The Australian tech job search, start to finish

Most people start here. Lots of applications, very little back.

Before you change everything, find the part that's failing. It's usually one of three: a recruiter searches and never sees you, software screens your CV out, or the person reading it can't find what they need.

Applying to everything feels busy. It's usually the slowest route.

Set an order instead. Get found, get referred, and apply last. If you're on a visa, read the second post before you send anything.

Recruiters search before they read. The search usually starts with a job title.

If your profile doesn't use the words they type, you're not in the results. It doesn't matter how good you are.

Here's what happens after you hit submit. A question on the form can remove you first.

Then a recruiter searches the pile for the hiring manager's words and reads what comes back. Your CV needs those words, attached to work you actually did.

A referral is the one route that starts with a person, not a filter.

When a senior role seems to close through referrals, the door usually isn't locked. Someone inside put a name forward first.

The panel decides from their notes. Every answer has to give them something to write down.

Practise out loud, and face the hard follow-up questions before the panel asks them.

The negotiation starts on the first recruiter call, not at the offer.

Have your number ready before that call. When the offer comes, don't say yes on the phone.

AI turns up at every stage, on both sides of the desk.

These four cover what it's good for, what it can't see, and what's changing before 2027.