Australia Post is to face a parliamentary inquiry examining the long-term viability and accessibility of its postal network as demand for letters and visits to some post offices continue to fall.
Communications Minister Annika Wells has asked the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Communications, the Arts and Sport to investigate how the service can adapt to changing community and commercial needs.
The inquiry will consider ways to diversify services delivered through Australia Post’s network, with particular attention to supporting the viability of post offices and the communities they serve.
Businesses, residents and other stakeholders will be invited to contribute before the committee reports its recommendations in the second quarter of 2027.
Ms Wells said changing consumer behaviour and commercial conditions posed significant challenges to Australia Post’s sustainability, reflecting pressures experienced by postal organisations around the world.
“That’s why I’ve asked the House committee to explore how we can better support a sustainable and accessible postal service that delivers for all Australians,” she said.
Australia Post has operated for more than 200 years, but the growth of online retail has reshaped postal services and contributed to declining demand for traditional mail and over-the-counter services.
The organisation said it wanted to work with stakeholders to develop a modern service. A spokesman described Australia Post as essential national infrastructure that connects communities, supports businesses and provides a lifeline during natural disasters, particularly in regional and remote areas.
“For several years, we have highlighted the growing challenges facing Australia Post, which are shared by postal organisations around the world,” the spokesman said. “We welcome the government’s action to address these challenges and support our long-term sustainability.”
The announcement follows a Senate inquiry at which Australia Post was questioned over a confidential document alleged to outline plans to shut down postal services.
Chief executive Paul Graham rejected that interpretation, saying the document concerned a buyback programme for licensees facing financial difficulties. He said Australia Post remained committed to maintaining at least 4,000 retail stores nationally, while acknowledging that licensed post offices were dealing with reduced demand for letters and counter services.
