The driver of reform in Australia Post should be accessible, affordable and reliable postal services for the community rather than generating additional profits to Australia Post or increased dividends to government, the Union representing postal workers said today.
CEPU Postal Union NSW Secretary Jim Metcher said cutting mail delivery frequency to three days a week might save money but would undermine public confidence in Australia Post’s service.
Following representations made at senior levels by Mr Metcher, Australia Post has, despite inaccurate media reporting, confirmed the following clear message to their employees;
“Our posties will still do their rounds every day but the sender can choose a price point and speed that suits their needs.”
Source: Manager’s Update 24 June 2014 – click to download
However, despite the above being confirmed, proposed postal reforms go a whole lot further than just letter delivery services and while sensible reform is needed to ensure sustainability of the postal service, the process shouldn’t be driven by a narrow focus on generating revenue, said Mr Metcher.
“The real bottom line for Australia Post should be continued community access to universal post services that are affordable and reliable,” said Mr Metcher.
“The business of Australia Post is going through a time of disruptive change and workers and the community want to be part of the planning for a more sustainable future for Australia Post .
“Australia Post workers would welcome working together with the government on a plan for maintaining and improving the quality services and financial security of the postal service.
“We’re open to the idea that Australia Post could undertake more government services, as reported in the media.
“However, there would need to be a proper and open assessment to what those government services are, that will need to be supported by adequate and skilled resources to ensure the extra services could be offered whilemaintaining high customer service.
“The Union do not support any reforms that involved the closure of Corporate Post Office outlets given the retail network remains viable and returns a profit or reducing the delivery frequency rate from five days to three days.
“This would do nothing to improve overall services and could have the unintended consequence of the broader community losing confidence and trust in Australia Post as a reliable postal service provider.
“For a strong future we need secure jobs, commitment to a national public postal service network and engagement with communities to make sure we are meeting people’s needs in a changing economy,” Mr Metcher said.
Comments are closed.
