Motor vehicle insurance

Do you have commercial vehicle insurance for the vehicle you use for your contract?

Does your insurer know that your vehicle is used for commercial purposes? If you haven't told your insurer that your vehicle is used for delivery or courier purposes, then the insurer may refuse to pay any claim you make.

Is it worth skimping on insurance if you might be unable to make a claim? Are you prepared to throw away money on insurance?

"General Exclusions" exist on almost all policies. The following is taken from the policy wording from a major private vehicle insurer:

If you do not tell us the following we may refuse or reduce a claim, or cancel your Policy:
• you change the way you use your vehicle
• you hire out your vehicle
• your vehicle is not in good order and repair

POAAL's insurance broker, GWS Genco Group, has negotiated a commercial vehicle insurance policy for POAAL's Mail & Parcel Contractor members.

Contact GWS Genco Group today on 1300 881 229 for a quote on commercial vehicle insurance. (Mobile phones should call 03 8420 8700.)

Published on 4 March 2010

Meet 'n Eat in Emerald - 13 March

POAAL is holding a Meet 'n Eat in Emerald for Licensees and Mail Contractors.

Join us for good food and lots of shop talk.

Date: Saturday 13 March 2010

Venue: Discovery Holiday Park, Fairbairn Dam, Lake Maraboon

Time: 6:30pm

Accommodation also available - telephone 07 4982 3677. Visit the Discovery Holiday Park website for more information.

RSVP by Thursday 11 March 2010.

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Published on 1 March 2010

Small Business Fair Dismissal Code

The Small Business Fair Dismissal Code came into effect from 1 July 2009.

The Fair Dismissal Code applies to small business employers with fewer than 15 full-time equivalent employees.

Small business employees cannot make a claim for unfair dismissal in the first 12 months following their engagement. If an employee is dismissed after this period and the employer has followed the Code then the dismissal will be deemed to be fair.

Employees who have been dismissed because of a business downturn or their position is no longer needed cannot bring a claim for unfair dismissal. However, the redundancy needs to be genuine. Re-filling the position with a new employee is not a genuine redundancy.

You can download the Small Business Fair Dismissal Code & Checklist as a PDF from the Fair Work Australia website.

Published on 18 February 2010

Anti-dog device for UK posties

Posties in the UK are being equipped with devices designed to scare off dogs.

The devices release compressed air and makes a hissing sound. It is being trialled by staff in south-east England and could be rolled out nationally if it the incidence of dog attacks drops.

The Royal Mail has revealed that in 2008/09 there were 4,810 attacks on staff, compared with 4,067 the previous year.

UK posties are instructed to never enter a property if there are unrestrained dogs.

Published on 9 February 2010

Tendering for a Mail Contract?

Are you tendering for a mail or parcel contract? Are you researching information to complete your tender?

POAAL is a membership association that offers a range of services to Mail Contractors.

POAAL has published a short guide to some items you should take into consideration when tendering for an Australia Post mail contract.

If you are interested in pricing for public liability insurance, marine cargo insurance, personal accident insurance or PDT (general property) insurance, then please ring the staff at the POAAL National Office on (03) 96544533.

For information on pricing for workers compensation, vehicle insurance, sickness insurance, and a wide range of other insurances, please contact POAAL's insurance broker GWS Genco Group on 1300 881 229 or visit their website at www.gwsins.com.

MCP Group offers a range of services for Mail Contractors, including legal, finance and company advice. They offer excellent service at a price that will suit Mail Contractors' budgets. MCP Group may be able to help you with equipment financing, including vehicle finance. MCP Group also offer a service to set up incorporated companies, as required under the mail contract. For more information, please contact MCP Group on (03) 9620 2001 or visit their website at www.mcpgroup.com.au.

(Please note that POAAL does not give insurance advice. For advice on any insurance products, please contact insurance brokers GWS Genco Group on 1300 881 229.)

Published on 30 January 2010

Limited access to ATO systems

The ATO has advised that it will begin implementing itsnew income tax processing system from today.

This means that many ATO systems will be unavailable from 12.01am EDT Friday, 22 January to 6.00am EDT Wednesday, 27 January 2010.

As a result there will be no access to information through the ATO's portals during this period. Also, ATO call centre staff will only be able to provide limited assistance as they will not have full access to personal or account information.

For further details, visit the ATO website.

Published on 22 January 2010

E-tax 2009 not available from 4 January 2010

The ATO has announced that it is planning to implement a new income tax processing system during January 2010. As a result, e-tax 2009 will not be available from 4 January 2010.

For more information, visit the ATO website.

Published on 24 December 2009

Australia Post announces new MD

Australia Post has announced that Mr Ahmed Fahour has been appointed as Australia Post's new Managing Director, replacing Graeme John.

For Australia Post's press release, visit the Australia Post website.

Published on 23 December 2009

Insurance for Contractors

POAAL offers Mail & Parcel Contractors the insurances they need under their contract through the POAAL master policy insurance policies.

The most common mandatory insurances required by mail contractors are:

• Public Liability Insurance
  
• Personal Accident Insurance
  
• Marine Cargo Insurance (Goods in Transit)
  

Parcel Contractors and MessengerPost courier/contractors can also insure their hand-held scanners through POAAL.

POAAL is a not-for-profit organisation set up to help its members. We do our very best to help you keep your operating costs down. POAAL's group policies are affordable and offer excellent coverage.

If your insurance company isn't looking after you, contact POAAL today and ask for our latest membership and insurance rates. We're here to help you.

Policy wording and summaries of insurance are available from the GWS Genco Group website.

POAAL cannot provide advice or information regarding insurance products. For quotes or information on insurance, including vehicle insurance, directors & officers insurance, sickness insurance and more, please contact POAAL's insurance broker GWS Genco Group on 1300 881 229 (Melbourne callers 8420 8700) or visit their website.

Published on 10 December 2009

Commercial vehicle insurance

Are you paying too much for commercial vehicle insurance?

POAAL’s phones have been running hot with phone calls from Contractors who are unhappy with the high premiums they are paying for vehicle insurance.

Has your vehicle insurance gone up this year? 10%? 20%? 30%?

GWS Genco Group offers commercial vehicle insurance to POAAL members at great rates.

For a quote on vehicle insurance, contact GWS Genco Group on 1300 881 229.

Make sure you have the best deal possible on commercial vehicle insurance – contact GWS Genco Group today for a quote.

GWS Genco Group – 1300 881 229 – www.gwsins.com

Published on 9 December 2009

ATO launches e-newsletter for SMEs

The ATO has created an online newsletter called SME Communicator for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

The newsletter will provide information specific to small and medium enterprises on topics such as tax and superannuation.

To view the current edition and to subscribe, visit the ATO website

Published on 1 December 2009

Adelaide Meet 'n Eat - 2 December

POAAL's SA/NT Branch invites Licensees and Mail & Parcel Contractors to a POAAL Meet 'n Eat session in Adelaide on Wednesday 2 December 2009.

Date: Wednesday 2 December 2009

Time: 7:30pm

Venue: Najjar's Cafe, 21 O'Connell St, North Adelaide

Come along after work for a meal with POAAL State Chairman Chris Campbell and share some shop-talk and a discussion on carded parcels issues.

December is the busiest time of year for us in the postal industry, so here's one night where you won't have to cook dinner! Join with us for some pre-Christmas cheer and have your say on carded articles.

RSVP to the POAAL National Office by Monday 30 November.

Meals are at your own cost. Expenses for attending this meeting, including travel and meal costs, are tax deductible. Keep all receipts and documentation for tax purposes.

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Published on 23 November 2009

Carding parcels to metro and suburban LPOs

Australia Post has stated that it expects parcel volumes to continue to grow. This is putting some strain on the delivery and retail network.

What have you observed regarding parcel volumes? Are you carding more parcels now compared to one year or two years ago? What effect has SafeDrop had on carding? Do the LPOs where you card parcels have storage issues? Do you have issues with parking and unloading? How do you handle bulky parcels? Was there sufficient information in the tender documentation for your mail service regarding carded items?

POAAL is seeking Contractors' input.

Please download and print this survey, complete it and fax it back to POAAL on 03 96544577. Or you can post it to the POAAL National Office, PO Box 190, CARLTON SOUTH VIC 3053.

If there is insufficient space for your response, please attach a separate piece of paper with your response, noting clearly the question number.

Download survey.

Or you can complete the survey online. Click Here to take survey

Thank you for your input.

Published on 16 November 2009

Make sure you're insured at Christmas

POAAL has received phone calls from a number of Contractors in the last week who have discovered that they aren’t meeting the insurance requirements of their mail contract.

Are you meeting all the insurance requirements of your mail contract? Check your contract and make sure that you have all the insurances specified in your contract.

During the weeks leading up to Christmas, many Contractors take on extra employees or subbies. Make sure that they are insured and that they have had a security check performed, as per the terms of your contract with Australia Post.

Contact POAAL on (03) 96544533 if you need to arrange public liability, personal accident, marine cargo, PDT or V-Sort insurance.

For all other insurances, including vehicle insurance and workers comp, contact GWS Genco Group on 1300 881 229.

Published on 12 November 2009

Canberra meeting - Sunday 1 November

POAAL's Bob Chizzoniti will host a Meet 'n Eat on Sunday 1 November in Canberra at the Mawson Club at Mawson, 12noon - 2pm.

The purpose of the meeting is to get more input from Licensees and Mail Contractors on possible solutions for the issues caused by the ever-increasing volume of parcels and the attendant issues. We want suggestions to take to our discussions with AP on this matter.

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RSVP to the POAAL National Office - fax (03) 96544577

Published on 27 October 2009

Small business tax break

The federal government is offering an extra tax deduction to small businesses on plant and equipment purchases. The tax break covers new, tangible, depreciating assets as well as improvements or additions made to existing assets.

The asset must be bought and used or installed within certain timeframes in order to be eligible for the tax break.

If your business has a turnover of less than $2m, then to qualify for the 50% tax break you must buy the asset before 31 December 2009 and install it before 31 December 2010.

For businesses with an annual turnover of $2m or more, the tax break is 30% and applies to assets bought before 30 June 2009 and installed before 30 June 2010.

For more information, visit the ATO website.

Published on 26 October 2009

Senate Estimates transcript now online

The transcript from Australia Post's recent appearance before Senate Estimates is now available online.

Visit the Parliament House website and the transcript for 19 October can be downloaded as a PDF.

Published on 22 October 2009

Adelaide meeting - 15 October

The Shadow Minister for Communications, Senator Nick Minchin, will address the POAAL meeting to be held in Adelaide on Thursday 15 October.

Date: Thursday 15 October

Time: 7:30pm sharp

Venue: Freedom Adelaide Meridien Hotel, 21-37 Melbourne St, North Adelaide

Guest Speaker: Senator Nick Minchin, Shadow Minister for Communications

Senator Minchin's presentation will start at 7:30pm. Licensees and Contractors are invited.

A meeting for Licensees will be held after Senator Minchin's presentation.

RSVP to the POAAL National Office by fax on 03 96544577.

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Published on 24 September 2009

NZ posties get new uniforms

NZ Post has launched new high visibility and breathable postie uniforms.

"The new uniform features a choice of three layers to give Posties the flexibility they need to sort and deliver the mail efficiently and in comfort no matter where they are working or what the elements throw at them. It was designed with Posties and includes some of the features they wanted," said Postal Services chief executive Peter Fenton.

Fabric giving a high level of ultra violet protection has also been incorporated into the shirt material and collars.

The new design will be introduced progressively to 2,300 Posties and 535 Rural Post contractors. It is the first uniform redesign in nine years.

The uniforms were made by Profile Ltd, a subsidiary of EziBuy.

Published on 5 August 2009

CPI for mail contracts

Under Clause 10 of the mail contract, Mail & Parcel Contractors can apply for a review every 12 months of their vehicle operating costs. Australia Post will apply the movement in CPI to the contract's vehicle operating costs.

Australia Post uses statistics collected by the Australian Bureau of Statistics for its CPI calculations. Clause 10 of the mail contract notes that the CPI is the "All Groups Index" from Catalogue Number 6401.0. The figures can be accessed from the ABS website.

The March quarter figures are currently available. June quarter figures will be published on the ABS website on 22 July 2009.

Published on 17 July 2009

Honda CT110 available direct to public

Honda has announced that the the CT110 is now available direct to the public.

The Honda CT110 is available from Honda dealers now, with a Manufacturer's List Price of $3490.

According to figures released this month by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries, the CT110 was the second-highest selling motorbike in Australia in the first half of 2009.

Published on 16 July 2009

Postal News magazine

Postal News is POAAL's full-colour quarterly magazine. It is the best source of information and news for Licensees and Mail & Parcel Contractors.

POAAL is now compiling the third edition of Postal News for 2009.

Postal News is your magazine, so why not have your say? Would you like to be featured in the quarterly "My Post Office" or "My Mail Contract" feature? Or perhaps you have a news item of interest to others. Maybe you've spotted an "Unusual Mailbox" while doing your mail run!

Send your contributions or Letters to the Editor to:

POAAL National Office
PO Box 190
CARLTON SOUTH VIC 3053

Or fax to the POAAL National Office on (03) 96544577.

Published on 10 July 2009

Insurance policy wording available online

Insurance policy wording for all POAAL master policies are available from the GWS Genco website.

Insurance summaries are also available for download.

Published on 7 July 2009

POAAL Membership & Insurance - renew by 14 July

POAAL's insurance brokers, GWS Genco Group, has advised that POAAL members renewing their insurances have a 14-day grace period to renew.

If you haven't yet renewed your POAAL membership and insurance, do so by 14 July to make sure that your insurance is continuous.

Final notices have been mailed. Make sure you're covered - renew your POAAL membership and insurance without delay.

Published on 6 July 2009

Premium funding - payment by instalments

Interested in paying your insurance in instalments? Contractors who are interested in paying your insurances by instalments should contact the POAAL National Office without delay.

Contractors who take more than $700 of insurances (public liability, marine cargo, personal accident, PDT, V-Sort) can apply for premium funding.

An application fee of $50 plus an annual interest fee applies to premium funding. Full details will be sent upon application.

Published on 3 July 2009

Blue Riband service

POAAL has been overwhelmed by the response to our Blue Riband service for Contractors.

Select the Blue Riband option on your form and include $25 for the service. POAAL will send you your receipt, certificates and copies of all your certificates in a display folder. The copies you can give direct to Australia Post, while making a note of the date you return them to Australia Post.

If you have any questions about the Blue Riband service, please contact the POAAL National Office on 03 96544533.

Published on 2 July 2009

Cairns Meet 'n Eat - Sunday 12 July

POAAL is holding an area meeting for Licensees and Contractors in Cairns on Sunday 12 July.

Where: Cairns RSL Club

When: 12 noon to 1:30pm, Sunday 12 July

Join POAAL's Dennis Jenner for a lunch talking shop. Dennis is a POAAL Director and has operated an LPO and a Mail Contract. He also has extensive experience in Australia Post's corporate arm.

Lunch will be available at your own cost.

RSVP to the POAAL National Office.

We look forward to seeing you there!

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Published on 1 July 2009

May Senate Estimates Hearings

Australia Post appeared before the Senate Estimates Committee on 25 May. Representatives from Australia Post were quizzed by Senators on a number of matters, including Australia Post's financial performance, executive pay, and a range of matters impacting on Contractors, Licensees and Franchisees.

For a transcript of proceedings, please visit the Parliament House website, where you can download the Hansard from 25 May 2009 as a PDF.

Published on 28 May 2009

POAAL meets with Shadow Minister, Senator Minchin

Senator Nick Minchin, the Shadow Minister for Communications, visited the POAAL National Office in Melbourne earlier this month. He and his adviser showed a keen interest in the business both of the Association and its members.

Senator Minchin served as Minister for Finance in the previous federal government, and as such has some experience dealing with Australia Post.

POAAL briefed Senator Minchin on matters of relevance to Licensees, Franchisees and Mail Contractors. Senator Minchin showed particular interest in product availability and margins for Licensees/Franchisees as well as transfer of business to corporate outlets. He recognises the role played in the wider postal network by Licensees, Agents, Franchisees and Contractors, and requested that he continue to be kept informed of industry matters impacting on POAAL members.

Published on 27 May 2009

Workers Compensation

Included with Licensees' and Contractors' membership renewal forms was information on Workers Compensation Insurance.

GWS Genco Group is able to assist you in placing workers compensation insurance by obtaining the most competitive legislation where State legislations permit and by dealing with insurers who understand your business.

For more information, please contact GWS Genco Group on 1300 881 229.

Published on 26 May 2009

POAAL Membership & Insurance 2009/2010 - your chance to win big!

It's on again! GWS Genco Group has donated a $1000 fuel voucher as part of the membership and insurance fuel promotion.

Licensees and Contractors who pay POAAL membership and public liability or personal accident insurance by 15 June 2009 will go into the draw to win a $1000 fuel voucher courtesy of insurance brokers GWS Genco Group.

Just pay your POAAL membership and insurance by 15 June 2009.

You'll receive your 2009/2010 POAAL membership and insurance form in the mail soon.

GWS Genco Group - www.gwsins.com.au/post

Published on 22 May 2009

Small business tax break

The Federal Government has introduced a $2.7 billion Small Business and General Business Tax Break to boost business investment.

Who can claim the tax break?

To benefit from the tax break, a small business must have a turnover of $2 million a year or less.

What does the tax break mean for your small business?

Small businesses will be able to claim a bonus deduction of 30 per cent for eligible assets costing $1000 or more that they:

• Acquire from 13 December 2008 to 30 June 2009, or start to construct between these times; and
  
• Have installed ready for use by 30 June 2010.
  

Small businesses will be able to claim a bonus deduction of 10 per cent foreligible assets costing $1000 or more that they:

• Acquire from 1 July 2009 to 31 December 2009, or start to construct between these times; and
  
• Have installed ready for use by 31 December 2010.
  

Which assets are eligible?

Assets eligible for the allowance are new tangible depreciating assets and new expenditure on existing assets used in carrying on a business for which a deduction is available under the core provisions of Division 40 (Capital Allowances) of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997.

How can I claim the tax break?

The deduction will be available to the taxpayer who is entitled to the capital allowance deduction in respect of the asset. The deduction is on top of the usual capital allowance deduction claimable for the asset as part of your income tax return.

The deduction is claimable in the income year in which the asset is installed and ready for use.

For more information, visit the Treasury website.

Published on 22 April 2009

Minister to launch POAAL Benevolent Fund

POAAL is pleased to announce that the Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy, will officially launch the POAAL Benevolent Fund on Good Friday.

Senator Conroy is the Federal Minister with responsibility for Australia Post.

The Official Launch of the Benevolent Fund will take place at a function at the Marriott Hotel on Friday 10 April. The function commences at 6pm and is open to POAAL members and their guests.

2009 is POAAL's 70th anniversary year and this seems an appropriate way to mark the occasion.

To book tickets for this function, please contact the POAAL National Office.

Published on 17 March 2009

OH&S - Australia Post owned mail facilities

Contractors who sort at Australia Post owned mail facilities (including corporate post offices, mail centres and delivery centres) are reminded that, in the event of any OH&S concerns at the facility, the local Australia Post manager should be contacted in the first instance.

If the matter is not resolved, Contractors may wish to raise the matter with State Contracts Management, or contact Comcare.

Comcare is the federal government agency responsible for workplace safety, rehabilitation and compensation at Australia Post facilities. Comcare handles complaints against Australia Post with regard to workplace health and safety.

Contractors may contact Comcare from anywhere in Australia on 1300 366 979 or visit the Comcare website at: http://www.comcare.gov.au/

Published on 16 March 2009

POAAL National Conference - cancelled

POAAL has decided to not to proceed with this year's National Conference scheduled to be held in Melbourne over Easter.

The impact of natural disasters, including the Victorian bushfires and extensive flooding in Queensland and Northern NSW, combined with the current economic uncertainty has led to calls by Licensees, Contractors and the POAAL Board to spend the funds in more practical ways to help those in need.

POAAL has been overwhelmed by the offers of help from Licensees and Mail Contractors who have been distressed at the plight of their colleagues affected by natural disaster. The feeling among members, confirmed by our Board, was that we should be helping our members in distress at this time.

It is with this in mind that POAAL has decided to set up a Benevolent Fund to help Licensees and Contractors in times of severe financial hardship such as these. The Fund will be kick-started by the money which POAAL would have provided for the Conference and the deposit refunded by the Grand Hyatt Melbourne. More details of the Fund will be circulated when fully developed, and Licensees and Contractors will be able to contribute in this way to assist their colleagues in need now and in the future.

For those members who will be in Melbourne at Easter, we will proceed with the Welcome Reception on the night of Friday 10 April, a "meet the Board" session on the Saturday at the Grand Hyatt plus the Anniversary Dinner on the night of Saturday 11 April. A collection will be taken at the Dinner for the Fund.

If you want to attend any of these events and you have not yet booked, please contact the POAAL National Office.

All those who had registered for the Conference have been contacted personally, and we regret any inconvenience to them.

Any queries should be directed to the POAAL National Office on (03) 9654 4533.

Published on 15 March 2009

Victorian bushfires

Many POAAL members, both Licensees and Mail Contractors, have been affected by the bushfires in Victoria. Business premises have been razed, homes have been destroyed, livelihoods put in doubt.

Our thoughts and prayers are with our colleagues who have suffered loss due to the disastrous February fires.

We have been liaising with Australia Post and warmly support the Managing Director's offer of practical immediate help by Australia Post and some form of income maintenance for those of our colleagues most severely hit by this disaster.

To those who need assistance, please do not hesitate to contact the POAAL National Office.

Published on 9 February 2009

Mebourne meet 'n eat - 4 December

Join us for a Meet 'n Eat in Melbourne on Thursday 4 December.

We've booked a table at the Great Northern Hotel in Rathdowne St, Carlton North, for an end-of-year get-together.

Venue: Great Northern Hotel, 644 Rathdowne St, Carlton North

Date: Thursday 4 December 2008

Time: 7pm start

Branch Chairman David Rees will host a meeting for all POAAL members. We'll meet in the Bistro for a relaxed evening.

RSVP to the POAAL National Office by Wednesday 3 December. You must RSVP if you wish to attend, so that we can advise the venue of numbers.

We look forward to seeing you then!

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Nb: Costs for attending this meeting, including travel and any meal, are a tax deduction. Keep all relevant receipts for taxation purposes.

Published on 21 November 2008

Free employee record keeping templates

Interactive templates are available from the Workplace Ombudsman to help small businesses better manage their time and wages record keeping and payslip obligations under Australia's workplace relations laws.

The free templates can be downloaded from the Workplace Ombudsman website and are recommended best practice models.

"If you employ workers under Commonwealth workplace relations laws you are legally required to keep accurate and complete time and wages records and to issue pay slips to every worker," said Workplace Ombudsman Nicholas Wilson.

"These obligations exist to ensure workers receive their correct wages and entitlements, and also protect both you and your employee if a compaint or dispute arises."

"As the independent watchdog, it's our job to ensure the rights and obligations of both workers and employers are understood and enforced fairly."

The Workplace Ombudsman website has templates and information for managing the following:
• Time and wages records;
• Employee details;
• Leave records; and
• Pay slips.

Templates can be saved on your computer or printed for filing.

Visit the Workplace Ombudsman small business portal at: www.wo.gov.au/smallbusiness

Information is also available by calling the Workplace Ombudsman help line on 1300 724 200.

Published on 5 September 2008

Whistleblowing submission now online

POAAL's submission to the recent Parliamentary Inquiry into whistleblowing protections within the Australian Government public sector is now available online.

POAAL was also called to appear before the House Standing Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs to discuss issues raised in the POAAL submission.

The submission can be downloaded as a PDF from the Parliament House website.

Published on 4 September 2008

Australia Post proposes changes to fuel price reviews

Australia Post has sent correspondence to all Contractors regarding changes to the way Australia Post will deal with fuel price reviews.

Australia Post is offering to reduce the threshold for fuel price reviews from 7% to 5%. This is a small positive step for Contractors.

Australia Post is also offering to use fuel indices for diesel and LPG (as appropriate) when performing fuel price reviews. This is long overdue, and POAAL is pleased that Australia Post has heeded POAAL's calls for fair dealings for Contractors who use diesel. As price rises for diesel outstripped price rises for ULP over recent years, Contractors who use diesel have been severely disadvantaged by Australia Post's fuel price review system.

POAAL's lobbying on behalf of Contractors has brought results over the years. During recent meetings with Federal MPs in Canberra, POAAL continued to push for automated monthly fuel price reviews. POAAL has also met with the Minister for Communications, Senator Stephen Conroy, to discuss the benefits of automated fuel price reviews.

Automated reviews would provide fairness and transparency, while assisting Australia Post in managing its costs.

POAAL will continue to work hard on behalf of Contractors.

Published on 2 September 2008

POAAL meets with Minister for Communications

POAAL representatives today met with Senator Conroy, the Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, to discuss issues affecting POAAL's Licensee, Mail Contractor and Franchisee members.

Matters discussed included:

• Automated monthly fuel price variations for Mail & Parcel Contractors
  
• AUSTRAC reporting and compliance
  
• Increase in the base postage rate
  
• Bank@Post
  
• Floor plans
  
• Australia Post's corporate and social responsibility strategy
  

above: Senator Conroy (centre) with POAAL Victorian State Chairman David Rees and CEO Ian Kerr

Published on 18 August 2008

Adelaide Contractors meeting - 24 August

A meeting for Mail & Parcel Contractors will be held in Adelaide on Sunday 24 August.

Date: Sunday 24 August

Time: 10:30am - 12noon

Venue: Freedom Adelaide Meridien Hotel, 21-37 Melbourne St, North Adelaide

POAAL's Dennis Jenner will be present to discuss Mail Contractor issues and answer your questions.

Points to be discussed include:
• Fuel prices
• Fuel price reviews
• Reducing operating costs
• Unaddressed mail

Bring a copy of your contract and your tender documentation.

Come along and hear what initiatives POAAL has undertaken to help Contractors.

Bring your Mail & Parcel Contractor colleagues - all welcome!

This meeting is free to financial POAAL members. There will be a charge of $22 for unfinancial members.

If possible, please advise the POAAL National Office if you will be attending.

Note: Expenses for attending this meeting, including travel and meal costs, are tax deductible. Keep all receipts and documentation for tax purposes.

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Published on 12 August 2008

Fuel costs

The major issue facing Mail & Parcel Contractors across Australia is high fuel costs. Prices may have eased slightly recently, but this relief is likely to be only temporary. Contractors all over Australia have asked POAAL to lobby for the introduction of automated monthly fuel price reviews.

The current system for Clause 10 fuel price reviews does not provide the flexibility needed to help Contractors meet their day-to-day fuel costs. Waiting three months for the fuel price to vary by an average 7% is excessive and puts Contractors under too much financial pressure.

POAAL is lobbying for the introduction of automated monthly fuel price reviews. This way, Australia Post would vary the fuel cost component of the contract fee every month, according to the average monthly fuel price variation. No more paperwork, no waiting for Australia Post to approve a Clause 10 review. The system would be simple and fair.

Lobbying - you can help

POAAL has prepared a pro forma letter to the Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy. You can use this letter as the bases for your own letter to the Minister, pushing for the introduction of automated fuel price reviews.

Download: Pro forma letter (PDF 90kb)

POAAL will be meeting with the Minister very soon - please add your support.

Published on 8 August 2008

Posties to trial electric bikes

It has been reported today that Australia Post will trial electric delivery bikes in Melbourne and Sydney.

Very few details have been released by Australia Post.

The results of Australia Post's trial of a hybrid-powered truck have not been released.

Published on 5 August 2008

ACCC issues final decision on postage rises

The ACCC today issued its final decision not to object to Australia Post's application to increase the basic rate of postage.

Australia Post has proposed to increase the cost of basic domestic postage from 50c to 55c.

The next stage in the process is for Australia Post to apply to the Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy for approval. POAAL has today written to the Minister, urging him to approve the increase.

The Chairman of the ACCC, Graeme Samuel, said that the ACCC has established "a framework for future price notifications that will encourage Australia Post to continue to reduce costs, improve productivity, and provide more certainty for Australia Post's customers."

Australia Post has proposed to bring the price rise into effect on 15 September 2008. Prices will also rise for large letters as well as small and large presort bulk mail.

A flow-on effect will be the welcome increase in some payments to Licensees.

Published on 31 July 2008

Inquiry into Trade Practices Legislation

POAAL made a submission to the inquiry into the Trade Practices Legislation Amendment Bill 2008 by the Senate Economics Committee.

POAAL's submission is now available to view or download as a PDF from the Parliament House website.

Published on 30 July 2008

Shadow Minister to address Melbourne meeting

Bruce Billson, the Shadow Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, has accepted our invitation to attend POAAL's Victorian Branch meeting in Melbourne on 14 August.

The Shadow Minister (pictured at left), whose shadow portfolio includes Australia Post, will make a presentation and will then take questions from members.

Licensees and Mail & Parcel Contractors are invited to attend.

Date: Thursday 14 August, 2008

Time: 7:15pm for 7:30pm sharp

Venue: Bentleigh Club, Yawla St, Bentleigh (Melway Ref 68 B11)

A Mail & Parcel Contractor meeting will precede Mr Billson's presentation. There will also be a discussion of local and national LPO issues following Mr Billson's presentation.

This meeting is free to 2008/09 financial POAAL members. A charge of $33 will apply to unfinancial POAAL members. Seating is limited and preference will be given to current financial POAAL members.

RSVP to the POAAL National Office by Monday 11 August.

Meals are available at the Club Bistro prior to the meeting.

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Published on 25 July 2008

Sydney Contractors meeting - Saturday 2 August

A meeting for Mail & Parcel Contractors will be held in Sydney on Saturday 2 August. All Australia Post contractors are welcome!

Date: Saturday 2 August 2008

Time: 2pm - 4pm

Venue: Ramsgate RSL - Kokoda Room, Chuter Ave, Ramsgate

POAAL CEO Ian Kerr and a POAAL Board Member will be on hand to lead the discussion and to update Contractors on national issues, in particular fuel prices.

Bring along a copy of your contract and any questions you may have. MessengerPost contractors - make sure you bring a copy of your contract and any documentation relating to fuel.

Invite your Contractor colleagues - all welcome.

Published on 23 July 2008

Dubbo meeting for Contractors

Contractors are invited to attend a POAAL meeting in Dubbo in August.

Date: Sunday 3 August, 2008

Time: 10:30am to 12 noon

Venue: Dubbo RSL Club, cnr Brisbane and Wingewarra Sts, Dubbo

Discussion topics will include:
• Fuel prices
• Contract matters
• Managing operating costs

POAAL CEO Ian Kerr will be on hand to lead the discussion and to update Contractors on national issues.

The meeting will start at 10:30am and then continue with lunch in the bistro. (Meals at members' own cost.)

Bring along a copy of your contract - and any questions you may have!

Invite your Contractor colleagues - all welcome.

If possible, please advise the POAAL National Office if you will be attending.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Expenses for attending this meeting, including costs travelling to and fro, and any meal, are tax deductible. Keep all receipts and documentation for tax purposes.

Published on 21 July 2008

FedEx trials hybrid vehicles

FedEx is testing 10 hybrid electric vehicles on delivery routes in Italy and France.

The hybrid vans are manufactured by Italian commercial vehicle manufacturer Iveco and will be trialled on routes between Milan and Turin. FedEx now has over 100 hybrid vehicles in service worldwide.

In May last year Australia Post announced a trial of a hybrid diesel/electric powered delivery truck. Australia Post has yet to release the results of the trial.

Published on 17 July 2008

Fuel inquiry

The Federal Government has set up a Committee to inquire into fuel prices.

The Committee has called for submissions. POAAL will be making a submission to the inquiry.

Here's your chance to have your say. Send POAAL your thoughts and comments on the impact of rising fuel prices.

Send your thoughts, observations and suggestions to POAAL by 15 August at:

POAAL
PO Box 190
CARLTON SOUTH VIC 3053

Or by fax to: 03 96544577

Published on 14 July 2008

Application for Increase in Basic Domestic Postage Rate

In June, the ACCC released its preliminary view on Australia Post's application for an increase in the basic domestic postage rate.

POAAL has made another submission to the ACCC, this time in response to the ACCC's preliminary view.

POAAL's submission, along with Australia Post's submission, can be found at the ACCC website.

Published on 11 July 2008

Hobart meeting for Contractors

POAAL will be holding a meeting for Mail & Parcel Contractors in Hobart on Sunday 27 July.

Date: Sunday 27 July 2008

Time: 12 noon

Venue: Cooley's Hotel, 45 Main Rd, Moonah

• Concerned about fuel prices?
• Questions about your contract?
• Interested in reducing your operating costs?

We'll meet for lunch at 12 noon, followed by an informal meeting. Bring a copy of your contract and any questions you may have!

To RSVP, please phone POAAL's local Hobart contact. (We need to advise the Hotel of numbers attending.)

Meals are at members' own cost.

Note: Expenses for atending this meeting, including costs travelling to and fro, and any meal, are a tax deduction. Keep all receipts and documentation for tax purposes.

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Published on 9 July 2008

Fuel Prices

Every Contractor is feeling the squeeze due to rising fuel prices.

POAAL is doing its bit to help by ramping up its lobbying on behalf of Contractors.

Your help is needed in making POAAL's lobbying effective. POAAL is focussing on fuel price reviews and taxation relief as two significant contributors to financial hardship for Contractors.

Send your thoughts, observations and suggestions to POAAL at:

POAAL
PO Box 190
CARLTON SOUTH VIC 3053

Or by fax to: 03 96544577

Published on 8 July 2008

Delivery ID checks in Germany

DHL Germany has announced a new add-on service providing identity and age verification for its domestic parcels.

It is anticipated that this service will be used by senders of valuable or sensitive goods.

Upon delivery, the driver checks the recipient's ID against the information provided by the sender and record any relevant information in the hand-held scanner. Age verification can also be performed.

No information is available on proposed pricing.

DHL Germany has developed the new service in response to the growth in onlinen shopping.

Published on 3 July 2008

Fuel cell car being tested in Japan

DHL Japan has been trialling a fuel cell vehicle as part of an environmental initiative.

The test vehicle is modelled on the Mercedes Benz A Class and is powered by compressed hydrogen. DHL has announced that the vehicle has travelled about 10,000km in the last two years.

The results of the trial are being used by the vehicle manufacturer to improve its fuel cell powered vehicles.

Published on 2 July 2008

Clause 10 review pro forma letter

POAAL has prepared a pro forma letter for Contractors to use when applying for a Clause 10 review of fuel costs.

Contractors may use the pro forma letter as a guide for writing to Australia Post to apply for a review of fuel costs under Clause 10 of the mail contract.

At Senate Estimates hearings last year, Australia Post gave a commitment to allow Contractors access to AP's fuel price data. This allows Contractors to calculate if and when to apply for a fuel price review under the terms of the mail contract.

Clause 10 pro forma letter (PDF 122Kb)

Published on 26 June 2008

Application for Increase in Basic Domestic Postage Rate

As previously advised, POAAL made a submission to the ACCC supporting Australia Post's application for an increase in the basic postage rate of 50c.

The ACCC has now released its preliminary view and we can report that the ACCC supports the application for an increase.

POAAL will be making a further submission to the ACCC following the release of the its preliminary view.

The ACCC website contains Australia Post's original application, the POAAL submission, Australia Post's response and the ACCC Preliminary View.

Published on 24 June 2008

Tasmanian Contractor meeting - this Sunday

A Meet 'n Eat for Mail & Parcel Contractors will be held in Devonport this Sunday.

Date: Sunday 22 June 2008

Time: 10:30am start followed by lunch

Venue: Molly Malone's, 34 Best Street, Devonport

Join with other Mail & Parcel Contractors for a coffee or tea (or hair of the dog!) at 10:30am followed by a pub lunch.

Please phone the POAAL National Office on 96544533 if you are able to attend. We need to advise the pub of numbers.

We look forward to seeing you there!

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Published on 18 June 2008

Renew your insurance by 30 June 2008

POAAL master policy insurances, including public liability, personal accident, marine cargo and PDT insurance, expire on 1 July 2009.

To ensure that you and your mail contract are covered, renew your POAAL membership and insurance by 30 June 2008.

Return your form and payment early to ensure continuity of coverage.

Published on 17 June 2008

Security checks for subbies and employees

POAAL wrote to Australia Post regarding the slow turnaround for security checks for subcontractors and employees. Contractors had complained to POAAL that AP was taking longer than usual to process security checks for prospective subbies and staff, which in some cases resulted in those prospective subbies/staff finding employment elsewhere rather than waiting for the security check to be completed.

AP has responded to POAAL, noting that it was aware of some delays but that in its opinion there were now no delays to security checks.

AP has also stated that where security checks are subject to an undue delay it would allow the subbie/employee to commence pending the completed security check.

Published on 28 May 2008

Pay your insurance by instalments

Want to pay your insurance monthly?

Mail Contractors who take out insurances totalling over $700 with GWS Genco Group can apply to pay in monthly instalments.

Conditions and charges apply.

To apply, complete your POAAL membership form, noting the insurances you wish to take, and return the form along with your POAAL membership fee to the POAAL National Office.

If you have any queries, please contact the POAAL National Office by phone on (03) 96544533.

Published on 23 May 2008

World Postal Survey

This sixth World Postal Survey is now open. POAAL members are invited to take part and voice their opinions on the health and state of the postal world.

The survey has become a regular feature on the annual postal calendar as a barometer of confidence in the postal industry.

The World Postal Survey can be completed online.

Survey results will be announced in October.

Published on 13 May 2008

Tasmanian Contractors meeting - postponed

The POAAL meeting for Mail Contractors has been postponed.

The new date and meeting details will be posted soon.

Published on 7 May 2008

Mackay Meet 'n Eat, 11 May

POAAL's Queensland Branch Chairman, Jenny Patroni, invites Licensees and Mail & Parcel Contractors to join her at a Meet 'n Eat function in Mackay.

Date: Saturday 11 May 2008

Time: 1pm

Venue: Grand Mercure Suites, 9 Gregory St, Mackay

Treat yourself (and your partner) to a tax-deductible lunch. There will be good food and lots of shop talk.

RSVP by 9am Thursday 8 May to the POAAL National Office by fax on 03 96544577 or by phone on 03 96544533.

For more details, please ring Jenny on 4950 3753.

Published on 23 April 2008

Driver training - Melbourne, 30 April

Think you're a good driver?

POAAL, in conjunction with DECA Driver Training, is launching a new programme to help Mail & Parcel Contractors, and Licensees who transport mail, to improve their driving skills.

Learn how to improve your driving skills, reduce wear and tear on your vehicle, and save money!

This seminar is the first part of a two-part pilot training programme.

The first seminar is a "theory" session and is free to all POAAL members. Come along to this session on Wednesday 30 April to find out more. This first session will be treated as a pilot training course for POAAL members and there will be four complimentary places available to four of the POAAL members who complete the "theory" session.

Date: Wednesday 30 April 2008

Venue: South Oakleigh Club, Victor Rd, East Bentleigh. Melway ref 78 D4

Time: 5:30pm to 7:15pm

POAAL will provide pizza for all attendees, but you must RSVP if you are attending the training session.

Places are limited. RSVP by phoning the POAAL National Office by phone on 96544533 or by fax on 96544577.

The second part of the driver training will be a "hand-on" session at DECA's training track where you and your vehicle will be put through your paces by qualified driver trainers!

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Published on 16 April 2008

Highlights of POAAL Conference Day 2

A visit to the State Parcel Centre and Australia Post's role in protecting Australia's borders were two of the highlights of Day 2 of the POAAL Conference.

Delegates visited two local LPOs prior to assembling at the State Parcel Centre in Kings Meadows for a guided tour. The tour covered not only operational aspects of the Centre but also some of the initiatives being undertaken locally to improve mail delivery performance. There was also an opportunity for delegates to put a pair of ULDs to good use!

A representative from AQIS gave a detailed presentation on the handling of inward international mail in Australia. Licensees and Contractors were given tips on how to identify suspicious mail items.

The Conference was a great success, and Delegates left with new business ideas, new business contacts, and new friends.

Published on 23 March 2008

Highlights of POAAL Conference Day 1

ACCC Small Business Commissioner John Martin and Postal Industry Ombudsman Prof John McMillan were two of the keynote speakers at day 1 of the POAAL Conference in Launceston.

Commissioner Martin spoke on a range of topics, including amendments to the disclosure provisions of the Franchising Code of Conduct, the ACCC's role in the regulation of AP's reserved services and its role in monitoring AP.

Professor McMillan outlined the role of the Postal Industry Ombudsman in helping resolve disputes. Some of the major causes for complaint were discussed. Prof McMillan noted that the most painful complaints are those that are badly handled and that good complaint handling is good business sense.

above: Geoff Hyland (middle) and Paul Letcher (right) with some Licensees from Queensland at the POAAL Conference

Paul Letcher from Australia Post spoke on some of AP's initiatives to source new and diverse income streams.

Sharon Johnston, from Corporate Property, spoke on some of the problems and solutions available to Licensees who may be negotiating leases.

In workshops for Contractors held today, two of the major issues raised were increasing fuel costs and the inconsistency of implementation of the rural numbering scheme.

The Conference closes tomorrow

Published on 22 March 2008

POAAL Conference kicks off in style

The 2008 POAAL Conference commenced this evening with an informal welcome reception at the Tasmanian Design Centre.

Delegates, exhibitors and guest speakers mingled amongst Tasmanian crafted works of art and design.

The Reception & Welcome function gave delegates an opportunity to meet and network in an informal setting. Many conference exhibitors were present, along with some of the conference's guest speakers.

above: The POAAL Conference Reception & Welcome Function

The Conference proper commences on Saturday 22 March, with a presentation from ACCC Small Business Commissioner John Martin.

Other speakers on day 1 of the Conference include Postal Industry Ombudsman Prof John McMillan, property consultant Sharon Johnston, superannuation and investment expert Ben Coxen and senior Australia Post representatives.

Published on 21 March 2008

Visit to State Parcel Centre confirmed

A feature of Day 2 of the POAAL Conference will be the site visits. POAAL is pleased to announce that Australia Post has agreed to open up the State Parcel Centre for Conference Delegates.

Delegates will also get to see close-up the operations of local LPOs.

There's still time to register for the POAAL Conference in Launceston - a great tax-deductible getaway at Easter!

Published on 11 March 2008

POAAL Conference - register today!

It's not too late to book for the POAAL mini Conference in Launceston, Tasmania on 22/23 March 2008.

Why come to a POAAL Conference?

POAAL Conferences showcase some fine speakers. This year we have brought together some big-hitters: The ACCC Commissioner for Small Business will speak on Australia Post's application for an increase in the basic domestic postage rate and TPA matters; and the Postal Industry Ombudsman will speak on complaints about postal services.

And our speakers will cover some hot topics: Sharon Johnston from Corporate Property will talk on commercial leases; and there will be a panel discussion on Selling Your LPO.

As always, we have speakers who can help you prepare for the future: this year we have speakers from Investor Financial Planning to talk on superannuation and investment matters.

And since we all work in the postal industry, there will be some industry-specific speakers, including senior representatives from Australia Post, a speaker from Australian Quarantine (AQIS), and site visits to local postal facilities.

This is a tax deductible conference, so why not take a real break at Easter and travel to Launceston and meet people who are in the same line of business and who understand why you work as hard as you do!

There will be giveaways, scrumptious food and plenty of opportunities to talk with other delegates, speakers and exhibitors.

Register online at www.poaal.com.au/conference, or ring/fax POAAL for details to be faxed or mailed to you.

See you in Launceston!

Published on 3 March 2008

POAAL meets with Shadow Minister for Small Business

POAAL representatives today met with the Shadow Minister for Small Business, Steven Ciobo MP, at the POAAL National Office.

The Shadow Minister was given an overview of the role of Licensees and Mail & Parcel Contractors and their small business needs. He is sympathetic to the issues facing small business owners, such as staffing and regulatory requirements.

He indicated that he is prepared to attend a POAAL Branch meeting and meet small business owners face-to-face.

above: Shadow Minister for Small Business, Steven Ciobo (right) pictured with POAAL CEO Ian Kerr.

Published on 27 February 2008

More speakers confirmed for POAAL Conference

POAAL is pleased to announce more guest speakers at the POAAL Conference being held in Launceston, Tasmania, on 22 & 23 March.

New guest speakers include:

• A representative from Australian Quarantine
  
• An expert in superannuation and investment from Investor Financial Planning
  
• Australia Post has confirmed that two senior managers will also be present
  

Cheap flights to Tasmania are still available - book today for a tax-deductible break.

Improve your business, hear some great speakers, meet Licensees and Contractors from all over Australia and ask questions of the experts.

And don't forget the fabulous POAAL Conference Dinner - undoubtedly a Conference highlight! This year the theme is the Glamorous 1940s. Hit the internet for some costume ideas!

You can complete your delegate registration online today - or fill in the form which was enclosed with the current edition of Postal News.

See you in Launceston at Easter!

Published on 26 February 2008

POAAL Conference - PIO confirmed

Postal Industry Ombudsman, Professor John McMillan, has been confirmed as one of the speakers at the POAAL Conference in Launceston, Tasmania, at Easter.

Professor McMillan joins other great speakers, including ACCC Small Business Commissioner John Martin and Sharon Johnson from Corporate Property.

The POAAL Conference will be held on 22 & 23 March in Launceston. Cheap flights to Tasmania are still available - book today for a tax-deductible break.

Improve your business, hear some great speakers, meet Licensees from all over Australia, see a range of retail products for your business and ask questions of the experts.

And don't forget the fabulous POAAL Conference Dinner - undoubtedly a Conference highlight!

You can complete your delegate registration online today - or fill in the form which was enclosed with the current edition of Postal News.

See you in Launceston at Easter!

Published on 18 February 2008

Meeting with new Minister for Communications

POAAL national representatives met today with the new Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy. Senator Conroy was re-briefed on the role of Licensees, Agents and Contractors and current matters of interest to them.

During his time as Shadow Minister for Communications, Senator Conroy was vocal in his commitment and interest in our members' business interests, and during our meeting with him today he reaffirmed his continuing interest in their circumstances now that he is Minister for Communications. POAAL welcomes this continuing commitment and will keep in regular contact with the Minister and his advisers, briefing them on matters pertinent to our members.

POAAL has invited the Minister to make a presentation at our national mini conference which is to be held over Easter in Tasmania, and he expressed his desire to attend, subject to other Ministerial commitments which may take priority. Licensees and Contractors who will be delegates at the conference would welcome the opportunity to meet and hear from the Minister, in particular his intentions regarding Australia Post and its LPO and contractor arms.

above: Minister for Communications Stephen Conroy, centre, pictured with POAAL CEO Ian Kerr (left) and POAAL Director Dennis Jenner.

Published on 8 February 2008

Contractors meeting - Sale, 20 February

POAAL will hold a meeting for Mail & Parcel Contractors in Sale on Wednesday 20 February.

Date: Wednesday 20 February 2008

Time: 5pm - 6:30pm

Venue: Sale Community Sports Club, Cnr Palmerston & Cunningham Sts, Sale

David Rees will host this meeting. David is a Mail Contractor and POAAL Victorian Branch Chairman. He owns an LPO and has also spent many years working for AP.

Here's your chance to talk face-to-face with David, meet other Contractors and share experiences.

This meeting is free to POAAL members.

If possible, RSVP to the POAAL National Office by fax on 96544577 or by phone on 96544533 to confirm your place.

Meals will be available from the Club's bistro.

Note: Expenses for attending this meeting, including costs travelling to and fro and the meal, are a tax deduction. Keep all receipts and documentation for tax purposes.

Published on 6 February 2008

Are you tendering for a mail contract?

Are you tendering for a mail or parcel contract?

POAAL is a membership association that offers a range of services to Mail Contractors.

POAAL has published a short guide to some items you should take into consideration when tendering for an Australia Post mail contract.

If you are interested in pricing for public liability insurance, marine cargo insurance, personal accident insurance or PDT (general property) insurance, then please ring the staff at the POAAL National Office on (03) 96544533.

For information on pricing for workers compensation, vehicle insurance, sickness insurance, and a wide range of other insurances, please contact POAAL's insurance broker GWS Genco Group on 1300 881 229 or visit their website at www.gwsins.com.

MCP Group offers a range of services for Mail Contractors, including legal, finance and company advice. They offer excellent service at a price that will suit Mail Contractors' budgets. MCP Group may be able to help you with equipment financing, including vehicle finance. MCP Group also offer a service to set up incorporated companies, as required under the mail contract. For more information, please contact MCP Group on (03) 9620 2001 or visit their website at www.mcpgroup.com.au.

(Please note that POAAL does not give insurance advice. For advice on any insurance products, please contact insurance brokers GWS Genco Group on 1300 881 229.)

Published on 5 February 2008

Contractors meeting - Melbourne, 22 February

POAAL will hold a meeting for Mail & Parcel Contractors in Melbourne on Friday 22 February. Join us for an end-of-week get-together at the Bentleigh Club.

Date: Friday 22 February 2008

Time: 5pm - 6:30pm

Venue: Bentleigh Club, Yawla St, Bentleigh (Melway Ref 68 B11)

David Rees will host this meeting. David is a Mail Contractor and POAAL Victorian Branch Chairman. He owns an LPO and has also spent many years working for AP. POAAL's CEO will also be present and will give an update on National issues.

Here's your chance to talk face-to-face with David, meet other Contractors and share experiences.

This meeting is free to POAAL members.

If possible, RSVP to the POAAL National Office by fax on 96544577 or by phone on 96544533 to confirm your place.

Meals will be available from the Club's bistro.

Note: Expenses for attending this meeting, including costs travelling to and fro and the meal, are a tax deduction. Keep all receipts and documentation for tax purposes.

Published on 4 February 2008

2008 Conference accommodation

POAAL's 2008 Conference will be held in Launceston, Tasmania, over Easter. (22 & 23 March.)

POAAL has negotiated a special accommodation rate at the Hotel Grand Chancellor, located in the heart of Launceston.

To take advantage of the great Conference rate, download the booking form, complete, and forward to the Hotel Grand Chancellor by fax or by email. All the details are on the booking form.

Hotel Grand Chancellor accommodation booking form (Word document) 42kB

Published on 14 January 2008

2008 Conference announced!

Due to popular demand, POAAL will hold a Conference in Launceston at Easter this year - that's 22 & 23 March, 2008.

Book your travel and accommodation early to take advantage of the best rates available. Delegates from mainland States can travel to Tassie by sea or air. Four airlines fly to Launceston - Qantas, Jetstar, Virgin Blue and Tiger - and the ferry Spirit of Tasmania crosses Bass Strait every night.

Here's your chance to have a tax-deductible holiday in Tasmania. Why not take your family? Tasmania in early autumn is a delight.

The Conference will be held at the Hotel Grand Chancellor, in the centre of Launceston and close to the magnificent City Park, the Museum, the Design Centre and Boag's Brewery!

The venue for a special dinner on the Saturday night is the Country Club Casino.

There will be many sessions of interest to Contractors. Legal, accounting, insurance and tax specialists as well as POAAL representatives will be on hand to answer your questions.

Conference registration forms will be available soon. Contractors will also be able to register online - check the POAAL website for updates.

We look forward to seeing you in Launceston!

Published on 11 January 2008

Canberra Christmas dinner - 7 December

Licensees and Mail Contractors in the ACT region are invited to a pre-Christmas dinner organised by POAAL for Friday 7 December 2007.

The function will be at the Embassy Motel Restaurant, Hopetoun Circuit, Deakin, 7.00pm for 7.30pm. Queries and replies, please, to local POAAL contact Ajit Banerjee at the Deakin LPO.

We have met at this Restaurant previously, and found the meals to be excellent, and there is plenty of free parking! If you come from outside the ACT and want to stay in Canberra for the night, the Embassy Motel can assist with accommodation.

Note: Expenses for attending this meeting, including costs travelling to and fro, and the meal, are a tax deduction. Keep all receipts and documentation for tax purposes.

Published on 26 November 2007

Personal data of 25m people missing in internal mail

Two computer disks containing the contact and bank details of 25 million UK taxpayers have gone missing in transit.

A UK public servant, working in Revenue and Customs, sent the details to another govennment department on two computer disks which then went missing.

TNT operates the Revenue and Customs's internal post system. UK Police are now involved in trying to locate the parcel.

The parcel was sent on 18 October but was not reported missing until 10 November. TNT has noted that track and trace was not used in this instance.

Published on 23 November 2007

Reward offered in US postie shooting

A US$50,000 reward has been offered for information leading to the arrest of the person who shot a US postal carrier last week.

The shooting took place in Chicago. The postie was delivering mail at about 6:30pm when he was shot in the thigh. The postie was rushed to hospital and has now been released and is recovering from his injuries.

The US Postal Inspection Service, which handles the law enforcement side of the US Postal Service, is now offering a reward of up to US$50,000 for information leading to the arrest of the shooter

Published on 19 November 2007

US postie shot in the leg

A postal delivery officer in Chicago, USA, has been shot in the leg by a resident angry that mail was being delivered late, according to reports.

The postie was delivering mail at around 6:30pm when he was shot in the thigh.

In the USA, posties usually finish work at 5pm, however the postie in question was working late because of a public holiday on Monday and heavier than normal mail volumes.

Published on 16 November 2007

The real winner in UK postal strike?

UK parcel carrier Business Post has claimed that the recent staff strikes at Royal Mail have helped increase customer awareness of its services.

Business Post recently announced that its group revenue has grown, despite the recent loss of the FedEx distribution contract. (Business Post effectively acted as the agent for FedEx in the UK.)

80% of Business Post's revenues are from its business-to-business segment. Its postal subsidiary, UK Mail, recorded a 7.2% increase in profit for the half-year ending 30 September 2007.

Published on 15 November 2007

AaE to introduce new delivery portal

Australian Air Express has designed a new "online delivery portal" for its customers. The portal allows customers to enter pick-up and delivery details online and then print a label (including barcode) for the consignment which AaE drivers can scan upon collection.

AaE has been testing the scanning system since last year. It has a network of 1800 hand-held scanners across Australia.

The new online portal will also allow customers to track and trace their consignments.

Australian Air Express is a partnership of Australia Post and Qantas.

Published on 13 November 2007

Royal Mail profits down

Royal Mail. the UK postal operator, has announced a drop in profits for the financial year ending 31 March 2007. This has been attributed to rising pension costs and increased competition in the UK's fully liberalised postal market.

Royal Mail's European parcel business, General Logistics Systems (GLS), recorded increased revenues and operating profits.

The post office network recorded a loss of £99m. But the underlying loss, excluding a government revenue subsidy of £75 million, increased by 57% to £174 million.

Mail volumes fell, in part due to Royal Mail losing business to other postal operators. Royal Mail is now seeking to restructure its pension fund and introduce modernisation measures in an effort to remain competitive and continue to provide service to all UK residents.

Published on 12 November 2007

Labor commits to retain AP in public hands

Following the Minister for Communication's recent announcement that AP will remain in public hands under a Coalition Federal Government, Senator Stephen Conroy (Labor's Shadow Minister for Communications) has stated that AP will remain in public ownership under a Labor federal government.

Licensees and Contractors heard the Shadow Minister address the POAAL Branch Meeting in Sydney last Thursday, 8 November. He commented on the extraordinary work that Licensees and Contractors perform, from delivery mail to remote parts of Australia to providing over-the-couter retail services to their local communities.

Senator Conroy announced that not only is the ALP committed to retaining Australia Post in public ownership, the ALP will not further deregulate Australia Post.

During the course of his presentation, Senator Conroy touched on many issues of interest, including the relationship between AP and its Licensees and Contractors. He spoke with authority on issues facing Licensees and Contractors, and vowed to take an active interest in Australia Post should the ALP win government.

above: Senator Conroy (centre) with Licensees and Mail Contractors at the POAAL Branch meeting.

Senator Conroy announced that the ALP will institute a Petrol Commissioner at the ACCC, with responsibility for pricing and competition issues relating to petrol.

The Minister for Communications, Senator Helen Coonan, made a presentation at the POAAL NSW Branch meeting on 26 September. She noted Licensees' and Contractors' value to Australia Post.

Published on 9 November 2007

New hybrid truck launched

Iveco has launched a new hybrid truck, the Iveco Eurocargo Hybrid.

The truck combines diesel and electric power. It is estimated that the new hybrid truck will deliver 30% savings on operating costs compared to similar trucks.

Road tests will commence in 2008.

Published on 8 November 2007

TNT signs MoU with Russian Post

TNT and Russian Post have signed a Memorandum of Understanding this month.

They will look for areas in which they can work together and will also set up a programme to facilitate the exchange of knowledge.

TNT already provides international express services into Russia.

Published on 7 November 2007

Political lobbying for this month's election

POAAL has prepared a pro forma letter that Mail & Parcel Contractors can use when lobbying their local member of federal parliament.

Make sure that politicians hear your voice during this federal election campaign. Write to your local candidates, the Minister for Communications, the Shadow Minister for Communications, and other politicians.

A pro forma letter can be downloaded from the POAAL website. If you wish, you can use the letter as a basis for your own correspondence to politicians, noting your own local issues as well as matters of national importance.

Don't delay - make your voice heard before election day.

Download: Pro forma letter (71kb)

Published on 4 November 2007

Shadow Minister to address Sydney meeting

The POAAL NSW Branch will be holding a Branch Meeting for Licensees and Mail & Parcel Contractors in Sydney on Thursday 8 November, 2007.

Guest speaker: Shadow Minister for Communications, Senator Stephen Conroy

Date: Thursday 8 November 2007

Time: 7:30pm sharp

Place: Canterbury Hurlstone Park RSL Club, Argyle Room. Entry through main Club entrance at 20-26 Canterbury Rd, Hurlstone Park.

Senator Conroy is very busy in the lead-up to the Federal Election and we are grateful that he has agreed to meet with us. Take this opportunity to find out what the Labor Party has in mind for Australia Post and the postal industry.

Ian from POAAL's National Office will be in attendance, and will chair a brief meeting exclusively for Mail & Parcel Contractors after Senator Conroy's presentation.

Seating is limited in the Argyle Room, so your prompt RSVP is appreciated.

Whitech Solutions, producers of the Photo.Teller kiosk will have a display at the meeting. The Photo.Teller kiosk allows customers to create customised gifts from their digital photos. Join us from 7pm and network with other Licensees and POAAL Committee members before Senator Conroy's presentation.

To view the Photo.Teller kiosk online visit the Whitech website.

This meeting is free to 2007/08 financial POAAL members - show your POAAL membership card. A charge of $33 will apply to unfinancial POAAL members (tax invoice will be mailed).

Expenses for attending this meeting including costs travelling to and fro, and any meal, are a tax deduction. Keep all receipts and documentation for tax purposes.

Published on 29 October 2007

Changes to Mail Contractor payment dates

Australia Post will be informing Contractors that it has changed its decision regarding Mail Contractor payment dates.

Following persistent lobbying and representations by POAAL and many individual Contractors, AP will not make Contractor payments after the end of the month, as previously proposed. Instead, AP will apparently standardise all Contractor payments to a common date at the end of each month, starting with November 2007.

POAAL wrote directly to Australia Post on this matter, as well as lobbying the Federal Minister for Communications, the Shadow Minister for Communications and the ACCC.

Persistence pays off at times like these when the case is strong. POAAL still hopes that AP will consult with Contractors' peak organisation, POAAL, before making any future decisions that impact in such a direct and negative way upon their Contractors.

Congratulations to all Contractors who took the time to lobby AP on this matter.

Published on 24 October 2007

Griffith meeting for Contractors - 28 October

POAAL will be holding a meeting for Mail & Parcel Contractors in Griffith, NSW. Contractors from Griffith and surrounds are invited to attend.

When: Sunday 28th October 2007, commencing 10.30am

Where: Griffith Ex-Servicemen's Club.

Dennis Jenner will be the speaker. Dennis is a POAAL Director and former Mail Contractor. He has extensive experience in delivery, running an LPO and was previously an Australia Post Manager. Get your questions ready for him!

Meals are available at the club. There will be a Licensee session in the afternoon, so if you are also have a Licensed Post Office, you are welcome to attend that session too.

RSVPs to the POAAL National Office would be appreciated.

Expenses for attending this meeting, including costs travelling to and fro, and any meal, are a tax deduction. Keep all receipts and documentation for tax purposes.

Published on 17 October 2007

Perth WA meeting - 21 October

A meeting for Mail & Parcel Contractors will be held in Perth on Sunday 21 October.

Date: Sunday 21 October

Time: 10:30am start

Place: Saville Park Suites, 201 Hay St, Perth (Blackburne Room)

POAAL Director Dennis Jenner will be present and POAAL's CEO will update Contractors on the latest national news, and will also discuss the latest global transport and logistics trends.

If possible, RSVP to the POAAL National Office by phone or fax by 18 October.

Note: There will be a Licensee meeting after lunch

Expenses for attending this meeting including costs travelling to and from, and any meal, are a tax deduction. Keep all receipts and documentation for tax purposes.

Published on 11 October 2007

AP to remain in public hands

Senator Helen Coonan has emphatically confirmed that Australia Post will remain in public hands.

Senator Coonan, the Minister for Communications, IT & The Arts, addressed the POAAL Branch Meeting in Sydney last Wednesday, 26 September. The Minister's address covered topics such as the value of Licensees, Agents and Contractors to the operations of Australia Post, the Government's intention to ensure that all Australians have access to postal serevices, including small communities. She noted that LPOs and Community Agencies fill in the gaps in many rural areas as other businesses close.

Above: The Minister, Senator the Hon Helen Coonan, with some of the POAAL members at the Sydney meeting on 26 September.

Licensees and Mail Contractors warmly welcomed the Minister to their meeting and took the opportunity to ask pertinent questions after her presentation. The Minister and her Chief of Staff were given a clear picture of how Licensees and Contractors perceive the postal industry and their role in it.

The Minister agreed that it was worthwhile for her to take the time to talk directly with people who have invested in the Australian postal industry and noted her appreciation for their role in the community. She advised that the government is preparing to invest in the postal industry - Licensees and Contractors are keen for at least some of that investment to be in their sector.

Published on 2 October 2007

Relay for Life - Team Williamson

The Relay for Life is an event that honours those whose lives have been touched by cancer. POAAL member Kevin Williamson has entered a team in Relay for Life at Gunnedah to raise money to help defeat cancer. Both Mail Contractor Kevin and his wife Narelle are cancer survivors, making the cause a very personal one for them.

Kevin and Narelle are seeking support of POAAL members for Team Williamson for their 24-hour relay walk in Gunnedah on 21/22 September, and have asked POAAL to spread the word. We feel sure that Kevin's Mail Contractor colleagues will be interested in supporting this cause.

Donations over $2 are tax deductible. Visit the Relay for Life website where you can donate to Team Williamson. All money raised will go towards cancer research.

Published on 11 September 2007

Minister to address Sydney meeting 26 September

The NSW Branch is holding a special meeting for Licensees and Mail & Parcel Contractors on Wednesday 26 September, 2007.

Guest speaker: Federal Minister for Communications, Senator the Hon Helen Coonan

POAAL is pleased to announce that the Minister for Communications, IT & The Arts, Senator the Hon Helen Coonan, will speak at the next meeting of the POAAL NSW Branch to be held on Wednesday 26 September 2007.

The Minister has responsibility for Australia Post and postal matters. She will make a presentation on postal matters and will then be available to answer questions.

Here's a great opportunity to meet the Federal Government Minister responsible for Australia Post - make sure you RSVP today!

Meeting details:

Date: Wednesday 26 September 2007

Time: 7:30pm sharp

Place: Canterbury Hurlstone Park RSL Club

After the Minister's presentation, there will be a presentation on Annexure A.

Refreshments will be provided.

Entry is free to POAAL members - show your POAAL membership card at the door. A charge of $33 will apply to unfinancial members. Priority will be given to current financial POAAL members.

Numbers are strictly limited - you must RSVP for this meeting.

Published on 10 September 2007

TNT moves to further cut emissions

TNT has launched a new programme to reduce its carbon dioxide emissions and to encourage its employees to do likewise. The programme is called "Planet Me".

Under the programme, TNT will install reporting systems to monitor emissions and implement carbon dioxide reduction initiatives.

TNT sees environmental initiatives as a way to position itself with customers, governments, its employees and the general public.

DHL to push into India

Transport Intelligence reports that DHL is in talks with India Post regarding access to the Indian express market.

A joint venture betweek DHL and India Post would give DHL access to India Post's network while India Post would benefit from DHL's technological and organisational advances. DHL's presence in India is currently limited to major metropolitan areas.

Deutsche Post World Net (DPWN) is the parent group for Deutsche Post, DHL, and Post Bank.

Published on 7 September 2007

Strikes affect delivery standards

Poor delivery results in Scotland have been blamed on recent strike action at an Edinburgh mail centre.

Royal Mail has apologised for the delays, saying that it "was because of a short period of unofficial industrial action."

The strike was as a result of a dispute regarding pay.

Published on 6 September 2007

Qantas buys freight company

Qantas has announced that it has acquired 100 per cent of the Asia-based express freight operator, DPEX Worldwide.

DPEX operates in 18 Asian countries. Qantas sees the Asian express market as a high-growth market, and it is looking to expand its presence in Asia.

Published on 5 September 2007

Minister to attend Sydney meeting

POAAL is pleased to announce that the Minister for Communications, IT & The Arts, Senator Helen Coonan, will address the next NSW Branch meeting being held in Sydney.

Date: Wednesday 26 September 2007

Time: 7:30pm sharp

The Minister's portfolio has responsibility for Australia Post. This is a fantastic opportunity to meet the Minister and hear first-hand what she has to say on postal matters.

An invitation will be mailed soon to all POAAL members in NSW. RSVP without delay for this event. Numbers are strictly limited.

Published on 3 September 2007

Changes to Mail Contractor Payment Dates

POAAL has written to Australia Post following AP's unilateral decision to vary payment dates for Mail & Parcel Contractors.

Following AP's announcement, POAAL received many calls from Contractors who were upset at the change. Contractors were annoyed that the changes would mean many administrative changes for them as well as changes to payments made by Contractors to subcontractors and suppliers. Most contractors have financial commitments related to their mail service which are scheduled around the date they are paid. These commitments often include vehicle payments and expenses.

No reasons were given for the decision to change, and no consultation took place to ascertain the impact this change would have on mail contractors and the way they budget.

We have suggested to AP that they assist contractors during the change-over period so that no contractor is financially embarrassed.

Published on 31 August 2007

Do you have subbies?

Contractors - do you have subbies?

Sub-contractors are eligible to become Associate Members of POAAL and take out insurances via the POAAL master policies.

Contact the POAAL National Office on (03) 96544533 for pricing and more information.

Published on 28 August 2007

The Post Guide

Contractors - do you know where to find a copy of the Post Guide?

Contractors will find that the Post Guide is extremely useful for resolving misunderstandings and disputes. It contains information on a wide variety of topics, including location of letter boxes, carriage of fluids in the mail, dangerous goods, and maximum size and weight for parcels.

There should be a copy on display at your DC or originating office. If you don’t know where to find a copy, make it your business to find out!

Published on 23 August 2007

Answers to Senate Estimates questions

POAAL has been advised that replies have been received from Australia Post to questions which were posed about delivery contractor issues during the May Senate Estimates question period.

Among responses given on the day by Australia Post were:
• AP does not plan to introduce incentives to encourage Contractors to reduce their greenhouse impact
• AP is unaware of any instances where a Contractor failed to apply for a price rise or variation (regarding fuel prices) because he or she was not aware of movement in fuel price.
• AP will only give Contractors a fuel price increase on the basis of movement in the wholesale price of fuel as advised.
• AP will share with contractors the information it collects on the movement of wholesale price of petrol upon request.

Published on 21 August 2007

Royal Mail expands to Romania

Royal Mail will soon have a presence in Romania! The UK postal group owns GLS, a European parcel network. GLS has expanded its operations into Romania.

GLS will have a hub in Sibiu, and ten depots including one in Bucharest. Delivery time within Romania will be 24 hours.

Published on 8 August 2007

Trade Practices amendments

The Senate referred the provisions of the Trade Practices Legislation Amendment Bill (No. 1) 2007 and the Trade Practices Amendment (Predatory Pricing) Bill 2007 to the Standing Committee on Economics.

The Committee invited submissions on these two pieces of legislation.

POAAL provided the Committee with a detailed submission, which can be downloaded from the Parliament House website.

Published on 6 August 2007

Inquiry into price of unleaded petrol

POAAL made a submission to the ACCC's Inquiry into the Price of Unleaded Petrol.

The submission included comments from POAAL Mail & Parcel Contractor members.

POAAL's submission may be downloaded from the ACCC website.

Published on 1 August 2007

ACCC inquiry into the price of petrol

The ACCC is holding an inquiry into the price of unleaded petrol.

Matters to be taken into consideration by the inquiry include, but are not restricted to:

• the current structure of the industry;
  
• the extent of competition at the refinery, wholesale and retail levels, including the role of imports;
  
• the determination of prices at each of these levels, including the methodology for determining wholesale prices; and
  
• current impediments to efficient petrol pricing and possible methods to address them.
  

POAAL will be making a submission to this inquiry.

Do you have any comments that you would like included in POAAL's submission? You can comment on anything you like relating to the price of unleaded petrol, including fuel price cycles, competition between petrol stations, availability of alternatives to unleaded petrol, etc.

Comments should be forwarded to the POAAL National Office by this Wednesday, 18 July.

Mail & Parcel Contractors' comments are important - make your voice heard!

For more infomation visit the ACCC website.

Published on 16 July 2007

Grenade found in mail

There was a bomb scare at a mail centre in Edinburgh when two packages were found to contain hand grenades.

The contents were discovered while screening mail to be transported by air for delivery in England, Wales and overseas.

Royal Mail's security procedures swung into place and the packages were placed in a secure area for the protection of staff.

The Army's bomb squad identified the grenades as being Second World War grenades that did not contain explosives. The grenades were part of a war memorabilia collection.

Published on 13 July 2007

Insurance coverage

GWS Genco Group has negotiated a 21-day grace period for POAAL members renewing their master policy insurances (such as public liability insurance, personal accident insurance, marine cargo insurance and PDT insurance). Renew before 21 July 2007 to ensure continuous insurance coverage.

If you are a Licensee, Contractor or Agent and you've mislaid your renewal form, call the POAAL National Office and we'll arrange a replacement form. Phone us on 03 96544533.

Published on 12 July 2007

Renew your POAAL membership today!

Have you renewed your POAAL membership for 2007/08?

Make sure you renew to continue access to POAAL's services, including:

• POAAL's member meetings and seminars
  
• POAAL's nationwide network of contacts
  
• Competitively priced insurance for your business
  
• Subscription to POAAL's member magazine, Postal News
  
• Email newsletters keeping you up-to-date on postal industry matters
  
• And more!
  

POAAL is the national independent association for Mail & Parcel Contractors. Make sure you're a part of it!

Published on 11 July 2007

Fuel saving tips

Shell Australia has launched a programme called "FuelStretch".

The FuelStretch mini-site includes some fuel saving tips and information on fuel pricing. While it is aimed primarily at private car owners, there is some information that may be of interest to Mail & Parcel Contractors.

For more, visit www.shell.com.au/fuelstretch

Published on 3 July 2007

Fly in, fly out posties

The West Australian newspaper has reported that Australia Post is paying up to $2500 per week for posties who temporarily fill in at mining towns.

For the West Australian's full online report, click here.

Published on 2 July 2007

Deutsche Post airline venture

There are reports emanating from Europe that Deutsche Post World Net (parent company of Deutsche Post, DHL and Postbank) and Lufthansa are engaged in talks about forming a joint venture cargo airline.

The joint venture will reportedly offer both express parcel capabilities as well as conventional air freight worldwide.

It has been suggested that the new venture will operate a fleet of ten freighters.

Published on 28 June 2007

Contractors allowed access to AP's fuel price data

Australia Post has given a commitment to allow Contractors access to AP's fuel price data. This will allow Contractors to calculate if and when to apply for a fuel price review under the terms of the mail contract.

At the Senate Estimates Committee on 23 May 2007, an AP representative advised that AP would provide access to its fuel price data to any Contractor upon request.

POAAL has been pushing for AP to give greater access to fuel price information, which will provide transparency in the review process and make it easier for Contractors to manage their contract. This development is welcome news.

For a transcript of the hearings, please visit the Parliament House website. The transcript can be downloaded as a PDF.

Published on 25 June 2007

Save money - don't turn right!

Parcel delivery company UPS has hit upon a novel way of reducing fuel consumption. By planning delivery runs to avoid left-hand turns (equivalent to turning right, across traffic, in Australia) the company is able to save a small amount of fuel per delivery vehicle.

Multiplied across its entire delivery fleet, UPS is reportedly making significant fuel savings.

UPS is also reported to have banned kerbside idling while effecting deliveries in an attempt to reduce fuel consumption. It is unclear what impact this would have on engine wear and tear.

Published on 21 June 2007

Second chance draw - win $250!

Insurance brokers GWS Genco Group have announced that due to the success of the $1000 fuel promotion it will offer a second chance draw. All Licensees and Contractors who take out POAAL membership and at least one insurance product listed on the POAAL membership form by 29 June 2007 will go into the draw to win $250.

And rest assured - if you renewed by 18 June but don't win the $1000, you will be eligible to win the $250.

Entries close 5pm (EST) 29 June 2007. Draw will take place in Melbourne on 4 July 2007. Winners will be notified by mail and their names published in Postal News, Q3 2007.

Published on 20 June 2007

Monitoring consignment temperatures

A new system has been developed that uses RFID technology to monitor temperatures of shipments.

DHL has partnered with other companies, including a pharmaceutical company, to develop a syystem that will allow the location and temperatures of pharmaceutical shipments to be monitored in real time.

During the journey, if the temperature of the shipment changes and goes outside the desired temperature range, an alert message is sent via SMS or email so that appropriate action can be taken.

Published on 18 June 2007

FedEx signs hybrid power agreement

FedEx has signed an agreement with Azure Dynamics to develop hybrid powered vehicles for FedEx's delivery fleet. This follows a continuing trend for major logistics and delivery companies (such as Australia Post) to trial and develop alternative powered vehicles.

Azure Dynamics is a company that specialises in developing hybrid electric vehicles and electric vehicles. The company will develop a hybrid commercial delivery van with FedEx. FedEx has committed to purchasing a minimum of 20 hybrid vans to be delivered before May 2008.

FedEx has noted that it is continuing to seek opportunities to drive efficiencies with positive environmental spinoffs. It already has 93 hybrid-electric vehicles in service in North America.

Published on 8 June 2007

Australia Post not for sale

The Federal Government has today noted that it has no plans to sell Australia Post. This statement follows speculation fuelled by CommSec's valuation of Australia Post at up to $7 billion.

A report from CommSec noted that a strong case could be made for the sale of Australia Post. Articles covering the report were published in some newspapers today, including The Age.

A spokesperson for the Minister for Communications, IT & The Arts, Senator Helen Coonan, today said that the Federal Government has no plans to sell Australia Post. (As reported in The Age online today.)

The Shadow Minister for Communications & IT, Senator Stephen Conroy, today released a statement noting that the ALP is committed to retaining Australia Post in full public ownership.

Published on 4 June 2007

May Senate Estimates Hearings

Australia Post appeared before the Senate Estimates Committee on 23 May. Representatives from Australia Post were quizzed by Senators on a number of matters, including fuel price rises, greenhouse gas emissions, PO Boxes and security equipment at LPOs.

For a transcript of the hearings, please visit the Parliament House website. The transcript can be downloaded as a PDF.

Published on 31 May 2007

Australia Post launches hybrid truck trial

Australia Post has launched a trial of a hybrid diesel/electric powered delivery truck. The trial was recently launched by the Minister for Communications, IT & The Arts, Senator Helen Coonan.

By trialling hybrid power, AP is positioning itself to take a lead position in alternative fuels in Australia. It is anticipated that there will be a long-term financial benefit by decreasing the reliance upon oil-based fuels as fuel prices inevitably increase in years to come.

AP hopes to achieve up to 30% fuel savings as well as a decrease in carbon dioxide emissions. The trial will take place in metropolitan areas.

POAAL has been closely following developments in alternative and future fuels internationally, in particular their take-up by major mail and logistics companies. TNT is currently trialling electric-powered trucks in the UK as well as trialling bio-fuels in India. Royal Mail is using electric-powered scooters for delivery of street mail in some parts of the UK.

UPS last week announced that it has expanded its fleet of alternative-fuel vehicles with 50 next-generation hybrid electric/diesel delivery trucks. These new vehicles use regenerative braking, meaning that the energy generated when stopping the moving vehicle is captured and returned to the battery system as electrical energy.

The new UPS trucks have lower emissions than its existing hybrid vehicles, lower fuel consumption and are quieter than conventional UPS delivery trucks.

A UPS representative said that "[UPS's] long-term goal is to minimise dependence on fossil fuels."

Published on 28 May 2007

2007/08 Renewals

Membership renewals for 2007/08 have been sent to all POAAL members.

Included in the mailout was a bright orange flyer detailing how you can be in the running to win $1000 fuel courtesy of Insurance Brokers GWS Genco Group.

Make sure you're in the running to win this great prize - renew your POAAL membership by 18 June and take out at least one of the insurance products listed on the form to go into the draw.

Published on 22 May 2007

2007/08 Renewals

Mail Contractor members will soon receive POAAL's 2007/08 membership and insurance renewal forms.

Included with the renewal forms are details of membership and insurance as well as a sensational $1000 fuel voucher giveaway!

Pay your 2007/2008 POAAL membership and Public Liability, Personal Accident, Marine Cargo or PDT insurance by 18 June 2007 and you will go into the draw to win $1000 fuel.

Insurance broker GWS Genco Group has made available two $1000 fuel vouchers - one for Licensees and one for Mail & Parcel Contractors - for POAAL members paying their 2007/08 membership fee and insurance by 18 June 2007.

And of course, POAAL members can access great insurance rates for all their insurances through 100% Australian owned and operated insurance broker GWS Genco Group.

Entries close 5pm (EST) 18 June 2007. Draw will take place in Melbourne on 21 June 2007. Winners will be notified by mail and their names published in Postal News, Q3 2007.

Published on 18 May 2007

Domestic mail in Ireland

The Irish postal regulator, the Commission for Communications Regulator (ComReg) has published the findings of its 2006 postal surveys. An Post, the Irish national postal group, delivers over 750 million items each year.

Some of the findings of the surveys include:
• About 85% of Ireland's domestic post is business mail
• Businesses in Ireland spend an average of €8019 per annum
• Up to 20% of businesses are opting to use other postal operators in addition to An Post

Published on 20 April 2007

ACCC report into AP cross-subsidy

The ACCC has released its report assessing cross-subsidy in Australia Post.

The report presents the results of the ACCC’s analysis of Australia Post for the 2005–06 financial year to determine whether or not it is cross-subsidising from its reserved services to its non-reserved services.

The full report may be downloaded as a PDF from the ACCC website at http://www.accc.gov.au/content/index.phtml?itemId=783722.

Published on 17 April 2007

AP Whistleblower policy

Australia Post announced its Whistleblower Policy as it applies to Contractors in its "Contractor News" publication earlier this year. AP forgot to mention that the policy was extended to Contractors because of continued pressure from POAAL!

POAAL is pleased that Contractors can now enjoy some level of protectino from intimidation by AP management. It is hoped that the Whistleblower process can be used to eradicate bullying or anwanted behaviour by AP management and staff.

Published on 16 April 2007

Bio fuels trialled in India

TNT is trialling bio fuels in its delivery fleet in India. Bio fuels are being trialled over certain delivery routes, and if the trial is successful TNT intends to extend the use of bio fuels to its entire delivery fleet.

This is part of TNT's "Driving Clean" project, as reported in the last edition of Postal News.

Published on 11 April 2007

What a weekend!

Fantastic speakers, valuable workshops and the sensational seventies! POAAL's 2007 Conference in Christchurch had them all.

Licensees and Mail Contractors from all over Australia gathered in Christchurch, New Zealand, for POAAL's 2007 Conference. Joining Australian delegates were a few locals who operate NZ Post Franchised PostShops.

Conference highlights included site visits to NZ Post's new mail centre in Christchurch and to a few local post offices, Graeme Halperin's presentation on capital gains tax and superannuation and a presentation from a representative of the Postal Industry Ombudsman.

A full report will appear in the next edition of Postal News, including photos from the sensational 70s dinner!

Published on 10 April 2007

POAAL Conference only days away!

Licensees and Mail Contractors from across Australia are packing their bags for the POAAL Conference being held in Christchurch, New Zealand!

And delegates from New Zealand will be joining the Australians in Christchurch for this world-first international post office owners conference.

Guest speakers include leading solicitor Graeme Halperin, insurance broker Cameron Bott and a representative of the Postal Industry Ombudsman. The Secretary of the NZ Post Franchisees Association will also be making a presentation.

Exhibitors include Nation Wise will kits, Ambrosia retail products, and insurance brokers GWS Genco Group. There will also be a display of the latest mail sorting equipment technologies.

Another highlight for New Zealand and Australian conference delegates will be the site visit to NZ Post's new mail centre in Christchurch, where the brand new mail sorting machines will be demonstrated. There will also be visits to local franchised Postshops.

And, of course, there will be one of POAAL's popular LiPOMS Workshops!

POAAL members who couldn't make it to this POAAL Conference can look forward to a report and plenty of photos appearing in the next edition of Postal News.

Published on 3 April 2007

New "delivery intercept" service

UPS has launched an interesting new service called "Delivery Intercept" which is a new add-on service for track-and-trace shipments.

Delivery Intercept allows the sender to intercept and re-route packages before they have been delivered. The service is only available to UPS customers shipping products within the USA and Puerto Rico.

Packages can be intercepted even after a package has been loaded onto a UPS delivery vehicle!

It will be interesting to see if Australia Post or other national postal corporations offer a similar service for track-and-trace parcels. It could be a premium service, possibly the next level up from Express Post Platinum.

Published on 28 March 2007

POAAL Conference - still time to book!

POAAL's 2007 Conference will be held in Christchurch, New Zealand, over Easter. That's 7 & 8 April, 2007.

Solicitor Graeme Halperin will make a presentation on capital gains tax and superannuation reforms. Graeme has made presentations at previous POAAL Conferences - he has in depth experience of the postal industry (in particular LPOs and Mail Contracts) and his presentations are always interesting and thought-provoking.

A representative of the Postal Industry Ombudsman (PIO) will make a presentation at the Conference. The PIO was launched last year and it will be interesting to hear of how the introduction of an industry-specific ombudsman will impact on the postal industry in Australia.

There are two social events as well - a Welcome Reception on the Friday night and the Conference Dinner on the Saturday night. POAAL's Conference Dinners are always affairs to be remembered!

Licensees and Mail Contractors can register online for the Conference.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Published on 16 March 2007

Courier insurance 07/08

POAAL offers associate membership and insurance to Couriers.

Renewals notices for 2007/08 will soon be mailed to all POAAL's Courier members.

This year POAAL is excited to announce that marine cargo insurance will be offered to Couriers. See the 2007/08 renewal form for more details.

Other insurances, such as personal accident, workers compensation and vehicle insurance, are available through Australian-owned insurance brokers GWS Genco Group. GWS Genco Group can be contacted on 1300 881 229.

If you are a courier and you would like to know more about POAAL's services for couriers, please contact the POAAL National Office on (03) 96544533.

Published on 12 March 2007

Are you tendering for a mail contract?

Are you tendering for a mail or parcel contract?

POAAL is a membership association that offers a range of services to Mail Contractors.

POAAL has published a short guide to some items you should take into consideration when tendering for an Australia Post mail contract.

If you are interested in pricing for public liability insurance, marine cargo insurance, personal accident insurance or PDT (general property) insurance, then please ring the staff at the POAAL National Office on (03) 96544533.

For information on pricing for workers compensation, vehicle insurance, sickness insurance, and a wide range of other insurances, please contact POAAL's insurance broker GWS Genco Group on 1300 881 229 or visit their website at www.gwsins.com.

MCP Group offers a range of services for Mail Contractors, including legal, finance and company advice. They offer excellent service at a price that will suit Mail Contractors' budgets. MCP Group may be able to help you with equipment financing, including vehicle finance. MCP Group also offer a service to set up incorporated companies, as required under the mail contract. For more information, please contact MCP Group on (03) 9620 2001 or visit their website at www.mcpgroup.com.au.

(Please note that POAAL does not give insurance advice. For advice on any insurance products, please contact insurance brokers GWS Genco Group on 1300 881 229.)

Published on 11 January 2007

TNT trials electric trucks in UK

TNT is soon to commence a trial using 7.5-tonne electric trucks in London.

The trucks are produced by Smith Electric Vehicles, a UK-based electric vehicle manufacturer. TNT will be trialling the Newton, which can travel at up to 50mph and has a range of 130 miles.

More information on the use of electric vehicles in the post and logistics industry will be in the next edition of Postal News, POAAL's exclusive member magazine.

Published on 10 January 2007

Post Danmark acquires cargo operator

Australia Post isn't the only national postal group acquiring cargo and courier companies! In a move similar to AP's acquisitions of Star Track Express and smaller courier companies, Post Danmark (the Danish postal group) has agreed to purchase 51% of Transportgruppen.

This new arrangement would enable Post Danmark to offer its customers a total solution including courier shipments, parcels and mixed cargo of all sizes.

Post Danmark will have access to Transportgruppen's national distribution network, including major and regional cargo terminals.

Published on 9 January 2007

Messenger Post

MessengerPost couriers - did you know that you can join POAAL and take advantage of our services?

POAAL has many MessengerPost members. Contact POAAL today and find out more about our services, including competitive insurance.

To contact POAAL, ring the POAAL National Office on (03) 96544533, or complete the online Expression of Interest form.

Visit the Mail Contractor section for more information on the services POAAL offers Messenger Post drivers.

We look forward to being of service to you!

Published on 2 January 2007

Happy New Year!

POAAL wishes all its members a Happy New Year.

The POAAL National Office will open for regular business hours from 9am(Melbourne time) on 2 January 2007.

Published on 1 January 2007

Season's Greetings

POAAL wishes all its Mail & Parcel Contractor members a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. And after delivering all that mail over recent weeks, we hope that you get a chance to put your feet up!

POAAL's National Office will be closed on all public holidays over the Christmas and New Year period. On the other working days (including the AP authorised holiday!) the National Office will have reduced staffing levels and will be open from 10am to 4pm (Melbourne time). Our fax machine will be stocked with plenty of paper for those who wish to send us a fax!

Insurance: if any Contractors or prospective Contractors need to arrange or amend insurance cover between Christmas and New Year, our Insurance Brokers, GWS Genco Group, will have someone on call. Contact the POAAL National Office for details, or ring GWS Genco Group on 1300 881 229 or email GWS Genco Group at admin@gwsins.com.

Published on 22 December 2006

Sydney Contractors meeting - 10 December

POAAL's NSW Branch is holding a meeting for Mail & Parcel Contractors in Sydney on Sunday 10 December 2006.

Date: Sunday 10 December 2006

Time: 10:30am start

Place: Canterbury Hurlstone Park RSL Club

Free parking is available directly opposite the venue in Crinan Street.

Tea and coffee - and Christmas Cake! - will be provided.

Ian from POAAL's National Office will update Contractors on the latest national news, and will also discuss the latest global transport and logistics trends.

If possible, RSVP to the POAAL National Office by fax on 03 96544577 before 7 December if you are attending the meeting so that we can make sure we have sufficient tea, coffee, and Christmas Cake!

Lunch is available at the Bistro. Stay for lunch and share a meal with other POAAL members.

Note: There will be a Licensee meeting after lunch

Expenses for attending this meeting including costs travelling to and from, and any meal, are a tax deduction. Keep all receipts and documentation for tax purposes.

Published on 23 November 2006

Peak day is coming!

UPS anticipates that its busiest day in the lead-up to Christmas will be Wednesday 20 December. The package delivery company estimates that it will deliver more than 21 million articles worldwide - that's about 240 every second - on what it calls "Peak Day".

FedEx on the other hand predicts that it will deliver 8.5 million items on their peak day of 13 December.

The continuing growth in online shopping will result in even more parcels being delivered by post this year in Australia. And how many UMS (householders) will Contractors have to deliver during December now that AP has relaxed its restrictions on Christmas UMS lodgements?

Which day will be your peak day in the Christmas period?

Published on 21 November 2006

Delayed contract reviews

Australia Post has admitted that it has been unfairly delaying contract reviews.

Contractors will recall that AP has previously delayed the performance of contract reviews (including fuel price reviews) pending provision by the Contractor of proof of insurance. The mail contract does not require Contractors to provide proof of insurance as a prerequisite to the performance of any contract reviews.

POAAL had brought this matter to the attention of the Minister for Communications, IT & the Arts, Senator Helen Coonan. The Minister has responded, advising that AP had informed her that AP has previously withheld contract reviews as a method of obtaining the required insurance information.

AP has now advised the Minister that it will cease this action. No commitment has been made yet by AP regarding backpay for those Contractors whose contract reviews have been delayed.

Contractors should be aware that under the terms of the mail contract they must provide proof of insurance to Australia Post. Failure to do so could result in a breach of contract notice being issued.

Refer to the insurance section of the POAAL website for more information on insurance services available to POAAL members.

Published on 15 November 2006

Australia Post annual report

Australia Post has recently released its Annual Report for the year 2005-06. Some parts of it make interesting reading. AP employees, Licensees and Contractors were issued with a "staff version" however if and when you have time, you can look at the whole document on Australia Post's website.

Published on 9 November 2006

UPS to carry express mail for Poste Italiane

Delivery company UPS has signed an agreement with Poste Italiane to carry outward international express shipments for the Italian postal operator.

UPS is also finalising details to utilise the Poste Italiane network for its own pickup and final delivery in certain extended areas of Italy.

Poste Italiane sees this deal as part of its strategy to enhance its own standing in the Italian domestic express industry.

Published on 8 November 2006

Security of the mail

Contractors are reminded to be especially aware of security in the build-up to Christmas. If you have employees or subcontractors, make sure they are aware of their obligations to keep the mail secure.

Christmas time is also a time of increased mail and parcel volumes, so consider checking from time to time that your subcontractors or employees are completing all their deliveries each day.

Published on 6 November 2006

Hand held scanners in Europe

UPS, the international parcel delivery giant, has announced that it will be rolling out a new generation of hand-held computers to its drivers in Europe. The new computers feature GPS technology.

The new system is lighter in weight than the technology it replaces. Its battery lasts an entire work day. More than 11,600 of the new hand-held devices will be deployed in Europe this year, and about 46,000 will be deployed by UPS globally.

Published on 18 September 2006

Press picks up on POAAL's petrol submission

POAAL's submission to the Senate Inquiry into the Price of Petrol has caught the attention of the press. Melbourne's Sunday Age newspaper has picked up on POAAL's call for the Federal Government to cut fuel excise and encourage the development of hybrid-powered commercial vehicles.

The full article can be found online at The Age's website.

(If the above link does not work, use http://snipurl.com/u33z)

POAAL is pleased to see the media taking an interest in the pressures facing Mail & Parcel Contractors.

For a listing of all the submissions received, visit the Parliament House website.

From there you can download a copy of the POAAL submission.

The POAAL submission was compiled following input from Mail & Parcel Contractors from all over Australia - another example of POAAL making Contractors' voices heard.

POAAL - the independent national organisation looking after Mail & Parcel Contractors.

Published on 30 July 2006

Independent Contractors legislation

POAAL has made a submission to the Inquiry into Independent Contractors Legislation. All submissions made to the Inquiry are now available to view on the Parliament House website.

The POAAL submission may be downloaded from the Parliament House website.

Published on 28 July 2006

Petrol pricing submission online

POAAL has made a submission to the Inquiry into the Price of Petrol.

For a listing of all the submissions received, visit the Parliament House website.

From there you can download a copy of the POAAL submission.

The POAAL submission was compiled following input from Mail & Parcel Contractors from all over Australia.

Published on 27 July 2006

Workers Compensation

Is it time for you to renew your Workers Compensation policy?

GWS Genco Group, POAAL's appointed insurance broker, has arranged a Workers Compensation policy, designed to suit the needs of Licensees and Mail Contractors in all States and Territories.

GWS Genco Group has negotiated with QBE Insurance, one of Australia's largest insurance companies, to provide:
• Competitive pricing;
• Easy to complete documentation; and
• A streamlined claims process

Who needs to take out a Workers Compensation policy?

• Is your business a registered company?
• Do you employ workers?
• Do you employ apprentices or trainees? (regardless of remuneration paid)
• Are you a working director or employ family members?

If you answer yes to any of these questions then you may require a workers compensation policy. In the case of working Directors, you may need to also identify those Directors on the policy to ensure coverage.

A Quotation Request Form can be downloaded as a PDF.

For more information please contact GWS Genco Group. Phone 1300 881 229 (Melbourne callers 9828 6700) or fax (03) 9828 6777.

Published on 12 July 2006

Official launch of PIO

The Postal Industry Ombudsman (PIO) was today launched in Sydney by Senator Helen Coonan, the Minister for Communications, IT and the Arts. (pictured left) POAAL was officially invited to the launch, and was represented by NSW State Chairman, John Dixon.

The Ombudsman, Prof. John McMillan, and Australia Post's Managing Director, Graeme John (pictured below), spoke at the launch.

"The Postal Industry Ombudsman will be a recognisable, dedicated, experienced and independent entity to help maintain high standards in our postal system and ensure it meets the future needs of consumers," Senator Coonan said.

Prof. McMillan commented that the number of representatives from the postal and courier industry attending the launch augurs well for the Postal Industry Ombudsman function and industry acknowledgement of the benefits of an association with the Ombudsman's office.

The PIO was established following extensive consultation, including submissions from POAAL. It was pleasing to see that many of POAAL's suggestions were incorporated into the PIO model. The PIO will start operations later in 2006.

It is POAAL's hope that the PIO will lead to an even more reliable and professional postal service in Australia.

For more information on the PIO, visit their website at www.pio.gov.au.

Published on 10 July 2006

Meetings in your area

POAAL holds meetings for Mail and Parcel Contractors across Australia. Last weekend POAAL meetings were held in Mackay and in Perth.

Mail & Parcel Contractor Meetings give Contractors a chance to have open discussions with other Contractors. Through networking at POAAL meetings, Contractors might find ways to improve their relationship with Australia Post, claim missing payments, or information on vehicles and equipment.

If you want a POAAL meeting to be held in your area, contact the POAAL National Office on 03 96544533.

Published on 28 June 2006

Mackay meeting - 24 June

POAAL's Queensland Branch is holding a Meet 'n Eat for Licensees and Contractors in the Mackay region on 24 June.

Date: Saturday 24 June 2006

Venue: The Yacht Club, Outer Harbour, Mackay

Time: 1pm

State Chairman Jenny Patroni invites all POAAL members in the Mackay region to join her and other Licensees and Contractors for good food and lots of shop talk. Treat yourself (and your partner) to a tax-deductible lunch.

Please RSVP by Thursday 22 June to the POAAL National Office.

Expenses for attending this meeting, including costs travelling to and fro, and the meal, are a tax deduction. Keep all receipts and documentation for tax purposes.

Published on 16 June 2006

Perth meeting for Contractors - 25 June

A meeting for Mail & Parcel Contractors in WA is being held in Perth on Sunday 25 June.

DATE: Sunday 25 June, 2006

TIME: 10:30am start

VENUE: Saville Park Suites, 201 Hay St, Perth

This is a great opportunity to network with your fellow Mail & Parcel Contractors, in particular those who represent you at a State and National level.

Feel free to bring your Contractor colleagues with you.

RSVP to the POAAL National Office by fax on 03 96544577 so that we can make sure we have enough tea and coffee on hand, otherwise just come along to the Saville on 25 June.

Special offer! Saville Park Suites Perth offer One and Two Bedroom apartment style accommodation. POAAL members attending this meeting are able to stay at the Saville at a specially negotiated conference rate for accommodation inclusive of Continental Breakfast.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Published on 14 June 2006

Win $1000 fuel!

Membership and insurance renewal forms have been sent to POAAL members, including details of how you could win $1000 fuel!

Pay your 2006/07 POAAL membership and Public Liability Personal Accident, Marine Cargo or PDT insurance by 16 June 2006 and you will go into the draw to win $1000 fuel.

Insurance brokers GWS Genco Group have made available two $1000 fuel vouchers - one for Licensees and one for Mail & Parcel Contractors - for POAAL members paying their membership fee and insurance by 16 June 2006.

POAAL membership is great value - and you can reduce your business expenses by taking advantage of GWS Genco Group's great insurance rates.

Entries close 5pm (EST) 16 June 2006. Draw will take place in Melbourne on 19 June 2006. Winners will be notified by mail and their names published in Postal News, Q3 2006.

POAAL cannot give insurance advice. For advice on insurance products, contact Australian-owned insurance brokers GWS Genco Group on 1300 881 229.

Published on 29 May 2006

POAAL membership 06/07

Membership and insurance renewal forms have been sent to Mail & Parcel Contractor members of POAAL, including details of how you could win $1000 fuel!

Pay your 2006/07 POAAL membership and Public Liability, Personal Accident, Marine Cargo or PDT insurance by 16 June 2006 and you will go into the draw to win $1000 fuel.*

Insurance brokers GWS Genco Group have made available two $1000 fuel vouchers - one for Mail & Parcel Contractors and one for Licensees - for POAAL members paying their membership fee and insurance by 16 June 2006.

This year POAAL members can access $20m public liability insurance for less than last year's premium. Great value for POAAL members. Some of the other savings available to POAAL members:

• Increased capital benefits for the personal accident insurance policy
  
• Marine Cargo policy - $100,000 cover for less than the premium for a $50,000 policy
  
• PDT insurance still at the same low rate - that's less than the rate in 2002/03!
  

Insurance certificates will be provided for public liability, marine cargo and PDT insurance. Please ensure that you give AP a copy of your certificates and that you retain the original.

A tax compliant invoice/receipt will also be issued, along with your POAAL membership card.

The benefits of collective strength are yours when you renew your membership with POAAL.

Published on 26 May 2006

Postal Industry Ombudsman

Legislation establishing the Postal Industry Ombudsman (PIO) was passed by Federal Parliament on 29 March 2006. The PIO will provide a mechanism for customers to resolve disputes with Australia Post, and possibly customer complaints against other postal operators.

Representatives of the PIO recently addressed a meeting of the POAAL Board, which provided an excellent opportunity to discuss how the PIO will interact with Licensees and Contractors. A report will be published in Postal News.

The first discussion paper regarding a PIO in Australia was published in 2002, and POAAL has supported the concept from the beginning. POAAL made a detailed submission in response to the discussion paper. It was pleasing to see that many of POAAL's suggestions were incorporated into the PIO model.

It is POAAL's hope that the PIO will lead to an even more reliable and professional postal service in Australia.

For more information on the PIO, visit the website at www.pio.gov.au.

Published on 1 May 2006

Have your say in Postal News

Postal News is POAAL's full-colour quarterly magazine. It is the best source of information and news for Mail & Parcel Contractors.

POAAL is now compiling the second edition of Postal News for 2006.

Postal News is your magazine, so why not have your say? Would you like to be featured in the quarterly "My Mail Contract" feature? Or perhaps you have a news item of interest to other Contractors. Maybe you've spotted an "Unusual Mailbox" while doing your mail run!

POAAL is also giving you a chance to have your say and maybe even win a prize! Send a Letter to the Editor and you'll be in the running to win a Shaeffer pen. Maybe there's a topic close to your heart - such as parcel contract unit rates, location of mail boxes, or escalating fuel prices. For each edition of Postal News in 2006, the editors of Postal News will award a Shaeffer pen to the writer of the best Letter to the Editor.

Send your contributions or Letters to the Editor to the POAAL National Office, PO Box 18042, COLLINS STREET EAST, VIC, 8003. Or fax to the POAAL National Office on (03) 96544577.

Published on 20 April 2006

Meet 'n Eat in Melbourne for Contractors

A Meet 'n Eat meeting for Mail & Parcel Contractors will be held in Melbourne on Tuesday 28 March.

Join us for a meal, some shop talk and an interesting guest speaker.

DATE: Tuesday 28 March 2006

TIME: 6pm

VENUE: Preston Club Hotel (Function Room), 402 Bell Street PRESTON

(Melway ref 30 F1)

The Club offers a $15 carvery meal.

A representative from the MCP Group will talk on company structures and other aspects of incorporation - of interest to all Contractors who are incorporated or who are about to form a company!

Ian from the POAAL National Office will be attending and will update you on National Contractor issues.

Bring your POAAL membership card - there will be a lucky door prize drawn from POAAL members who have their card with them on the night.

This is an evening dedicated to Mail & Parcel Contractors - don't miss it!

Remember: expenses for attending this meeting (including travelling costs to and from and the meal itself) are a tax deduction. Keep all receipts and documentation for tax purposes.

Please RSVP by phone (if possible) to the POAAL National Office on 96544533 so that we have an idea of numbers attending.

Published on 24 March 2006

Meet 'n Eat in Mackay

Jenny Patroni, Queensland Branch Chairman, is hosting a Meet 'n Eat for Licensees and Mail & Parcel Contractors in Mackay on Sunday 11 March.

DATE: Saturday 11 March

TIME: 12:30pm

VENUE: The Yacht Club, Outer Harbour, Mackay

Join her and your fellow Licensees and Mail & Parcel Contractors for good food and lots of shop talk. Treat yourself and your partner to a tax deductible lunch!

Please RSVP by Thursday 9 March to the POAAL National Office by fax on (03) 96544577 or ring Jenny at the Koumala LPO.

Published on 28 February 2006

Are you tendering for a mail contract?

Are you tendering for a mail contract?

POAAL is a membership association that offers a range of services to Mail Contractors.

POAAL has published a short guide to some items you should take into consideration when tendering for an Australia Post mail contract.

If you are interested in pricing for public liability insurance, marine cargo insurance, personal accident insurance or PDT (general property) insurance, then please ring the staff at the POAAL National Office on (03) 96544533.

For information on pricing for workers compensation, vehicle insurance, sickness insurance, and a wide range of other insurances, please contact POAAL's insurance broker GWS Genco Group on 1300 881 229 or visit their website at www.gwsins.com.

MCP Group offers a range of services for Mail Contractors, including legal, finance and company advice. They offer excellent service at a price that will suit Mail Contractors' budgets. MCP Group may be able to help you with equipment financing, including vehicle finance. MCP Group also offer a service to set up incorporated companies, as required under the mail contract. For more information, please contact MCP Group on (03) 9620 2001 or visit their website at www.mcpgroup.com.au.

(Please note that POAAL does not give insurance advice. For advice on any insurance products, please contact insurance brokers GWS Genco Group on 1300 881 229.)

Published on 8 February 2006

Contractor meetings - 11/12 February

POAAL will be holding meetings for Contractors in Brisbane, Sydney and Perth on the weekend of 11/12 February 2006. Meeting notices will be sent out very soon. Put these dates in your diary:

Brisbane - Saturday 11 February, 5:30pm meeting followed by a meal

Sydney - Sunday 12 February, 11am

Perth - Sunday 12 February, 10:30am

Published on 20 January 2006

Postal News - it's your magazine

POAAL is now compiling the first edition of Postal News for 2006.

Postal News is your magazine, so have your say. Would you like to be featured in the quarterly "My Mail Contract" feature? Or perhaps you have a news item of interest to other Contractors. Maybe you've spotted an "Unusual Mailbox" while doing your mail run!

POAAL is also giving you a chance to have your say and maybe even win a prize! Send a Letter to the Editor and you'll be in the running to win a Shaeffer pen. For each edition of Postal News in 2006, the editors of Postal News will award a Shaeffer pen to the writer of the best Letter to the Editor.

Send your contributions or Letters to the Editor to the POAAL National Office, PO Box 18042, COLLINS STREET EAST, VIC, 8003. Or fax to the POAAL National Office on (03) 96544577.

Published on 18 January 2006

Happy New Year!

POAAL wishes all its Mail Contractor members a safe and happy New Year.

Please note that the POAAL National Office will be closed only on public holidays over the Christmas/New Year break.

Published on 26 December 2005

Workers Compensation

As announced in the 4Q edition of Postal News, GWS Genco Group, POAAL's appointed insurance broker, has arranged a Workers Compensation policy, designed to suit the needs of Licensees and Mail Contractors in all States and Territories.

GWS Genco Group has negotiated with QBE Insurance, one of Australia's largest insurance companies, to provide:
• Competitive pricing;
• Easy to complete documentation; and
• A streamlined claims process

Who needs to take out a Workers Compensation policy?

• Is your business a registered company?
• Do you employ workers?
• Do you employ apprentices or trainees? (regardless of remuneration paid)
• Are you a working director or employ family members?

If you answer yes to any of these questions then you may require a workers compensation policy. In the case of working Directors, you may need to also identify those Directors on the policy to ensure coverage.

A Quotation Request Form can be downloaded as a PDF.

For more information please contact GWS Genco Group. Phone 1300 881 229 (Melbourne callers 9828 6700) or fax (03) 9828 6777.

Published on 29 November 2005

Sydney Mail Contractor meeting - 29 November

POAAL's NSW Branch is holding a Branch meeting for Mail Contractors on Tuesday 29 November.

DATE: Tuesday 29 November 2005

TIME: 6:00pm

VENUE: Canterbury Hurlstone Park RSL Club, Segenhoe Room, 127 Crinan Street, Hurlstone Park.

Please note that the Segenhoe Room has its own entrance.

Free parking available directly opposite the venue in Crinan Street.

Tea and coffee will be provided.

The meeting is open to all POAAL members who have a mail contract with Australia Post. This includes street mail contractors, parcel contractors, MessengerPost contractors, RSD contractors, depot bags contractors, and contractors with any other sort of mail contract.

This will be a great opportunity for networking with your fellow Contractors. Contractors will also be updated on National issues, and there will be a discussion of the recent changes to parcel fees proposed by Australia Post.

There will also be a lucky door prize at the meeting. Bring your POAAL membership card to be eligible to win.

If possible, please RSVP to the POAAL National Office so that we can have an idea of numbers attending the meeting, otherwise simply turn up on the night.

We look forward to seeing you there.

If you would like a POAAL meeting held in your area, please contact the POAAL National Office, or your nearest POAAL Mail Contractor contact (listed in Postal News).

Published on 28 November 2005

Ararat Meet 'n Eat - 27 November

POAAL is holding a Meet 'n Eat in Ararat for Mail Contractors this Sunday, 27 November.

DATE: Sunday 27 November 2005

TIME: 12noon

VENUE: Ararat RSL Club, 74-76 High Street, Ararat

Here's your change to meet and talk with Ian from the POAAL National Office, as well as Victorian State Chairman Des Burns.

Ararat RSL Club have a special Sunday Lunch Menu for $11. Come along and enjoy a meal while meeting with other Contractors and Licensees from the area.

If possible, please RSVP to the POAAL National Office by phone to (03) 96544533.

Published on 22 November 2005

Senate Estimates hearings

Senate Estimates hearings in relation to AP matters were held on 31 October. Representatives from Australia Post were quizzed by Senators on a number of matters, including fuel price rises and AP's "Franchised postshop" proposal.

For a transcript of the hearings, please visit the Parliament House website. The transcript can be downloaded as a PDF.

Published on 16 November 2005

AP proposal to vary parcel fee

Many Parcel Contractors have received correspondence from AP regarding a proposal to alter (reduce) fees paid to Parcel Contractors.

AP is proposing to introduce a new fee structure where Parcel Contractors will be paid different rates for different types of parcels. AP has proposed that Contractors will be paid a reduced rate for multiple-parcel eParcel consignments. AP apparently will make a commitment that no Contractor will be paid any less over the first six months under the new pricing scheme, which could infer that AP is anticipating that in the long term Contractors will be paid less.

AP claims in its letter to Parcel Contractors that it has carried out an analysis of parcel delivery costs. No mention is made of how or where the analysis was carried out.

AP notes that its aim is to increase its competitiveness when pursuing new business. While it is pleasing that AP is pursuing new business, it is disappointing that it sees fit to simply look for ways to pay Contractors less in order to drive its costs down.

Consider your situation and think very carefully before signing any agreement to vary your mail contract – seek professional advice if necessary.

Read your contract carefully. In particular, read clauses 8, 9 and 45. Know your contract – it determines your relationship with Australia Post.

Impact on future revenue to Contractors
Under the proposed payment structure, as volumes of ordinary parcels grow, income will grow by a smaller amount than at present. The boost in volumes of parcels at Christmas is largely in ordinary parcels, so under the proposed pricing scheme there is unlikely to be a boost in income for Parcel Contractors on the scale of previous Christmas periods.

Questions Contractors should ask their Contract Manager:

• Under what authority is AP proposing to vary the contract?
  
• What happens if I do not accept the contract variation offer – now and in the future?
  
• If I disagree with the percentage split of parcel categories supplied by AP will there be an opportunity to negotiate an agreed split?
  
• What adjustment to percentage and rate calculations has been made for parcels (particularly eParcels) that have to be delivered to high rise buildings, taken to the rear of houses and up steps to the back verandah, carded parcels requiring a signature at the Post Office, etc?
  
• Has there been any consideration given to an area within my contract area that is predominately private residences with low volumes of signature parcels that is serviced by an employee or sub-contractor? Obviously a sub-contractor's earnings will decrease. An employee will continue to be paid the same hourly rate, even if the parcels he delivers attract a lower delivery fee.
  
• Will Contractors have to split their consignments into categories so that AP staff can count parcels?
  
• What rate will contractors be paid for any new parcel business AP might secure during the 6 month top-up period?
  

Matters for action by the Contractor

• Compare AP’s calculations against your own records of current parcel numbers and category/percentage split and annual revenue. If you have not kept the necessary statistical information start to keep it immediately!
  
• Assess your contract area to estimate growth particularly in multi-consignment e-parcels.
  

Matters for consideration by the Contractor

Subject to answers/results from above:

• Is the delivery time specified by AP for subsequent eParcels realistic under all circumstances?
  
• Some Contractors have been quoted prices as low as between 6 and 35 cents per subsequent eParcel by AP in their contract variation offer. Does this even cover costs?
  
• Am I satisfied that I will not lose revenue overall?
  
• Am I satisfied that my proposed rate for subsequent eParcels is satisfactory and sustainable for current and future volumes?
  
• The guarantee of no loss of revenue for 6 months appears to only apply to existing customers of AP and not new customers signed up under the new rates. How does this affect my own estimate of volume growth?
  

When you tendered for your contract you took into account the reduced delivery time for certain multi-parcel consignments. AP is trying to change the rules mid-term. If AP says that in future all tenders will have to be structured along these lines, then so be it, however it is unreasonable to expect Contractors to agree to be paid less when other factors, such as fuel costs, lease repayments, maintenance costs, wages, etc, are not being reduced.

What will happen if you do not accept the variation? The answer will determine what course of action you can take. Will AP increase its offer to you? You must decide which payment structure will ensure the ongoing viability of your contract.

Advice to the Minister
POAAL has been in touch with the office of the Minister for Communications, Senator Helen Coonan, and made representations on behalf of Contractors. We have given them details of this situation and asked them to make their investigations with AP, thus making AP aware that the Minister knows of AP’s unilateral actions.

You can help by writing to the Minister and letting her know how you feel about AP's proposal and what impact it will have on the viability of your mail contract.
Write to:
Senator the Hon Helen Coonan
Minister for Communications
Parliament House
Canberra ACT 2600

Come along to one of POAALs meetings being held in the coming weeks:
Melbourne - 17 November - 6pm - East Bentleigh Scout Hall
Brisbane - 22 November - 5:30pm - Geebung Zillmere RSL
Sydney - 29 November - 6pm - Hurlstone Park RSL

Published on 11 November 2005

Contractor meetings in November

POAAL is holding meetings for Mail Contractors in Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney during November.

These meetings are open to all POAAL members who have a mail contract with Australia Post. This includes street mail contractors, parcel contractors, MessengerPost contractors, RSD contractors, depot bags contractors, and contractors with any other sort of mail contract.

Mail Contractor meetings are a great opportunity for networking with your fellow Contractors. Contractors will also be updated on National issues, including the recent changes to parcel fees proposed by Australia Post.

There will also be a lucky door prize at each meeting. Bring your POAAL membership card to be eligible to win.

If possible, please RSVP to the POAAL National Office so that we can have an idea of numbers attending each meeting, otherwise simply turn up on the night.

Melbourne meeting - Thursday 17 November, East Bentleigh Scout Hall

Brisbane meeting - Tuesday 22 November, Geebung Zillmere RSL Club

Sydney meeting - Tuesday 29 November, Canterbury Hurlstone Park RSL Club

We look forward to seeing you there.

If you would like a POAAL meeting held in your area, please contact the POAAL National Office, or your local POAAL Mail Contractor contact (listed in Postal News).

Published on 10 November 2005

Sydney meeting for Contractors - 29 November

POAAL's NSW Branch is holding a meeting for all delivery contractors on Tuesday 29 November in Sydney.

DATE: Tuesday 29 November 2005

TIME: 6pm start

VENUE: Canterbury Hurlstone Park RSL Club, "Segenhoe Room", entrance off 127 Crinan Street

Free parking available directly opposite the venue in Crinan Street.

• Discuss recent Contract changes proposed by Australia Post
• Great opportunity for networking with your fellow Contractors

There will be a lucky door prize for the meeting, so bring your POAAL membership card with you to be eligible to win!

If possible, RSVP by Friday 25 November to the POAAL National Office so that we can have an idea of numbers attending the meeting, otherwise just roll up on the evening.

Published on 9 November 2005

Brisbane meeting for Contractors - 22 November

POAAL's Queensland Branch is holding a meeting for all Mail Contractors (including Parcel Contractors, MessengerPost, RSD, and all other contractors) on Tuesday 22 November.

DATE: Tuesday 22 November 2005

TIME: 5:30pm start

VENUE: Geebung Zillmere RSL Club, cnr Newman Rd & Collins St, Geebung

• Discuss recent contract changes proposed by Australia Post
• Great opporunity for networking with your fellow Contractors
• Meet some of your local POAAL Mail Contractor contacts

Bistro meals are available at the Club at reasonable prices.

There will be a lucky door prize for the meeting so bring your POAAL membership card with you to be eligible to win!

If possible, RSVP by Friday 18 November to the POAAL National Office so that we can have an idea of numbers attending the meeting, otherwise just roll up on the night.

Published on 8 November 2005

Melbourne meeting for Contractors - 17 November

POAAL is holding a meeting for all Victorian Mail and Parcel Contractors on Thursday 17 November.

DATE: Thursday 17 November 2005

TIME: 6pm start (followed by Licensee meeting at 7:30pm)

VENUE: Scout Hall, Mackie Rd, East Bentleigh (Melway 69 C12)

Tea, coffee and biscuits will be provided.

• Mail & Parcel Contractors wil be updated on national issues
• Discuss recent contract changes proposed by Australia Post
• Great opportunity for networking with your fellow Mail Contractors

There will be a lucky door prize for the meeting, so bring your membership card with you to be eligible to win!

If possible, please advise the POAAL National Office by fax or by phone if you will be attending the meeting.

Published on 7 November 2005

AP proposal to vary parcel fee

Many Parcel Contractors have received a letter from AP regarding a proposal to alter (reduce) fees paid to Parcel Contractors.

AP apparently is proposing to introduce a new fee structure where Contractors can be paid on a sliding scale for multiple-parcel consignments. We understand that AP will make a commitment that no Contractor will be paid any less over the first six months under the new pricing scheme.

AP claims in its advice to Contractors that it has carried out an analysis of parcel delivery costs. No mention is made of how or where the analysis was carried out.

Under what authority is AP proposing to vary the contract? If you have received this advice from AP, do you agree with the proposed changes?

AP notes that its aim is to increase its competitiveness when pursuing new business. While it is pleasing that AP is pursuing new business, it is disappointing that it sees fit to simply look for ways to pay Contractors less in order to drive efficiencies.

Think very carefully before signing any agreement to vary your mail contract.

You should also carefully read Clause 8 of the General Conditions of your contract. If AP uses this clause to reduce your payments, they must comply with the terms of Clause 8.2 regarding serving notice and meeting with the Contractor.

Published on 1 November 2005

Parcel volumes during Christmas period

FedEx has announced that it expects record parcel volumes in the lead-up to Christmas this year.

At its peak, which is expected to be 12 December, FedEx has predicted that it will handle about 8.5 million articles in the USA. This is about 40% more than its average daily volume.

The increase in volume is in part due to an expected increase in online purchasing.

FedEx also expects that its website will process about 3.5 million online tracking requests per day during the peak period.

Published on 28 October 2005

AP 2005 Annual Report

Australia Post has released its Annual Report.

It can be viewed online at the Australia Post website.

Published on 18 October 2005

Meet 'n Eat in Cairns - 7 October

POAAL is holding a Meet 'n Eat in Cairns on Friday 7 October 2005.

Join with your fellow Licensees and Mail Contractors in Cairns for good food and lots of shop talk.

WHEN: Friday 7 October, 7pm

VENUE: Cazaly's, Mulgrave Rd, Cairns.

Host for the evening will be Dennis Jenner, POAAL Associate Director. Dennis has many years of experience both in the post office and as a Mail Contractor and will update both Licensees and Mail Contractors on National issues.

Please RSVP by 6 October by phone or fax to John Zappala at the Bungalow LPO.

Published on 27 September 2005

Impact of fuel prices on delivery costs

The US Postal Service's Postmaster General John E. Potter last week noted that every time the price of a gallon of petrol goes up one cent in the USA, it costs the US Postal Service US$8 million. Without doubt, rising fuel prices are having a financial impact on Australia Post's delivery network, and the pinch is felt most severely by Mail Contractors.

Will we see an increase in the use of hybrid electric vehicles by Australia Post? One major Canadian courier company has ordered hybrid electric vehicles for its delivery fleet.

POAAL has written to the Minister for Communications, Senator Helen Coonan, and also the Minister for Small Business, Fran Bailey MP, detailing the impact of rising fuel prices on Mail Contractors. POAAL has also been in contact with the office of the Shadow Minister for Communications, noting that it is impossible for Mail Contractors to directly pass costs on to consumers, and that Contractors can only seek financial relief through the review process detailed in the mail contract.

Published on 21 September 2005

Postie killed by her own vehicle

A postie working in North Carolina, in the USA, was killed when she tried to stop her vehicle from rolling backwards, reports the newspaper The Charlotte Observer.

The 69-year-old was killed when her mail vehicle, a Jeep Cherokee, ran over her. She had parked to deliver a certified item, requiring a signature, but when she left the vehicle it wasn't in gear and started rolling backwards down the sloping road.

The postie tried to stop the rolling vehicle, but was struck by the door and went under the front wheels. The vehicle continued to roll, skinning an apple tree, clipping another tree and knocking over two mail boxes.

Published on 20 September 2005

Clause 9 reviews

Contractors are reminded that they have to put in their own Clause 9 claim. No-one will do it for you! Check your contract for when you can apply for your Clause 9 review. For many contracts, that date is linked to the anniversary of when tenders closed, or twelve months from the previous application for a Clause 9 review.

Contractors should also carefully check the results of any review. Also check that you are paid backpay, where appropriate. If you don't check, then who will?

The bottom line is this: KNOW YOUR CONTRACT.

Published on 15 September 2005

Mail Contractor meeting in Adelaide - 27 September

A meeting for Mail Contractors will be held in Adelaide on Tuesday 27
September 2005.

DATE: Tuesday 27 September

VENUE: All Seasons Adelaide Meridien Hotel, North Adelaide

TIME: 5:30pm start.

Refreshments will be provided during the meeting and meals are available
at your own cost. Parking is free.

Speakers:
• SA/NT State Chairman, Rod Row, will host the meeting and give an LPO perspective on Mail Contractor matters
• A representative from insurance brokers GWS Genco Group will be present and will take questions
• Ian from the POAAL National Office will be attending and will update you on national Mail Contractor issues

You will have the opportunity to ask questions and to network with your
mail contractor colleagues.

Feel free to bring your mail contractor colleagues with you. Also bring
your POAAL membership card - there will be a lucky door prize drawn from
mail contractor members who have their card with them.

If possible, RSVP to the POAAL National Office by post or fax so that we
will have an idea of numbers attending the meeting, otherwise just roll
up on the day.

Published on 13 September 2005

Longreach Meet 'n Eat - 17 September

The POAAL Queensland Branch is holding a Meet 'n Eat for Licensees and Mail Contractors in Longreach this Saturday, 17 September.

Local Licensees and Mail Contractors are invited for an evening of good food and lots of shop talk. If you live within driving distance of Longreach, then why not treat yourself (and your partner) to a tax deductible meal in Longreach this Saturday night.

VENUE: Albert Park Motor Inn, Cnr Sir Hudson Fysh Drive & Stork St, Longreach.

TIME: Let's meet for drinks in the bar at 6:00pm then have dinner at the Oasis Restaurant

Host for the evening will be Dennis Jenner, POAAL Associate Director. Dennis has many years of experience both in the post office and as a Mail Contractor.

RSVP: We have to advise the Restaurant of numbers, so if you are able to attend RSVP to the POAAL National Office by midday Friday 16 September by phone 03 96544533 or by fax 03 96544577.

If you require accommodation at the Albert Park Motor Inn, their phone number is 07 4658 2411.

Published on 12 September 2005

New petrol discount programme

Mail Contractors are always looking for ways to reduce fuel costs. For a number of years Mail Contractors have been able to access fuels discount cards through membership of API. An API membership form is sent with POAAL membership receipts. If you have mislaid your API form and would like to apply for API membership, please contact the POAAL National Office.

Some Contractors in metropolitan areas have been able to access the "shopper docket" discount schemes offered at certain service stations. A new discount programme has been launched this year that will be available at a number of independent service stations.

The Service Station Association has launched SaveSmart, a discount petrol programme allowing independent service stations to offer 4c per litre discounts to customers.

Service stations that join the scheme are able to offer customers a 4c per litre discount on fuel purchases of up to 50 Litres. The discount will apply to all fuels sold at the service station, including LPG, and will not be restricted to petrol.

The SaveSmart service station promotion requires customers to purchase specially marked items available at service stations, such as bread, milk, bottled water, and soft drinks.

Each month at the participating service stations, customers will be able to obtain the petrol discount by purchasing one of the three promotional offers being run in the service station shop.

The scheme is designed to counter the discounts offered through supermarket and petrol station allieances such as Coles/Shell and Woolworths/Caltex.

The ACCC reviewed the shopper docket promotions in 2003 and 2004 and found that the schemes encouraged competition and lower prices in the fuel market. ACCC Chairman Graeme Samuel said early last year that "[the] ACCC considers that there are substantial benefits for consumers from shopper docket discounts. These offers are pro-competitive because they drive competition between supermarkets and petrol retailers. In addition to the effect on price, retailers must become more innovative in non-price factors, such as additional services, to gain or maintain market share."

The ACCC continues to monitor, on a case-by-case basis, any complaints of unconscionable behaviour in either the grocery or petrol retailing sectors.

For more information visit the SaveSmart website.

Published on 22 August 2005

Deed of variation - 2002 version contracts

Mail Contractors who hold contracts under the December 2002 or December 2002(Rev A) versions of the contract would have received a letter and Deed of Variation from AP Contracts in the past few days.

It appears that AP is amending the older contracts to standardise the wording along the lines of the most recent version of the mail contract. This includes decreasing the percentage movement threshold for extraordinary fuel variation reviews under clause 10.3, changing the elapsed period until a request for review can be made, and changing the elapsed period until a further request for review can be made.

The new clause 10.5 proposed under the Deed covers the concurrent operation of clause 9 and clause 10 of the mail contract. The new clause states that when a clause 10 fuel cost review coincides with a clause 9 review, only the results of the clause 9 review (which includes a fuel price review) will apply. The intention of this is to remove the possibility of requesting a further clause 10 review within three months of a clause 9 review.

In principle, this is a welcome move from AP. POAAL has been calling for more flexible arrangements with respect to fuel price variations for some time. While this is a step in the right direction, AP can still do much more to improve the conditions relating to fuel price reviews.

It should be noted that although the percentage threshold has been reduced from 10% to 7%, this is equally applicable to AP, that is, a reduction of only 7% in the wholesale price of fuel could trigger a review by AP to decrease payments.

Published on 17 August 2005

Scan & Win competition

Many Mail Contractors will be aware that AP is running a competition to encourage all those involved with the mail network to increase the accurate scan rates of eParcels.

POAAL wrote to AP requesting confirmation that Mail Contractors could participate in this competition.

Published on 14 July 2005

Unaddressed Mail Service (UMS)

There has been confusion in some areas about the guidelines for the delivery of unaddressed mail, also known as "householders". POAAL can confirm that unaddressed mail does not to have to be delivered on a specific day, even if your AP manager demands it.

The Australia Post Terms & Conditions (available on the AP website) note that for UMS, "delivery of articles shall be made between Monday to Friday of the nominated delivery week."

Furthermore, all UMS consignments given to Contractors must have a lodgement slip attached to it noting the number of articles, the article type, the customer, and so on. You should not deliver UMS unless you have received a proper AP lodgement slip.

Remember that under the terms of your mail contract you cannot accept UMS-type delivery items from non-AP sources for delivery while performing your AP mail contract.

Published on 28 June 2005

Sydney meetings - 10 July

POAAL's NSW Branch is holding meetings for Mail Contractors and Licensees on Sunday 10 July 2005.

DATE: Sunday 10 July

VENUE: Kokoda Room, Ramsgate RSL Club

TIME: 10:30 for Mail Contractors, 1:30pm for Licensees

Bistro meals are available at the club so please join us for lunch.

Speakers:
• A representative from insurance brokers GWS Genco Group will be present at both meetings and will take questions
• A representative from the CEPU will attend the Licensee meeting and will answer any questions Licensees may have on the Postal Services Industry Award for LPO staff
• POAAL NSW Committee members will be present

There will be a lucky door prize for each meeting so please bring your membership card with you.

Please RSVP by fax to the POAAL National Office on 03 96544577.

Published on 27 June 2005

AP uniforms for delivery contractors

As reported in the 2nd quarter 2005 edition of Postal News, AP has agreed to permit Mail Contractors to have access to AP uniforms. POAAL has pushed for this for some time, supported by Federal MPs.

Contractors have noted the benefits of AP-branded uniforms. The purchase of uniforms can be claimed as a tax deduction. More importantly, it makes it easy for members of the public to identify Contractors as being part of the AP delivery network.

Delivery Contractors contribute to AP's good name by efficiently and promptly performing mail and parcel deliveries, so Contractors should take advantage of this. And of course by wearing AP-branded uniforms, Contractors will be continuing to reinforce the AP brand. Ask your AP manager (in writing if necessary) for an order form for AP-branded uniforms.

Published on 24 June 2005

Late arrival of Express Post for delivery

A number of Contractors have noted a recent trend where Express Post mail is not ready for delivery when the Contractor is ready to leave to deliver on his/her contract. In many cases, the AP manager will call the Contractor and request that they return to the delivery centre (or mail centre or post office) to collect the Express Post mail for delivery.

If AP is asking you to return to collect Express Post mail, and demanding that it be delivered before noon, then you should invoice AP for time and kilometres for a variation of the route. Check clauses 9.5 and 9.6 of the General Conditions of your Mail Contract for more information.

Published on 21 June 2005

Queensland Mail Contractor meetings

Three meetings are being held for Mail Contractors in Queensland in the coming days.

Brisbane - Friday 17 June

TIME: 5:30 - 6:30pm

VENUE: Geebung Zillmere RSL Club, cnr Newman Rd & Collins St

Townsville - Sunday 19 June

TIME: 10am

VENUE: Southbank Hotel, 23 Palmer Street

Cairns - Monday 20 June

TIME: 5:30pm

VENUE: Cairns RSL Club, 115 Esplanade

POAAL's Dennis Jenner will be present at all three meetings.

A representative from Customs will speak at the Townsville and Cairns meetings.

Bring your POAAL membership card - there will be a lucky door prize at each meeting.

Feel free to bring your mail contractor colleagues with you.

Admission to these meetings is free! Another POAAL service to its members.

Published on 16 June 2005

Inaccurate tender information

Recently, POAAL has been approached by Mail Contractors concerned by cases where the information provided by AP in tender information packs (ie, length of run, number of delivery points, mail volumes, etc) does not accurately reflect the work expected of the successful tenderer when they commence work on the mail contract.

POAAL is seeking information from any contractor (whether RSD, parcels, street, etc) where the information supplied to them in the tender information pack proved to be different from what was required of the Contractor once the contract was commenced.

For example, if there were 100 more delivery points to be serviced than were stipulated in the tender information pack. (Consider other areas that were measured and included in the tender information pack such as run times, run lengths, mail volumes etc.)

Any information you may be able to provide will be appreciated. All information will be treated as confidential.

Please send any information you may have to POAAL as soon as possible. You can phone or fax the POAAL National Office, or you can email to: tender_info@poaal.com.au

Published on 13 June 2005

Honda CT110 postie bikes

POAAL has been in contact with Honda national representatives regarding the availability to Mail Contractors of new CT110 motorbikes.

Honda has confirmed that all Mail Contractors are now able to buy CT110 postie bikes direct from Honda dealerships.

Contractors must obtain a letter from AP stating that they are indeed a mail contractor for Australia Post. The contractor can then take the letter to a Honda dealership, where a CT110 will be ordered. Availability is dependent upon stock.

The retail price for a CT110 is $3960. The Honda dealer may add freight for dealerships located outside of capital cities. The new bikes do not come fitted with bags. Contractors will be expected to pay their own registration etc.

Honda would not comment on the retail price paid by AP per bike. At this stage Honda will not extend the AP pricing to Mail Contractors, and would not consider offering a group discount to POAAL members - but we'll ask again!

Published on 3 June 2005

Oil prices

Mail Contractors are acutely aware of fluctuations in fuel prices.

The price paid at the pump has three main parts - cost to the retailer of the product, tax, and retail/distributor margin. This last component is margin, not profit. That is, the retailer has to pay all of their overheads out of that margin.

Obviously, the price of petrol varies in line with the price of crude oil. A $US1 increase in the price of a barrel of oil usually translates into a 1c per litre rise at the pump.

Global oil prices aside, taxes make up a considerable portion of the price paid at the pump. Federal Government excise and GST account for about 47c per litre on petrol priced at $1 per litre.

Published on 1 June 2005

Superannuation choice

From July, new Federal Government legislation will come into effect which gives many employees the right to choose which superannuation fund will receive their employer superannuation guarantee contributions. This is known as choice of superannuation fund.

If you make superannuation contributions for any of your employees (even if they are casual or part-time) you should become familiar with your obligations as an employer under choice of superannuation fund.

For more information visit the Super Choice website or ring 13 28 64.

Published on 22 May 2005

Victorian Mail Contractor meeting - 7 June

The Victorian Branch will be holding a Branch meeting on the evening of Tuesday 7 June.

DATE: Tuesday 7 June

TIME: 6pm start (followed by meeting for Licensees at 7:30pm)

VENUE: South Oakleigh Club, Victor Road, South Oakleigh

A representative from insurance brokers GWS Genco Group will be present at the meeting and will take questions.

Mail Contractors will be updated on national issues.

This is a great opportunity for networking with your fellow Mail Contractors.

There will be a luncky door prize for the meeting so please bring your membership card with you to be eligible to win!

If you would like to have a meal at the Club before or after the meeting, you must ring the club first on 9579 4855 and book for the meal.

RSVP to the POAAL National Office by fax on 96544577 (or by phone on 96544533) if you are attending the meeting.

Published on 18 May 2005

2005/06 Membership & Insurance

Membership and insurance renewals for the 2005/06 financial year will soon be sent to POAAL Mail Contractor members. Forms will be sent as soon as the insurance rates for 2005/06 are finalised. Insurance certificates will be issued for public liability insurance, marine cargo insurance and PDT insurance. Please ensure that you give AP copies of your certificates and that you retain the originals. It has been known for AP to mislay originals!

If you are a Mail Contractor and not yet a member of POAAL, call the POAAL National Office on (03) 96544533 for information on membership and insurance.

POAAL's new insurance broker, GWS Genco Group, now has a national 1300 number. To contact GWS Genco Group from anywhere in Australia for the cost of a local call, dial 1300 881 229.

GWS Genco Group can provide quotations on a variety of insurances.

Published on 27 April 2005

Meet 'n Eat in Kendenup - 15 May

The POAAL WA Branch invites Licensees and Mail Contractors to a Meet 'n Eat in Kendenup on Sunday 15 May.

DATE: Sunday 15 May

TIME: 10am for Mail Contractors, shared barbecue or picnic lunch at noon, followed by a Licensee meeting at 1pm.

VENUE: Kendenup Hall, Hassell Avenue, Kendenup

Dennis Jenner will be present at the meeting to update members on national Licensee and Mail Contractor issues and to listen to your views.

Join us for a barbecue lunch (BYO snags, bread, etc), or if you prefer bring your own picnic lunch, and chat with your fellow Licensees and Mail Contractors.

There will be a lucky door prize at the meting, so remember to bring along your POAAL membership card.

RSVP by 13 May to the POAAL National Office by fax on 03 96544577.

Published on 16 April 2005

Ex-AP CT110 bikes

POAAL wrote to AP requesting that Mail Contractors be able to access postie bikes from AP as the bikes become available. AP gave an undertaking that Mail Contractors would be advised as these bikes became available.

We are pleased to see that AP has met their undertaking already in South Australia, by advising SA Mail Contractors that AP is sending 15 to 20 used Honda CT110s to Pickles Auctions this month.

Published on 6 April 2005

New Insurance Broker

POAAL is pleased to announce that GWS Genco Group has been appointed insurance broker for POAAL and its master policies. There has been continuous coverage for those of you who have taken out public liability, personal accident, marine cargo or PDT insurance with POAAL membership.

GWS Genco Group can provide a wide range of insurances to POAAL members, including business insurance, home insurance, personal insurance, etc. Their experienced staff can be contacted on 1300 881 229 (Melbourne callers 9459 3388).

We have impressed upon our new brokers the importance of delivering excellent premiums to Mail Contractors to help keep costs down.

Published on 30 March 2005

POAAL National Office

The telephone system at the POAAL National Office is being upgraded, commencing Friday afternoon 11 March. The POAAL National Office will be unable to take telephone or fax queries from members during this time. Monday 14 March is a public holiday in Melbourne, and the telephone upgrade should be completed by the afternoon of Tuesday 15 March.

We apologise for any inconvenience. If members have any urgent queries, these should be forwarded to your State Committee. Contact details for your State Committee members can be found in Postal News.

Published on 10 March 2005

Postal Industry Ombudsman Update

The Postal Industry Ombudsman Bill is expected to be introduced in the Senate on Monday 7 March.

Prior to last October's federal election, both the Liberal Party and the Labor Party committed to setting up a Postal Industry Ombudsman (PIO).

The first discussion paper regarding a PIO in Australia was published in 2002, and POAAL has supported the concept from the beginning. POAAL made a detailed submission in response to the discussion paper. It was pleasing to see that many of our suggestions were incorporated into the PIO model.

This week POAAL has been in contact with the Minister's office and also the Shadow Minister's office, reminding them of POAAL's support for the PIO.

The PIO will provide a mechanism for customers to resolve disputes with Australia Post, and possibly customer complaints against other postal operators. It will also provide another avenue for Licensees, Mail Contractors and Community Mail/Postal Agents to air issues relating to postal matters.

On the whole, if correctly implemented, the PIO should lead to an even more reliable and professional postal service in Australia.

Published on 4 March 2005

Mail Contractor dispute resolution process

During the Senate Estimates hearing on 15 February 2005, Shadow Minister for Communications Senator Stephen Conroy raised the matter of dispute resolution for disputes between Mail Contractors and AP.

Senator Conroy noted his understanding that the only dispute resolution procedure available to Mail Contractors under the terms of their contract is expensive and beyond the reach of the average Mail Contractor. He asked if AP would consider the issue and provide a low-cost, easy-to-use dispute resolution procedure to help resolve disputes between AP and its contractors.

AP responded that they have very low level of dispute or complaint from Mail Contractors. Senator Conroy then noted that his understanding was that there is no litigation underway because it is too costly to Mail Contractors. AP appeared to choose to misunderstand the question, pointing out various aspects of the review process.

Senator Conroy also asked AP to estimate the cost for resolving Mail Contractor disputes, and AP has taken that question on notice.

A copy of the transcript can be downloaded from the Parliament House website.

Published on 25 February 2005

Uniforms for Mail Contractors

The Shadow Minister for Communications, Senator Stephen Conroy, pressed AP managers to respond to questions and points of interest to Mail Contractors during Senate Estimates hearings on 15 February 2005.

Following discussions recently with POAAL, one matter that Senator Conroy raised was that of Australia Post uniforms being made available to Mail Contractors.

In response to questions in Senate Estimate sessions in 2003 AP noted that one of the reasons for their demands that Contractors become incorporated was so that Contractors would be able to access the AP uniform.

Senator Conroy observed that corporate delivery staff and MessengerPost contractors wear AP uniforms, and asked if AP would extend the practice to mail contractors. AP pointed out that while Contractors would not be "issued" with uniforms, its delivery arm should have a "consistent presentation" and AP has clothing available for contractors to purchase.

A copy of the transcript can be downloaded from the Parliament House website.

Published on 23 February 2005

Orange Area Meet 'n Eat

The NSW Branch is holding a Meet 'n Eat for Licensees and Mail Contractors in the Orange Area on Thursday 3 March.

DATE: Thursday 3 March

TIME: 6:30pm for 7:00pm

VENUE: RSL Club, Anson Street, ORANGE

Members and their partners are invited to come and share in a dinner (at your own cost) and lots of shoptalk!

NSW Committee members, Conrad Silvester and David Jones, will be present and will update you on the latest developments and answer any questions and participate in a general discussion.

RSVP: by 1 March to the POAAL National Office (Ph: 03 96544533 Fax: 03 96544577)

If you have any queries please ring Conrad Silvester at East Orange LPO.

Published on 4 February 2005

WA Mail Contractors Meeting - 30 January

A meeting for WA Mail Contractors is being held in Perth on Sunday 30 January at the Ascot Inn.

The meeting will commence at 1:30pm. Tea and coffee will be supplied. Mail Contractors are invited to a light lunch for POAAL members which will be served at 1pm.

Local POAAL representatives will be present. POAAL members are also welcome to bring other contractor colleagues to the meeting.

Please RSVP by 25 January to the POAAL National Office by phone on 03 96544533 or by fax on 03 96544577.

If you are coming from out of town and want to stay overnight, ring the Ascot Inn on 9277 8999 and ask about their special accommodation rates.

Here's a great opportunity to meet your fellow Mail Contractors, learn more about the industry and most important of all NETWORK!

Published on 16 January 2005

Membership Drive

By now all POAAL members should have received the 4th quarter 2004 edition of Postal News which gives details on POAAL's new mail contractor membership drive. Refer a mail contractor for POAAL membership and if they join before 15 January 2005 POAAL will send you a $40 Coles Myer Gift Card.

It's simple! Hand the referral form to any mail contractors you know who aren't POAAL members, and recommend they join.

There's no limit on the number of mail contractors you sign up - financial POAAL members will receive a gift card for every new mail contractor member signed up under this offer before 15 January 2005.

Details are included with the current edition of Postal News. If you want more referral forms, please ring the POAAL National Office.

Published on 26 November 2004

Post-election Update

The 2004 federal election is over, the Coalition has been returned to Government and all that remains now is for a few tight contests and Senate seats to be decided. Many thanks to all those Licensees and Mail Contractors who lobbied candidates during the election campaign, reminding them of the valuable work done by people who are contracted to Australia Post.

POAAL also lobbied strongly during the campaign and it was good to see that the major parties acknowledged the work put in by Licensees and Mail Contractors.

We note that the Coalition, which has been returned to parliament, pledged to keep Australia Post in public ownership. The Coalition says it remains committed to the current regulatory arrangements and has no intention of introducing any further postal deregulation.

POAAL also notes the Coalition’s commitment to securing passage of the Postal Industry Ombudsman Bill 2004. POAAL fully supports the introduction of the PIO.

We will be following the Coalition’s small business paper Promoting an Enterprise Culture with a great deal of interest.

The Coalition has advised us that they "...look forward to continuing [their] positive and constructive working relationship with POAAL in the future."

We appreciate the work done by various MPs supporting the role of Licensees and Mail Contractors over the past parliamentary term. POAAL will be doing its best to ensure that all re-elected and new members of parliament are made aware of the role of the people that the current Minister for Communications, Senator Helen Coonan, called "the backbone of the postal industry" and "a key part of the postal sector and [who] have an important role to play not only in delivering postal services but also within the communities in which they operate."

We will introduce ourselves to the relevant portfolio holders now that the Cabinet has been announced by the Prime Minister. POAAL will continue to lobby and work for Licensees, Mail Contractors and Postal Agents.

Published on 31 October 2004

Coalition Postal Policy

The Coalition's policy can be downloaded from the Liberal Party website. You will need Acrobat reader to display the file.

POAAL representatives met with Joe Hockey MP, Minister for Small Business and Tourism, late in September. The meeting was positive and constructive. Mr Hockey pointed out that the Coalition was keen to look after the interests of small business, and referred to their policy document Promoting an Enterprise Culture.

Published on 30 September 2004