Australia Post urged to reconsider decision to stop perishable goods delivery

The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman Bruce Billson has called on Australia Post to delay its intention to stop delivering perishable goods. According to Billson, such a policy would have a savage impact on small-business producers.

“Given Australia Post has 80 per cent share of the total delivery market, this abrupt decision could prove to be devastating to those small business food producers who rely on this essential postage service,” Billson said. “So many small businesses moved to selling their products online as a result of the COVID crisis. They need some additional time to consider what options they have to fulfil their orders.”

Billson added that Australia Post’s decision to cease delivery of various perishable goods from June 30 is a self-imposed deadline that could be delayed, which would be an opportunity for it to address the concerns raised and provide assistance to the affected small-business food producers.

“We strongly encourage Australia Post to consider the impact this will have on their small-business customers and to work with regulators to find a way to continue this essential service,” Billson said.

The ASBFEO noted that it has already reached out to Australia Post and the state small business commissioners and have expressed to them their willingness to discuss the matter further with industry regulators in an effort to resolve any issues Australia Post is experiencing across the delivery network with regulatory matters.

“It is crucial to support small businesses as they work to recover from an incredibly challenging 12 months. Part of that is ensuring essential services such as postage of goods are both readily available and affordable to these affected small businesses,” Billson concluded.