The price of sending a standard letter could soon rise again, as use of traditional mail continues to decline.
Australia Post submitted a proposal to increase the basic postage rate for a standard letter from $1.70 to $1.85 to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) at the end of last year, as part of their draft price notification process.
According to the mail company, traditional mail use has continued to decline as Aussies turn to digital communication, with letter volumes falling by 11.7 per cent in the 2024-25 financial year.
They said letter volumes were now at levels “not seen in Australia since the late 1930s”.
Consumers account for less than 3 per cent of all letters sent, with most mail generated by businesses and government agencies, according to Australia Post.
Australia post also said the proposed increase would not have a major impact on households, with the average home purchasing only five full-rate stamps each year, which is an additional annual cost of about 75 cents.
They explained that the decline in traditional letter services is also happening worldwide and will continue make mailing letters accessible while adapting to the structural decline in mail volumes.
Despite the changes, the cost of concession and seasonal greeting stamps will remain the same, at 60 cents and 65 cents respectively.
The number of concession stamps eligible customers can buy annually will also increase from 50 to 75.
A consultation period will take place before the final decision is made by the ACCC.
If the changes are approved, Australia post will have to formally apply for the price change and customers will be given a notice at least 30 days before the changes are applied.
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