Stephen Conroy (Victoria, Australian Labor Party, Deputy Leader of the Government in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

The answer to the honourable senator's question is as follows:

(1) There has not been a corresponding growth in the number of parcel contractor numbers in line with growth in parcel volume. However, the contractor terms enable contract principals to expand or maintain their delivery resources depending on the capacity of the particular contractor to accommodate volume growth.

(2) The decision to provide a dedicated parcel delivery service is based on a number of factors including the capacity of the street mail delivery service to provide the service, the volume of parcels received and the cost of providing a dedicated 'to the door' parcel delivery service that is in line with commercial practice.

(3) A pilot of a delivery capability to manage larger parcels “XL parcels” commenced in the Sydney metropolitan areas in late 2011. In February 2012, it was agreed to extend the Sydney “XL parcels” pilot to other capital cities and nominated Regional destinations. A key feature of the service is to call the receiving customer to arrange delivery in order to maximise delivery first time, thereby reducing carding of these articles and minimising handling requirements for licensees and contractors.

(4) Australia Post has guidelines as to the size and weight of parcels that will be accepted for delivery through its normal parcel delivery network. Contract parcel customers may seek approval to lodge parcels up to 22 kg (maximum single dimension 105cm with a maximum volume of 0.25 cubic metres). By exception and through an approval process, contract parcel customers may lodge parcels up to 32 kg (maximum single dimension 115cm with a maximum volume of 0.25 cubic metres). These parameters are set to ensure the Health and Safety of staff and contractors. Any lodgements accepted that fall outside of these parameters are investigated.