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Resignation Templates

Free · Australia · Not legal advice

Resignation Letter (Australia)

An Australian resignation letter puts your resignation and last working day in writing. Copy the template below, then confirm the notice period set by your award, enterprise agreement, or contract.

How much notice to give in Australia

When you resign, the notice you must give is usually set by your modern award, enterprise agreement, or employment contract. Many awards require between one and four weeks depending on how long you have worked there. If no award or agreement applies, your contract sets the notice. The NES minimum notice periods are the amounts an employer must give you on termination, and awards often mirror them for resignations.

  • Check your modern award or enterprise agreement first — it usually sets your notice.
  • Typical notice is 1 week (up to ~1 year) rising to around 4 weeks for longer service.
  • No award or agreement? Your employment contract sets the notice period.
  • You may be entitled to be paid out for accrued annual leave when you finish.
  • Long service leave rules vary by state and territory.

For the official position, see the Fair Work Ombudsman guidance on notice of termination and your specific award or agreement.

Standard Australian resignation letter

Dear Alex Rivera,

Please accept this letter as notice of my resignation from my position as Marketing Coordinator at Acme Pty Ltd. In line with the notice period in my award/contract, my last working day will be 3 October 2026.

Thank you for the opportunities during my time with the team. I am happy to help with a smooth handover before my final day.

Kind regards,
Jordan Lee

Short Australian resignation letter

Dear Alex Rivera,

I am resigning from my position as Marketing Coordinator at Acme Pty Ltd. My last working day will be 3 October 2026.

Thank you for the opportunity. I am happy to help with the handover.

Kind regards,
Jordan Lee

Prefer to build your own wording? Use the resignation letter generator and adjust the tone, names, and dates.

Wording and format in Australia

In Australia your minimum entitlements come from the National Employment Standards (NES) under the Fair Work Act, with most jobs also covered by a modern award or enterprise agreement. Letters usually open with “Dear [Name]” and close with “Kind regards.” Use Australian spelling (organisation, recognise) and the day-month-year date format, for example 3 October 2026.

What to do

  • Check your award, agreement, or contract for the required notice
  • State your resignation and exact last working day in writing
  • Ask about your final pay and accrued annual leave payout
  • Offer a clear handover before you finish

What to leave out

  • Assuming two weeks applies — Australian notice depends on your award/contract
  • Airing grievances in the letter
  • Leaving without a written, dated record

Australia resignation letter FAQ

How much notice do I give when resigning in Australia?

It is usually set by your modern award, enterprise agreement, or employment contract — commonly one to four weeks depending on your length of service. Check the document that covers your job. This is general information, not legal advice.

Do I get paid out for annual leave when I resign?

Generally, accrued but unused annual leave is paid out when your employment ends. The exact rules and any long service leave depend on your award, agreement, and state or territory. Confirm with your employer or the Fair Work Ombudsman.

Do I have to give a reason for resigning?

No. You are not required to explain why you are leaving. A short, professional letter with your last working day is enough.

Can I resign by email in Australia?

Usually yes, unless your contract or agreement requires a particular method. Email gives you a clear dated record of your notice.

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