Australia Post is warning locals that Christmas cards must be sent by Monday, December 16 to guarantee delivery before the big day.
For cards going interstate, the deadline is Friday, December 13.
Australia Post has revealed its Christmas postage deadlines ahead of what’s expected to be a busy holiday season across the network.
Gary Starr, Australia Post Executive General Manager Parcel, Post and eCommerce Services emphasised the importance of these dates in helping people plan ahead.
“We understand how crucial these deadlines are for ensuring cards and gifts reach loved ones in time for Christmas, which is why we’re providing this information as early as possible. We’ve been preparing for the Christmas rush all year and are bringing on thousands of new team members across our network, plus enhancing delivery updates through the Australia Post app,” he said.
“While we’ll do our best to deliver items sent after these dates as quickly as possible, they may not arrive until after Christmas.”
THE DEADLINES
For sending to and from most destinations within Australia:
• Parcel Post: Parcels should be sent by Friday, December 20
• Express Post: Parcels should be sent by Monday, December 23
• Letters/cards: Christmas letters and cards should be sent by Friday, December 13 (interstate) and Monday, December 16 (same state)
People sending to or from Western Australia and the Northern Territory should allow a few extra days.
For customers sending cards and gifts internationally:
• Economy Air: Last sending dates fall between November 19 – December 4 (depending on the destination)
• International Standard: Enjoy a few extra days to find the perfect gift with last sending dates between November 26 and December 11 (depending on the destination)
• International Express: Last-minute shoppers can take advantage of an extra week with last sending dates between December 2 and 16 (depending on the destination).
All last sending dates are now available at auspost.com.au/christmas, including sending within Australia via Parcel Post and Express Post, and for international sending via Economy Air, International Standard and International Express.
Troy Dodds
Troy Dodds is the Weekender's Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia's leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.