Hunter politicians are garnering community support to prevent the closure of another local post office.
Newcastle MP Sharon Claydon and Wallsend state counterpart Sonia Hornery launched a joint petition this week calling on Australia Post to spare their Shortland location from shutting down.
It was recently confirmed the company plans on permanently closing the branch on 6 November.
The Elermore Vale, Lambton and Glendale Australia Post sites have already been terminated, following profitability concerns.
Residents are now rallying for the Shortland facility to remain open, as it has long served locals, especially older people, those with disabilities, and small business operators.
The two politicians released a statement declaring the closure of another post office in the region would only place additional strain on other branches, compounding existing service pressures and further diminishing the quality of postal access in the area.
Ms Claydon and Ms Hornery made formal presentations to the Minister for Communications Anika Wells, too, urging her to liaise with Australia Post to reverse the decision or increase mailing services in the western suburbs of Newcastle.
“This post office is not just a place to send mail – it is a vital community hub that many people in the region depend on,” the federal member said.
“Forcing residents to travel to other post offices that are already under strain is simply not good enough.
“It’s unfair and unsustainable.
“I am calling on Australia Post and the government to listen to our community and ensure we don’t lose essential services people rely on every single day.”
Residents can sign a physical petition at the office of Ms Claydon at 427 Hunter Street in Newcastle, the office of Ms Hornery at 67 Nelson Street in Wallsend, or online.
“Our outer suburbs deserve access to the same level of service as if you were in town,” Ms Hornery added.
“Residents rely on post offices not just to send mail; they are vital hubs for many older residents who do not trust online services.
“I’ll always fight for better services in our suburbs… people should not have to travel to large centres to do basic services.”
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