Pasin backs Senate inquiry into Australia Post's secret plans

PASIN BACKS SENTAE INQURY INTO AUSTRALIA  POST'S SECRET PLANS

Federal Member for Barker Tony Pasin has welcomed the Coalition-led Senate inquiry into Australia Post's secret plans to reduce services and change the future of Licensed Post Offices, warning regional communities cannot afford to lose another essential service.

Mr Pasin said the inquiry follows revelations contained in a leaked Australia Post business case which outlines plans to close metropolitan Licensed Post Offices and pursue widespread "format conversions" across regional and rural Australia.

He said the proposal raises serious concerns for communities throughout Barker, where local post offices are far more than places to send parcels and collect mail.

"Across Barker, our local post offices are an essential part of community life.

They provide banking services, government services, bill payments and a vital point of connection, particularly for older Australians and those living in smaller communities," Mr Pasin said. "Regional communities have already seen too many essential services disappear.

We cannot allow Australia Post to quietly wind back services without proper consultation or transparency." Mr Pasin said the leaked plans have created uncertainty for Licensed Post Office operators who are small business owners serving their local communities.

"They deserve answers, and so do the communities that rely on them. "Australians should not have to learn about significant changes to one of our most trusted public institutions through leaked documents.

"The Managing Director of Australia Post must explain exactly what these plans mean for regional Australia, what consultation has occurred with licence holders, and whether rural communities will lose services as a result.

" Mr Pasin said he has consistently spoken out against decisions that reduce postal services for regional Australians, including rising postage costs and declining service standards. "People in regional Australia should not be expected to pay more while receiving less.

"Every time a service is centralised, downgraded or withdrawn, it places additional pressure on regional communities, local businesses and families who have limited alternatives.

"The Senate inquiry will provide an important opportunity for Licensed Post Office operators and regional communities to have their voices heard.

"Regional Australians deserve confidence that Australia Post remains committed to maintaining accessible, face-to-face postal services in the communities that rely on them.

"I will continue advocating for Barker communities to ensure local post offices are protected and regional voices are heard."