Australia Post has announced that the cost of stamps will increase from April 3, 2024. Here are the details of the changes and what they mean for you.
Overview of the Changes
Australia Post has notified the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) about the planned price increase for ordinary letters. The ACCC has approved the change, and the only person who could block this is the Minister for Communications. However, the Minister has indicated satisfaction with the ACCC’s findings, noting that the price increases are meant to cover rising costs, not to boost profits.
New Stamp Prices
From April 3, 2024, the cost of sending letters will increase as follows:
- Small letters (up to 250g): Increase from $1.20 to $1.50.
- Large letters (up to 125g): Increase from $2.40 to $3.00.
- Large letters (up to 250g): Increase from $3.60 to $4.50.
- Large letters (up to 500g): Increase from $6.00 to $7.50.
| Letter size | Max. dimensions | Stamps | Previous Cost | New Cost | Concession Price |
| Small letter or postcard (250g) | 130 x 240 x 5mm | 1 | $1.20 | $1.50 | $0.60 |
| Large letter (up to 125g) | 260 x 360 x 20mm E.g. C5, C4, B4 size envelopes | 2 | $2.40 | $3.00 | $1.20 |
| Large letter (up to 250g) | 260 x 360 x 20mm E.g. C5, C4, B4 size envelopes | 3 | $3.60 | $4.50 | $1.80 |
| Large letter (up to 500g) | 260 x 360 x 20mm E.g. C5, C4, B4 size envelopes | 5 | $6.00 | $7.50 | $2.40 |
Christmas Stamps
Christmas stamps will still cost 65 cents and can be used to send Christmas cards in November and December.
Using Old Stamps
You can still use old stamps, but you must ensure the total value covers the new postage cost. For example, for a small letter, you could use two old stamps instead of one new stamp or an old stamp plus a 30-cent stamp.
Concession Stamps
The price of concession stamps will remain at 60 cents. These stamps are available to eligible MyPost concession cardholders and are sold in booklets of five for $3. This price has not changed for 10 years, and you can buy up to 50 stamps a year (10 booklets).
Eligibility for Concession Stamps
- Pensioner Concession Card
- Health Care Card (all types)
- Commonwealth Seniors Health Card
- Department of Veterans’ Affairs Card
- Veterans’ Repatriation Health Card
You can apply for a MyPost concession card at your local post office or download the application form online.
Why the Increase?
The price increase is intended to cover rising costs associated with postal services. This change is not aimed at increasing profits for Australia Post. The ACCC and the Minister for Communications have reviewed and approved the increase based on this reasoning.