)

by | Oct 26, 2024 | Cover Letters, Examples

A well-written cover letter is essential when applying for nursing jobs in Australia. Whether you’re applying for a role in the public or private sector, your cover letter is your first opportunity to impress potential employers and demonstrate why you’re the ideal candidate. Below, we outline how to write an effective nursing cover letter in Australia, for both government and private sector roles.

Why is a Cover Letter for Nursing Jobs Required?

A nursing cover letter in Australia is a formal document that accompanies your resume when applying for a nursing position. It introduces you to the employer, outlines your qualifications, and explains why you are a great fit for the job. While your resume lists your experience and skills, the cover letter allows you to highlight specific examples that align with the role you’re applying for.

Government Nursing Roles vs. Private Sector Roles

When writing a nursing cover letter in Australia, it’s important to understand the key differences between public and private sector roles. In the government sector, nursing positions often require candidates to address nursing selection criteria.

In most government nursing roles, you’ll need to respond to specific selection criteria using the STAR format (Situation, Task, Action, and Result). For example, if the selection criteria ask for “teamwork and communication,” you would describe a specific situation where you successfully worked as part of a team, the task at hand, the actions you took to communicate effectively, and the positive outcome. Read more nursing selection criteria examples.

In contrast, private sector nursing jobs may not require responses to selection criteria. Instead, a concise nursing cover letter for Australia focused on your experience and key skills is usually sufficient.

Each state in Australia has slightly different requirements for nursing cover letters, particularly for government roles, for example, Queensland Health usually asks for a 1-2 page response addressing the key attributes of the role. This Queensland Health cover letter for nursing jobs in Australia template provides details on what is required.

Queensland Health resume template

Key Elements of a Nursing Cover Letter

When writing your nursing cover letter, ensure you include the following sections:

  1. Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself and mention the role you’re applying for.
  2. Relevant Experience: Highlight your experience in nursing, particularly how it relates to the job at hand.
  3. Key Skills: Emphasise your nursing skills, such as patient care, teamwork, and communication.
  4. Alignment with Role: Explain why you are a great fit for the job, referencing specific aspects of the position or organisation.
  5. Closing Statement: End by expressing your interest in the role and willingness to discuss your application further.

Example of a Nursing Cover Letter (Private Sector)

Here’s an example of how to structure your cover letter for a nursing job in Australia (for the private sector):

Jane Doe, Registered Nurse
123 Health Street, Brisbane, QLD 4000
jane.doe@example.com
(07) 1234 5678

[Date]

Hiring Manager
Queensland Health
Brisbane, QLD 4000

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the Registered Nurse position at ABC Hospital, as advertised. With over five years of experience in acute care and a deep commitment to patient wellbeing, I believe I am well-suited to contribute to your team. My background in nursing, combined with my dedication to continuous learning and collaboration, makes me an ideal candiate for this role.

Throughout my career, I have developed a comprehensive skill set in patient care, wound management, and infection control, which I am confident will enable me to excel in this role. My ability to work under pressure and provide exceptional care to patients is demonstrated by my experience in [specific setting], where I contributed to [specific achievement].

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my skills and experience to ABC Hospital and would welcome the chance to discuss how I can contribute to your team.

Kind regards,
Jane Doe

Examples of a Government Nursing Cover Letter

This Queensland Health cover letter example provides an example for the government sector. These WA Nursing selection criteria responses provide more examples.

Final Tips for Writing Your Nursing Cover Letter

  • Tailor Your Letter: Customise each cover letter for the specific nursing job you’re applying for in Australia, ensuring it reflects the role’s requirements and the organisation’s values.
  • Adhere to Application Guidelines: Many job ads will specify how long your cover letter needs to be. If the guidelines state 1-2 pages, make sure you don’t go over that. Limit your cover letter to one page if no guidance is provided. Ensure each paragraph adds value to your application (i.e. avoid waffle!).
  • Proofread: Nursing roles require attention to detail, so your cover letter must be free of spelling and grammatical errors.

By following these guidelines and understanding the distinctions between public and private sector roles, you can create an effective Australian nursing cover letter that sets you apart from other applicants.

Need help writing your application? Contact us for a quote.

Nicole Wren

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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