Dear Mrs Irwin

Australia Post —petition request for the retention of postal services in Traralgon.

Thank you for your letter dated 26 June 2008 to the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, the Hon Anthony Albanese MP, concerning a petition submitted for the committee’s consideration regarding the relocation of postal services in Traralgon, Victoria. Your letter has been referred to me as I have portfolio responsibility for this matter.

Under the Australian Postal Corporation Act 1989, Australia Post is responsible for the day to day running of the organisation, including all operational matters. As far as practicable it is required to perform its functions in a manner consistent with sound commercial practice.

Australia Post has advised that no decision has been made to relocate its retail services from the Traralgon Post Office in Franklin Street.

I am informed that Australia Post regularly assesses options to review its retail network, consisting of over 4000 outlets across Australia. There are currently two retail outlets in close proximity in Traralgon’s central business district and accordingly Australia Post is undertaking a review to assess postal services to the whole city of Traralgon, not just the central business district. Australia Post has assured me that the review process will include extensive community consultation.

I trust this information will be of assistance.

From the Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Conroy, to a petition presented on 25 June by Mr Billson (from 3,821 citizens)