Inquiry welcome opportunity to secure future of Australia Post
The Union representing postal workers has welcomed a parliamentary inquiry into the future of Australia Post as a positive step towards ensuring Australians can continue to access the essential postal services they need and deserve.
Communication Workers Union (CWU) National Secretary Shane Murphy said ensuring Australia Post is set up to deliver an accessible, affordable and reliable postal service for decades to come is crucial.
“Australia Post provides an essential service to Australians, no matter where they live, and must be set up to continue to do so well into the future,” Mr Murphy said.
“Postal workers are on the frontline of this service every day. They know what works, what doesn’t and where improvements could be made. Their voices must be central to any discussion about the future of Australia Post.
“There’s no question that when it comes to postal services, demand has changed. Australia Post needs to change with it, but that change needs to strengthen the service, not diminish it.
“Any examination of its future must begin with a simple principle – Australians should continue to enjoy reliable postal services at an affordable price, regardless of whether they live in the centre of Sydney or a remote and regional community.
“Uniform pricing and service obligations underpin the integrated network that ensures Australians can participate equally in the national economy, regardless of where they live or operate a business from. That principle must remain at the heart of Australia Post’s future.”
Mr Murphy said Australia Post is much more than a letter and parcel delivery service.
“For many Australians, their local post office is a vital connection to banking, government services and the wider community. For small businesses, uniform pricing and the integrated delivery network make it possible to compete for customers across Australia, regardless of whether they operate from Dubbo, Longreach, Launceston or a major city.
“Australia Post is also an important source of secure, quality jobs, particularly in regional and rural Australia. Protecting those jobs and drawing on the skills, knowledge and experience of the postal workers who deliver to every corner of the country must be central to this inquiry.
“As Australia Post adapts to changing customer needs, we can’t lose sight of what makes it so important in the first place. That means protecting the universal nature of the service, maintaining a strong network of post offices and ensuring the workers who deliver those services have secure jobs and decent working conditions.
“The CWU looks forward to contributing to that conversation and ensuring the voices of postal workers and the communities they serve are heard.”
Media contacts: Alana Mew, 0419 929 722
