Freedom of Information (FOI)

How to make a request

To access information you must submit an application to the relevant agency. The application must:

  • clearly describe the documents you wish to access
  • state that you are requesting access under the FOI Act
  • include your contact details

We cannot process your request unless all of this information is supplied.

If your request is unclear or too general, you may be asked to re-submit your application. We will tell you what further information is required.

How we respond

  • We will notify you of our decision regarding your request to access information as soon as possible and no later than 30 days after it is received. If you are required to re-submit the application, the 30 day period will be from when the resubmission was received.
  • If your request involves personal or business information relating to a third party, we will consult with them to seek their views on the release of that information. Your application my take longer than 30 days to process if this is required.
  • If we decide not to release some or all of the documents that you want, we will give you reasons for the decision and advise you on how to appeal.
  • We may suggest that you send your application to another agency, or transfer your request as appropriate.

'Commercial Activities' Exemption

Australia Post has an exemption under section 7 of the FOI Act from releasing documents relating to our 'commercial activities'. Any requests for documents which concern Australia Post's 'commercial activities' will be reviewed in accordance with the provisions of the FOI Act and if deemed exempt access will not be granted, you will be informed of the reasons for any decision.

Fees and charges

Recent amendments to the Commonwealth FOI Act, which took effect on 1 November 2010, have abolished application fees.

However, charges may be payable for time spent searching for documents and for photocopying. You will be advised if these charges apply and we will seek your permission to proceed.

Information publication schemeInformation publication scheme logo

In 2010, reforms to the Freedom of Information Act 1982 included the requirement for Australian Government agencies to introduce an information publication scheme (IPS). To comply with these requirements, we have made a broad range of information available on our website. View more information about our information publication scheme.

How to apply for Australia Post documents under FOI

You can make a request yourself or you can authorise another person, such as a solicitor, to make a request on your behalf.

Requests must be submitted in writing to the FOI Officer. This can be done via email [foi@auspost.com.au] or by mail to:

Australia Post
Freedom of Information Officer
Legal Services
GPO Box 1777
Melbourne VIC 3001

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