Download a copy of the McKell Institute’s report “Digital Post” by clicking on the image above
The Communications Union has today called on the Federal Government to outline a comprehensive plan for the future of Australia Post, which doesn’t involve simply jacking up prices and slowing down services.
Changes to Post quietly introduced last week by Communications Minister Malcolm Turnbull pave the way for a doubling of stamp prices and will see mail take up to a week to arrive at its destination.
Communications, Electrical and Plumbing Union (CEPU) NSW/ACT Secretary Jim Metcher said a report released today by the McKell institute – Digital Post – highlighted the inadequacy of the Federal Government’s plan for Post.
“Under the Government’s changes, you will be able to walk a letter to its destination faster than you’ll be able to post it.
“As the McKell report highlights, charging a higher price for a lower quality service is never going to put Australia Post on a sustainable footing – instead it will drive customers away and kill our national postal service.
Mr Metcher said the union recognised the need for change, but the Government needed to widen its view beyond its plans for a two-speed letter service and address the recommendations in the McKell Institute’s review.
“There is no doubt Australia Post needs to change and adapt to the digital world, but we need a plan which puts Post on a sustainable footing.
“There hasn’t been a proper review of Post’s Community Service Obligations since the 1990s, so the Government needs to look at those obligations in the context of today’s digital world.
“There are clear opportunities for Post to develop and extend value added digital mail services while also diversifying into complimentary business and community services.
“Until the Federal Government tackles these broader issues and Post takes a truly innovative approach to refreshing its business model, we will continue to see a decline in business.
“It is critical we develop a long term plan for the future of Australia Post so that this national icon continues well into the future, and the 32,500 jobs that Post supports are protected,” Mr Metcher said.
Media contact: Jemma Williams 0431 460 853
Comments are closed.
