A good resume writer can cost anywhere between $150 and $1,500 in Australia, depending on your career level, the writer’s expertise, and the depth of service. Entry-level professionals often pay less, while executives can expect a higher investment due to the strategic storytelling and branding involved.

Below is a full guide breaking down what affects the cost, how to judge value beyond price, and what to expect from different levels of resume writing services.

What does a professional resume writer actually do?

Think of a resume writer as part marketer, part psychologist, and part storyteller. They don’t just list your past jobs; they translate your experience into language that gets attention from recruiters and Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

A skilled resume writer will:

• Analyse your existing resume and identify weaknesses

• Tailor your career story to match your industry

• Optimise keywords for ATS compatibility

• Highlight measurable results rather than job duties

• Craft a narrative that builds credibility and confidence

The result is a document that doesn’t just describe what you’ve done, but why it matters.

How much should you budget for a resume writer?

Here’s a general pricing range you’ll find across Australia:

The biggest price difference comes down to strategy depth and experience of the writer.

Why are some resume writers more expensive than others?

Several factors influence price:

1. Experience and credentials
Writers certified by organisations like the Career Development Association of Australia (CDAA) often charge more because they follow ethical and strategic writing standards.

2. Customisation level
A high-end resume is not a template tweak. It’s built from interviews, research, and tailored career positioning.

3. Turnaround time
Rush orders (within 48 hours) can add 25–50% to the cost.

4. Extra services
Some writers bundle in cover letters, LinkedIn optimisation, or interview coaching, which increases the price but adds value if you’re rebranding your entire career.

Is a good resume worth the money?

In short, yes—if you treat it as an investment, not a cost.

A strong resume can lead to:

• More job interview calls (often 2–3 times higher than with DIY resumes)

• Faster job placement

• Higher salary offers due to better perceived value

Research from Glassdoor shows that candidates with tailored, keyword-optimised resumes are up to 40% more likely to receive interview requests.

If that new job lands you even a 5% pay increase, your resume has already paid for itself many times over.

How to tell if a resume writer is worth their fee

1. Ask about their process
Good writers start with a consultation. They’ll ask about your goals, target roles, and achievements rather than simply request your old resume.

2. Check samples
Look for writing that’s clear, concise, and relevant to your field. Avoid flashy designs that might confuse ATS systems.

3. Read testimonials
Social proof is powerful. Reviews showing consistent success and repeat clients signal authority and reliability.

4. Look for transparent pricing
Reputable writers list clear package details and turnaround times. If pricing seems too good to be true, it usually is.

Are online resume services cheaper?

Online resume services offer a wide range of pricing. Some charge as little as $99, while others exceed $1,000. The key difference lies in whether you’re getting a custom-written resume or a template-based edit.

Low-cost providers often use prewritten templates and limited consultation, while higher-end services involve one-on-one discussions and full rewrites by certified professionals.

If you want consistent quality and credible results, consider reviewing top resume writing services.

Can AI tools replace human resume writers?

AI tools can assist in formatting or suggesting keywords, but they lack human judgement. They can’t interpret soft skills, leadership impact, or emotional tone—the things that persuade hiring managers.

A hybrid approach works best: use AI for structure, but rely on a professional for story, tone, and personal branding.

What should you expect in a resume writing process?

Most professional resume writing services follow a structured process:

1. Consultation call – A short chat to understand your goals and challenges.

2. Information gathering – You provide past resumes, achievements, and job listings.

3. Drafting – The writer crafts your resume with optimised phrasing and formatting.

4. Revisions – You review and provide feedback until it feels accurate and authentic.

5. Delivery – Final documents are provided in Word and PDF formats.

This process can take anywhere from 3 to 10 business days depending on the package.

Are executive resumes worth the high cost?

For executives, the resume doubles as a personal brand document. It needs to showcase leadership impact, business results, and industry credibility.

An executive resume often includes:

• A personal brand summary

• Quantified metrics of performance (revenue growth, cost savings, team leadership)

• Industry keywords and C-suite alignment

At this level, the difference between a $300 generic resume and a $1,200 professionally written one can mean the difference between being shortlisted or overlooked.

How can you save money without compromising quality?

• Choose focused packages – If your LinkedIn is already strong, skip the social media add-on.

• Write your first draft – Providing a solid base reduces time and cost.

• Ask about student or referral discounts – Many writers offer small savings for referrals or multiple document bundles.

Final thoughts

A good resume writer doesn’t just polish words; they position you for opportunity. While prices vary, investing in a credible professional can shorten your job search and improve outcomes.

If you’re comparing your options, explore trusted resources like CareerOne for insights into professional resume writing rates and standards.

For tailored insights into professional writers who deliver value across career stages, check out the top resume writing services.

FAQ

How long does it take to get a resume written?
Most professionals deliver within 3–7 business days, depending on revisions and workload.

Are resume writing services confidential?
Yes. Reputable providers treat all client information with strict privacy standards.

Can a resume writer help with cover letters too?
Absolutely. Most offer bundled packages that include a custom cover letter and LinkedIn profile update for a small additional cost.