Australia Post must do everything in its power to retain local Post Offices and ensure communities have access to postal services, the CEPU Communications Union said today, following news reports a string of post offices in Sydney and nationwide are to be closed down.
“Australia Post has promised the union that it will do everything possible to turn around profitability of its poor performing Post Offices branches so that its outlets become sustainable – it’s time to follow through on that promise,” said CEPU NSW Branch Secretary Jim Metcher.
“Employees and unions are willing to work with Australia Post to find ways to make this happen.”
Australia Post should be looking at improving the profitability of its entire retail network – not just earmarking individual outlets for closure when profitability becomes an issue or the lease is due for renegotiation, said Mr Metcher.
“Local communities including business will suffer the most when they lose access to their local Post Office. Once it’s gone, it never returns.
“Australia Post should seriously reconsider the closures they’ve already announced and do the right thing by retaining the Post Offices earmarked for closure next year.
“The Federal Government should also be demanding Australia Post find ways to keep branches open, so that Australia Post can meet its community services obligations.
“With so many bank branches gone, closing Post Offices can be the final nail in the coffin for local communities having access to not only postal services but also bill paying and banking facilities.
“Communities rely on access to postal and the other range of services their local post office provides – Australia Post should not pursue larger profits at the expense of local jobs and community services being maintained.”
~ENDS~
Media Contacts:
Jim Metcher – CEPU NSW Branch Secretary: 0418 656 262
Jackie Woods – EMC: 0414 241 483
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