Calls Grow for Improved Resourcing at Wallsend Post Office

20 August 2024

Australia Post Office Wallsend — Australia Post Wallsend, Image from Google Maps.

Residents in Wallsend are urging Australia Post to address under-resourcing issues at their local post office, Federal Member for Newcastle, Sharon Claydon has taken the community’s concerns to Parliament this week.

Locals have reported lengthy wait times of over 30 minutes to be served, with some customers turned away due to staff being unable to meet the increased demand. The issue has become a significant inconvenience, particularly for residents of the rapidly expanding suburbs of Maryland, Fletcher, and Minmi, who rely on the post office for essential services.

In a speech delivered in Canberra, Ms Claydon highlighted the strain this is placing on both customers and staff. “One resident told me she often has to leave work early if she wants to be served at the Wallsend post office before closing time. Another noted that only three employees are usually on duty during peak times, leaving them overwhelmed by the high foot traffic.”

The post office, which serves a large and growing region, is an essential service connecting people across the community and beyond. However, the reported lack of adequate staffing is leading to significant frustration, especially during peak hours.

“This lack of resourcing is causing considerable stress to people of all ages in my community,” Ms Claydon said. “I stand with the people of Wallsend and support their calls for a properly resourced post office that meets customer and community needs, both now and into the future.”

The calls for increased resourcing come at a time when other regional areas in the Newcastle and Hunter regions are also facing similar issues. Recently, there have been complaints from residents in suburbs like Mayfield and Cardiff regarding delays and inadequate services at their local postal outlets, pointing to a broader challenge in ensuring consistent service across the region.

Residents have also complained about the closure of Glendale Post Office and there are concers about the planned closure of Marketown at Newcastle West.

Australia Post is yet to respond to the concerns raised by the community and Ms Claydon’s parliamentary address. Locals remain hopeful that these calls will prompt the necessary investment to enhance service standards at the Wallsend post office.