These responses tell the story!
Given that the LPO Group received these responses on the eve of the election, it was an interesting development. And knowing the response of the election I guess we may be able to feel a little more comfortable that they understand the value of the network that we make up.
Greens Response - Sarah Hanson Young via email
On behalf of Senator Hanson-Young, thank you for getting in touch on this important issue.
Community post offices are critical to the communications networks in Australia. As such, we believe that owners and operators of licensed post offices as significant stakeholders must be given a fair deal and adequately considered and consulted in strategic plans for the post network going forward. For this to occur, it requires transparent governance from the top at Australia Post.
As you may know, the Greens, in particular Senator Hanson-Young, have been heavily involved in the Senate inquiry into Australia Post. We will continue in the new parliament to hold this office to account and will fight for the implementation of the recommendations in the resulting report.
We look forward to working with you to ensure the future of community post offices is protected, as they are crucial for Australians across the country.
Labor Response - Milton Dick via email
Thank you for your message regarding the Australia Post Office network.
Anthony Albanese and Labor consider a vibrant and sustainable Post Office network essential, especially for our regional communities who cherish their local post offices so much.
We want to ensure the Australia Post board can better represent the perspectives of the workers and licensees who make the company a cherished national asset.
The Shadow Minister for Communications, Michelle Rowland, has been very forthright in her criticism of the current composition of the Australia Post board.
It is imperative that Australia Post directors include people who have a strong understanding of small businesses and franchisees, and appropriately engage with licensee groups.
We need to ensure the over 2,800 licensees with a significant investment have a stronger and more informed voice on the board in matters that affect them.
Labor has high aspirations for Australia Post and its national network, and if given the privilege of forming a Government, we look forward to detailed engagement about the strategic direction of the company.
Liberal response - Andrew Hirst (not the LPOG Chairman one)
19 May 2022
Ms Angela Cramp Executive Director LPO Group
Email: [email protected]
Dear Ms Cramp,
Thank you for the opportunity to provide the views of the Coalition on important issues facing your members. A response to your questions is attached.
The last two years have been tough for our country.
Despite the setbacks, Australia's economic recovery is leading the world.
Unemployment is at 4%, the equal lowest in 48 years. And the recent Budget included the biggest turnaround in our finances in over 70 years.
There's much more to be done. To build a stronger future, our plan will:
- Deliver more jobs and working towards unemployment below 4%.
- Deliver tax relief for workers and small businesses.
- Invest in roads, rail, water infrastructure and renewable energy technology.
- Make record investments in health and other essential services.
- Invest in stronger defence, security and borders.
This election provides a clear choice, with real consequences for Australia.
The alternative at this election is Anthony Albanese and Labor. Labor would weaken our economy and put Australia's recovery at risk. Now is not the time to change course.
Thank you for communicating our response to your members. Yours sincerely,
MORRISON GOVERNMENT RESPONSE TO LPO GROUP
The Coalition Government strongly supports the ongoing financial viability of Licensed Post Offices, which make up around two-thirds of the national postal outlet network and play a central role in the community, particularly in regional Australia.
We recognise how important-the Bank@Post deals have been for Licensed Post Offices and were pleased to see these renewed. Over 3,500 Post Offices provide access to banking services for over 80 banks and institutions through the Bank@Post deal, including Licensed Post Offices. The Bank@Post deal significantly improved the profitability of Licensed Post Offices, particularly in non-metropolitan areas.
We also welcome the announcement earlier this year that Australia Post will invest an additional $16 million each year into the Licensed Post Office network. The additional funds will support Post Offices across Australia and support the ongoing sustainability of the network.
This investment follows the agreement made with Licensed Post Offices in 2019, which saw extra payments of $55 million to licensees.
Licensees will receive increased Community Service Payments of up to $3,000 per year, and annual minimum payment allowances will lift by $2,500 for metro Licensed Post Offices, $5,000 for rural locations, and $10,000 for remote Post Offices. These payment increases came into effect from 1 March 2022, backdated to 1 January 2022, with other changes taking effect from 1 June 2022.
A re-elected Coalition Government looks forward to continuing its engagement with Licensed Post Offices and ensuring they have a strong voice in Australia Post.
Considering that LPOs own and operate 80% of the Australia Post Network, and are estimated to generate at least 1/3 of the retail income for Australia Post business, payment to 350 senior executives rewarded with $35 Million in bonuses to do their jobs is rather galling for the average Licensee. That is on average $350, 000 for each senior executive on top of their base salary, so no wonder LPOs do not get excited with a $10k payment increase, as there are 2,850 LPOs, truly it is mind-boggling! LPOs also reduce the cost of doing business for Australia Post, as LPOs bear the brunt of these costs, so these numbers are not very appealing!