Queensland mail delivery returning to normal
Australia Post has confirmed that transportation of mail via road for delivery into Queensland has recommenced, though sea and air transport would also be used to manage the backlog of mail. “With a number of major arterial roads now open, mail is now flowing in and out of Queensland, as well as from point to point within Queensland, and our people are working around the clock to process the backlog of mail that has been held at facilities,” said Australia Post managing director and CEO, Ahmed Fahour.
Delivery of mail to businesses and households in flood-affected areas is slowly returning to normal though in cases where flood damage to properties prevents mail from being delivered, Australia Post is offering free mail direction.
“As of today, we are able to deliver to 75% of addresses in the Brisbane metropolitan area, and we expect that to improve over the coming week as people return to their homes and roads become fully accessible.”
“We know that people are relying on us to get mail through, and our posties, mail sorters and staff at our outlets are doing an outstanding job of getting on top of the backlog and delivering wherever it is safe to do so.
“Mail for affected households will be held at our delivery centres and Australia Post will continue to offer free mail redirections for those unable to have mail delivered to their current address.”
To help process the build up of mail, Australia Post is also transporting letters via air, and parcels via sea to the northern regions. However, with freight capacity limited, essential supplies will sometimes take precedence, so while people in other states are encouraged to send mail to Queensland, it is important that they are aware that mail may take a few days longer than normal.
Despite mail delivery having recommenced, more than 50 post offices remain closed and one of two Australia Post national customer contact centres, based in Coronation Drive, Brisbane, remains closed which means that calls to the customer feedback line are unfortunately experiencing significant delays.
“We are encouraging customers to visit www.auspost.com.au for updates, but we ask people to be patient and understand that we are in recovery mode after a crisis situation,” said Mr Fahour.
Australia Post’s thoughts are with everyone has been affected by the disaster and continues to accept donations to the Queensland Premier’s Flood Relief Appeal at its outlets nationwide.
