The latest application seeks to increase the basic postage rate (BPR) by 5c, from 55c to 60c, and to increase the prices of large ordinary letters, small ordinary letters, small presort letters and large presort letters.

Philip Andersen, CEO of Printing Industries says Australia Post should be doing more to reduce operational costs rather than taking the easier option of raising prices and costs for its clients for postal services that face no competition due to its monopoly status.

He says, “Major mail users are also concerned that they are part funding Australia Post’s drive to become more automated by investing in software and technology that conforms with Australia Post’s lodgement requirements but are not receiving any monetary compensation in return.”

Andersen continues, “We have prepared an online survey and ask that you participate in helping to identify the likely impacts the proposed increases may have.”

The Association outlines that the survey covers industry employment, production, profitability, investment intentions and the financial viability of mail users. However it also seeks feedback on whether respondents believe these increases, if approved, would have a negative impact on print by driving marketing dollars to alternative marketing channels such as electronic marketing.

Andersen also said it would be useful to have the survey completed as soon as possible and no later than April 23.

The survey can be accessed here.

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