High School Student Resume Australia: Complete Guide with Examples 2025

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High School Student Resume Australia:

Complete Guide with Examples 2025

 

 

Creating a resume as a high school student can feel intimidating, but landing your first part-time job is an achievable goal with the right approach. Australian employers who hire students understand you’re building experience, and they value enthusiasm, reliability, and willingness to learn more than extensive work history.

This comprehensive guide provides complete high school student resume examples, templates, and expert tips specifically for the Australian job market to help you land your first job.

 

Why High School Students Should Work

Part-time work during high school offers valuable benefits:

Financial Independence: Earn your own money for savings, expenses, and activities.

Work Experience: Develop professional skills that benefit future career.

Time Management: Learn to balance work, school, and activities.

Responsibility: Build work ethic and reliability.

Career Exploration: Discover interests and potential career paths.

Resume Building: Create foundation for future job applications.

 

What Employers Look For in High School Students

Employers hiring students prioritize specific qualities:

Key Qualities

Reliability: Showing up on time and completing shifts consistently is crucial.

Positive Attitude: Enthusiasm and willingness to learn matter more than experience.

Flexibility: Availability for weekends, evenings, and school holidays is valuable.

Teamwork: Ability to work well with colleagues in fast-paced environments.

Communication: Clear, friendly communication with customers and team members.

Work Ethic: Willingness to work hard and take initiative.

 

Common Student Jobs

Popular first jobs for high school students:

  • Retail: Woolworths, Coles, Kmart, Target, Bunnings
  • Fast food: McDonald’s, KFC, Hungry Jack’s, Subway
  • Hospitality: Cafes, restaurants, cinemas
  • Other: Tutoring, babysitting, lawn mowing

 

High School Student Resume Structure

Follow this proven structure:

  1. Contact Information
  • Full name
  • Mobile phone number
  • Professional email address
  • Suburb and postcode

 

  1. Career Objective
  • 2-3 sentences expressing interest and enthusiasm
  • Highlight key qualities and availability
  1. Key Skills
  • 6-10 bullet points of transferable skills
  • Focus on soft skills and personal qualities

 

  1. Education
  • Current year level and school
  • Expected completion date
  • Relevant subjects
  • Academic achievements

 

  1. Work Experience (if any)
  • Include casual work, even brief employment
  • Babysitting, lawn mowing, tutoring all count

 

  1. Volunteer Experience
  • School canteen, community service, charity work
  • Describe responsibilities and skills developed

 

  1. Extracurricular Activities
  • Sports, clubs, student council
  • Demonstrate teamwork and commitment

 

  1. Achievements and Awards
  • School awards, sports achievements, recognition

 

  1. Personal Attributes (optional but helpful)
  • 4-6 bullet points describing character

 

  1. Availability
  • Specific days and times you can work

 

  1. Referees
  • Teachers, coaches, volunteer coordinators
  • Or “References available upon request”

 

Complete High School Student Resume Examples

 

Example 1: Year 10 Student (No Work Experience)

Plain Text

ISABELLA CHEN Mobile: 0412 345 678 Email: isabella.chen@email.com Location: Chatswood, NSW 2067 CAREER OBJECTIVE Enthusiastic and reliable Year 10 student seeking first part-time position to develop professional skills and work ethic. Strong communication skills, friendly personality, and genuine interest in customer service. Quick learner with excellent attendance record and flexible availability including weekends and school holidays. Eager to contribute positively to a supportive team. KEY SKILLS • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills • Friendly, approachable personality • Strong work ethic and reliability • Team player with positive attitude • Quick learner and adaptable • Good time management and organization • Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office, Google Suite) • Cash handling (through school fundraising) • Flexible availability EDUCATION Year 10 Student Chatswood High School Current (Expected completion: 2027) Relevant Subjects: • Business Studies • Food Technology • Mathematics • English Academic Performance:

• Consistent B+ average across all subjects • Perfect attendance (2024) • Student Representative Council member VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE School Canteen Assistant Chatswood High School February 2024 – Present • Serve food and beverages to 100+ students during lunch breaks • Handle cash transactions and provide change accurately • Maintain food hygiene and cleanliness standards • Work efficiently during busy lunch periods • Collaborate with other volunteers to ensure smooth operations • Demonstrate punctuality by arriving on time for all shifts • Receive positive feedback from canteen coordinator Community Clean-Up Volunteer Willoughby City Council 2023 – 2024 • Participated in quarterly community clean-up events • Worked as part of volunteer team to clean local parks and beaches • Demonstrated environmental awareness and community spirit • Showed commitment by attending regularly EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES School Netball Team Chatswood High School, 2023 – Present • Train twice weekly and compete in weekend matches • Demonstrate teamwork and collaboration • Show commitment and reliability by attending all training sessions • Develop time management skills balancing sport and studies Drama Club Member Chatswood High School, 2024 – Present • Participate in school productions and performances • Develop confidence and communication skills • Collaborate with team members on creative projects BABYSITTING EXPERIENCE Casual Babysitter Various Families in Chatswood 2023 – Present • Care for children aged 4-10 years • Prepare meals and snacks • Supervise homework and activities • Demonstrate responsibility, patience, and trustworthiness • Receive positive feedback and repeat bookings from families ACHIEVEMENTS • Perfect Attendance Award (2024) • Student Representative Council Member (2024-2025)

• Netball Team “Most Improved Player” (2024) • School Values Award for Respect (2023) • Mathematics Excellence Award (2023) PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES • Punctual and reliable • Friendly and customer-focused • Eager to learn and develop new skills • Comfortable working in fast-paced environments • Strong attention to detail • Positive attitude and team spirit • Responsible and trustworthy AVAILABILITY Available for: • Weekdays after 3:30 PM (3-4 hours) • All day weekends • School holidays (full availability) • Public holidays • Can work 10-20 hours per week during school term • Can work 30+ hours per week during school holidays REFEREES Ms. Sarah Williams Canteen Coordinator Chatswood High School Phone: 0423 456 789 Email: s.williams@chatswood-h.schools.nsw.edu.au Mr. David Thompson Netball Coach Chatswood High School Phone: 0434 567 890 Email: d.thompson@chatswood-h.schools.nsw.edu.au Mrs. Jennifer Brown Parent (Babysitting Reference) Phone: 0445 678 901 Email: jennifer.brown@email.com

 

Example 2: Year 11 Student (Some Casual Work Experience)

Plain Text

LIAM MURPHY Mobile: 0456 789 012 Email: liam.murphy@email.com Location: Geelong, VIC 3220 CAREER OBJECTIVE Hardworking and reliable Year 11 student seeking part-time retail or hospitality position. Proven work ethic through lawn mowing business and volunteer commitments. Strong customer service skills, positive attitude, and flexible availability including weekends and evenings. Eager to expand professional experience and contribute to a dynamic team. KEY SKILLS • Customer service and communication • Cash handling and basic bookkeeping • Time management and organization • Problem-solving and initiative • Team collaboration • Physical fitness for active work • Reliable and punctual • Flexible availability EDUCATION Year 11 Student Geelong High School Current (Expected completion: 2026) Relevant Subjects: • Business Management • Physical Education • Mathematics • English Academic Performance: • B average across all subjects • Business Management Award (2024)

• Perfect Attendance Award (2023) WORK EXPERIENCE Lawn Mowing and Garden Maintenance Self-Employed, Geelong VIC January 2023 – Present • Provide lawn mowing and garden maintenance services to 10+ regular clients • Manage scheduling and communicate with clients professionally • Handle payments and maintain basic financial records • Demonstrate reliability by completing jobs on time and in all weather conditions • Receive positive feedback and referrals from satisfied clients • Develop customer service, time management, and business skills • Manage equipment maintenance and safety Key Achievements: • Built client base from 0 to 10+ regular customers through word-of-mouth • Maintained 100% customer retention rate • Received multiple 5-star reviews and referrals VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE Junior Sports Coach Assistant Geelong Basketball Association 2024 – Present • Assist head coach with training sessions for under-12s team • Supervise and mentor young players during practices and games • Set up and pack down equipment • Demonstrate leadership, patience, and communication skills • Receive positive feedback from parents and head coach School Fundraising Committee Geelong High School 2023 – 2024 • Organized and ran school fundraising events (BBQs, bake sales) • Handled cash sales and managed money responsibly • Collaborated with team members to achieve fundraising goals

• Developed organizational and teamwork skills • Raised over $2,500 for school programs EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES School Basketball Team Geelong High School, 2022 – Present • Train regularly and compete in weekend matches • Demonstrate teamwork, commitment, and reliability • Serve as vice-captain (2024) Student Leadership Program Geelong High School, 2024 • Participated in leadership training and development • Organized school events and activities • Developed leadership and communication skills ACHIEVEMENTS • Business Management Award (2024) • Perfect Attendance Award (2023) • Basketball Team Vice-Captain (2024) • School Values Award for Leadership (2024) • Built successful lawn mowing business (10+ regular clients) PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES • Punctual and dependable • Strong work ethic and initiative • Friendly and customer-focused • Eager to learn and develop skills • Comfortable in fast-paced environments • Responsible and trustworthy • Positive attitude and enthusiasm • Good under pressure AVAILABILITY Available for: • Weekdays after 3:30 PM (3-5 hours) • All day weekends • School holidays (full availability) • Public holidays • Can work 15-25 hours per week during school term • Can work 35+ hours per week during school holidays REFEREES Mr. Anthony Russo Head Coach Geelong Basketball Association Phone: 0467 890 123 Email: anthony.russo@gba.org.au Ms. Rebecca Taylor Teacher & Fundraising Coordinator Geelong High School Phone: 0478 901 234 Email: r.taylor@geelong-hs.vic.edu.au Mr. Peter Davidson Client (Lawn Mowing Services) Phone: 0489 012 345 Email: peter.davidson@email.com

 

Example 3: Year 12 Student (Multiple Experiences)

Plain Text

EMMA WILSON Mobile: 0490 123 456 Email: emma.wilson@email.com Location: Perth, WA 6000 CAREER OBJECTIVE Motivated and experienced Year 12 student seeking part-time position in retail or hospitality. Two years of customer service experience through tutoring and volunteer work, combined with strong academic performance and leadership roles. Excellent communication skills, reliable work ethic, and flexible availability. Seeking to contribute skills and enthusiasm to a dynamic team. KEY SKILLS • Customer service and communication • Cash handling and POS systems • Teaching and mentoring • Team collaboration and leadership • Time management and organization • Problem-solving and initiative • Computer skills (Microsoft Office, Google Suite) • Social media management • Flexible availability EDUCATION Year 12 Student Perth Modern School Current (Expected completion: November 2025) Relevant Subjects: • Business Management & Enterprise • English (ATAR) • Mathematics Methods • Psychology Academic Performance: • A average across all subjects • School Prefect (2025) • Student Representative Council member (2024-2025) WORK EXPERIENCE Private Tutor Self-Employed, Perth WA March 2023 – Present • Provide one-on-one tutoring in Mathematics and English to 6+ students (Years 7-10) • Plan and deliver engaging lessons tailored to individual learning needs • Communicate regularly with parents regarding student progress • Manage scheduling and handle payments professionally • Demonstrate patience, communication skills, and teaching ability • Receive positive feedback from students and parents

• All students have improved grades by at least one level Key Achievements: • Built tutoring client base from 0 to 6+ regular students • 100% of students improved grades • Received multiple parent testimonials and referrals Retail Assistant (Casual) Target, Perth WA December 2024 – January 2025 (School Holiday Employment) • Assisted customers with product selection and inquiries • Processed transactions using POS system efficiently and accurately • Maintained store presentation and merchandising standards • Restocked shelves and organized inventory • Worked collaboratively with team during busy holiday period • Received positive feedback from customers and management VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE Op Shop Assistant Red Cross Op Shop, Perth WA 2023 – 2024 • Assisted customers with product selection and inquiries • Processed cash and card payments using POS system • Organized and displayed donated items attractively • Sorted and priced incoming donations • Maintained clean, welcoming shop environment • Demonstrated reliability by attending all scheduled shifts • Developed customer service and retail skills School Peer Support Leader Perth Modern School 2024 – Present • Mentor and support Year 8 students during transition to high school • Facilitate weekly peer support sessions • Demonstrate leadership, communication, and empathy • Receive training in peer support and mentoring EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES School Debating Team Perth Modern School, 2023 – Present • Compete in inter-school debating competitions • Develop public speaking, critical thinking, and teamwork skills

• Serve as team captain (2025) School Magazine Editor Perth Modern School, 2024 – 2025 • Edit and coordinate production of school magazine • Manage team of student writers and photographers • Develop leadership, communication, and organizational skills ACHIEVEMENTS • School Prefect (2025) • Debating Team Captain (2025) • School Magazine Editor (2024-2025) • Academic Excellence Award (2024) • Student Representative Council Member (2024-2025) • Built successful tutoring business (6+ regular clients) • Target “Star Performer” recognition (January 2025) PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES • Punctual and reliable • Excellent communicator • Strong leadership skills • Customer-focused and friendly • Eager to learn and develop • Comfortable in fast-paced environments • Responsible and trustworthy • Positive attitude and team spirit AVAILABILITY Available for: • Weekdays after 3:00 PM (3-5 hours) • All day weekends • School holidays (full availability) • Public holidays • Can work 15-25 hours per week during school term • Can work 35+ hours per week during school holidays • Available full-time from December 2025 (after graduation) REFEREES Ms. Rachel Green Store Manager Target Perth Phone: 0401 234 567 Email: rachel.green@target.com.au Mr. David Chen Teacher & Peer Support Coordinator Perth Modern School Phone: 0412 345 678 Email: d.chen@perthmodern.wa.edu.au Mrs. Sarah Thompson Parent (Tutoring Reference) Phone: 0423 456 789 Email: sarah.thompson@email.com

 

Tips for High School Students

  1. Emphasize Transferable Skills

Connect school experiences to job requirements:

From School:

  • Group projects → Teamwork
  • Presentations → Communication
  • Meeting deadlines → Time management
  • Studying → Work ethic, commitment

From Sports:

  • Team sports → Collaboration
  • Training → Discipline, commitment
  • Competing → Handling pressure

From Volunteer Work:

  • Any volunteer role → Reliability, community spirit
  • Customer-facing roles → Communication, service

 

  1. Include ALL Relevant Experience

Don’t dismiss experience as “not real work”:

  • Babysitting → Responsibility, problem-solving
  • Lawn mowing → Customer service, reliability
  • Tutoring → Communication, patience
  • Pet sitting → Trustworthiness
  • School canteen → Food handling, cash handling

 

  1. Highlight Availability

Clearly state when you can work:

  • Specific days and times
  • Weekends (highly valuable)
  • Public holidays
  • School holidays
  • Hours per week

Flexibility increases your chances.

 

  1. Use a Strong Career Objective

Make it specific and enthusiastic:

Good Example: “Enthusiastic Year 10 student seeking first part-time retail position to develop customer service skills. Strong communication abilities, positive attitude, and flexible availability including weekends. Eager to learn and contribute to team success.”

Weak Example: “Looking for a part-time job.”

 

  1. Get Strong References

Choose referees who can speak positively about you:

  • Teachers (especially those who know you well)
  • Coaches
  • Volunteer coordinators
  • Employers (if you’ve done casual work)
  • Family friends in professional roles (not relatives)

Always:

  • Ask permission before listing someone
  • Give them a heads-up when employers might call
  • Provide them with a copy of your resume

 

  1. Keep It Professional

Email Address:

  • ✅ firstname.lastname@email.com
  • ❌ partygirl123@email.com

Language:

  • Use proper grammar and spelling
  • Avoid slang or text speak
  • Be specific and concrete

Formatting:

  • Clear headings
  • Consistent formatting
  • Professional font
  • Adequate white space

 

  1. Balance School and Work

When stating availability:

  • Be realistic about hours
  • Prioritize school commitments
  • Show you can manage both

Most employers understand school comes first.

 

  1. Proofread Carefully

Check for:

  • Spelling errors
  • Grammar mistakes
  • Consistent formatting
  • Accurate contact information
  • Correct dates

Have a parent or teacher review it.

 

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Making It Too Short

Include:

  • Education details
  • Volunteer work
  • Extracurricular activities
  • Achievements
  • Personal attributes

Aim for 1-2 pages.

 

  1. Using Generic Objectives

Avoid:

  • ❌ “Seeking a challenging position”
  • ❌ “Looking for a job”

Use specific statements:

  • ✅ “Enthusiastic Year 11 student seeking retail position to develop customer service skills”

 

  1. Including Irrelevant Information

Don’t include:

  • Age (unless required)
  • Photo (unless requested)
  • Unrelated hobbies
  • Personal details (marital status, religion)

 

  1. Poor Formatting

Use:

  • Clear headings
  • Consistent formatting
  • Professional font (Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman)
  • Font size 10-12 points
  • Adequate white space

 

  1. Typos and Errors

Proofread multiple times. Errors suggest carelessness.

 

  1. Negative Language

Avoid:

  • ❌ “Although I don’t have experience…”
  • ❌ “I’m just a student…”

Use positive language:

  • ✅ “Eager to develop skills…”
  • ✅ “Quick learner with strong work ethic…”

 

Where to Apply

Retail

  • Supermarkets: Woolworths, Coles, ALDI, IGA
  • Department stores: Kmart, Target, Big W
  • Fashion: Cotton On, H&M, Uniqlo
  • Hardware: Bunnings

 

Hospitality

  • Fast food: McDonald’s, KFC, Hungry Jack’s, Subway
  • Cafes and restaurants
  • Cinemas
  • Entertainment venues

 

Other Opportunities

  • Tutoring
  • Babysitting
  • Pet care
  • Lawn mowing
  • Delivery services (if 18+)

 

Balancing School and Work

Time Management Tips

Prioritize School:

  • School comes first
  • Don’t let work affect grades
  • Communicate with employer about exam periods

Manage Your Time:

  • Use a planner or calendar
  • Schedule study time
  • Don’t overcommit

Communicate:

  • Be honest with employer about availability
  • Give advance notice of school commitments
  • Request time off for exams

 

Legal Requirements

Age Restrictions:

  • Minimum working age varies by state (typically 13-15)
  • Some jobs require minimum age 15 or 18

Working Hours:

  • School-age workers have restrictions on hours
  • Can’t work during school hours
  • Maximum hours vary by state and age

Pay Rates:

  • Junior rates apply (percentage of adult rate)
  • Rates increase with age
  • Weekend and public holiday rates higher

Check Your State’s Rules:

  • Visit Fair Work website
  • Understand your rights
  • Know minimum pay rates

 

Conclusion

Creating a strong resume as a high school student is absolutely achievable. Employers who hire students understand you’re building experience, and they value enthusiasm, reliability, and willingness to learn more than extensive work history.

By highlighting your transferable skills, volunteer work, school achievements, and personal qualities, you can create a compelling resume that demonstrates your potential. Use the examples in this guide as templates, customize them for your specific situation, and proofread carefully before submitting.

Part-time work during high school provides valuable experience, financial independence, and professional skills that benefit your future career. With a well-crafted resume and positive attitude, you’ll be well-positioned to land your first job and begin your career journey.

Good luck with your job search!

 

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