Lockdown delivers a Mildura postal boom

AUSTRALIA Post has experienced a surge in demand since COVID-19 restrictions came into place.

No one knows this better than Mildura Central Australia Post operator Sue Dawson, who says it’s just as busy as Christmas.

“Parcels have nearly doubled,” she said.

“I think everyone is at home: they’re all on eBay buying things over the internet and there’s been a huge, huge increase.”

To keep up with demand, Mildura Central post office has maintained its regular hours and hired an extra person to help with sorting mail in the morning.

Ms Dawson said it was surprising to see such an influx of parcels but it made sense.

“Obviously people don’t want to go outside — they want to stay home and be safe,” she said.

But an increase in people shopping online has put pressure on Australia Post, with its website indicating there would be delays.

A reduction in domestic flights and international delays is also contributing to longer wait times.

But Ms Dawson does not believe this will deter people from shopping online or sending parcels.

“Until Australians feel like they’re safe to come out and do some shopping, people will stay home,” she said.

“I can’t see it slowing down over the next few weeks.”

Ms Dawson said it was important people were aware of delays and allowed a few extra days for parcels to arrive.

“It is taking a bit longer to go through the system because Australia Post is so busy,” she said.

In the meantime the Mildura Central post office is taking steps to keep customers safe, including putting screens up, enforcing social distancing and offering hand sanitiser.

“Most people are abiding by the rules, so that’s really good,” Ms Dawson said.