Save Australia Post Services

I am concerned by the Government’s decision to amend Australia Post regulations to scale back services, slash jobs and cut wages.

I believe the parcels boom should be an opportunity to preserve and create more jobs – not cut them.

These regulations halve the frequency of delivery rounds, leaving the jobs of up to one in four posties in limbo and many other indirect jobs at risk.

There was no consultation by Government on these regulations before they were announced, and no opportunity to examine the merits and impacts of alternative approaches.

The Government claims these regulations are a temporary response to COVID-19.

The Labor Party is concerned, however, that the planned changes are intended to be permanent with COVID-19 being used as an excuse to ram them through without appropriate scrutiny. 

This is disrespectful to the workers of Australia Post who have done so much for the country, and a breach of faith with the community.

If Scott Morrison and Australia Post want to make the case for change, they should give an honest account of their plans rather than using COVID-19 as an excuse to cut services and cut jobs by stealth.

The Labor Party will seek to disallow these regulations in the Parliament.

Our objective is simple: to protect jobs and provide a service that meets the needs of consumers, business and the community at large.

We would like to see Australia Post and its unions work together to support the growing demand for parcels and support jobs.

The Labor Party will also move to establish a Senate Inquiry to provide the community with a voice and deliver the scrutiny this important issue deserves.