The cover letter should outline your reasons for applying and demonstrate how you meet the requirements of the position.

It is normally the first thing the selection panel will read. It is important that the cover letter looks presentable, sounds positive and enthusiastic, and attracts the reader's attention. It is also one way of demonstrating your written communication skills.

Keep your cover letter to a single page, as too much information, if it is not relevant to the position, may detract from the letter.

It is recommended that you include the following information in your covering letter:

• Your address.
• Date of your application.
• Title and reference number of the position for which you're applying.
• Indication of what is included in your application; for example, resume, statement addressing the selection criteria (optional), written references (optional) etc.
• Statement of why you are interested and what particularly attracts you about the position and the work area.
• Outline how you meet the requirements of the position and selection criteria. This may include highlighting the most relevant skills or abilities you can bring to the position, your familiarity with the workplace/job requirements, and relevant personal qualities or attributes.
• Examples of how you meet the selection criteria (optional).
• How and when you can be contacted if required to attend an interview.