Australians Face Increased Stamp Prices Following ACCC Approval

Australians will soon have to pay more to send letters after the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) approved a significant hike in stamp prices. Starting April 3, the cost of an ordinary small letter stamp will rise from $1.20 to $1.50, reflecting a 25 percent increase. This decision follows months of consultation and a proposal from Australia Post in August 2023, citing declining letter volumes as the primary reason for the change.

The price hike will also affect larger letters. Sending an ordinary large letter weighing less than 125g will cost $3.00, up from $2.40. Large letters weighing between 125g and 250g will see their postage cost rise from $3.60 to $4.50. Despite these increases, some consumers will be spared from the higher costs. Concession card holders will continue to pay 60 cents, and the price of sending Christmas cards will remain at 65 cents.

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ACCC Commissioner Anna Brakey acknowledged the potential negative impact on consumers who frequently send letters, especially considering current cost-of-living pressures. “We acknowledge the concerns raised in our consultation processes about the impact of the price increase on consumers and businesses,” Brakey said.