Home

The Postal Industry Ombudsman (PIO) investigates complaints about the provision of a postal or similar service.

The PIO is a function of the Commonwealth Ombudsman and is independent of both complainant and postal agency.

Making a complaint

You can make a complaint to the PIO if you think you have been treated unfairly by Australia Post or a Private Postal Operator registered under the Ombudsman Act 1976. You should try to resolve your complaint with the postal operator before contacting the PIO. Also see our section on common complaint themes.

What is a PPO?

A Private Postal Operator is a company which handles the mail as listed in the definition used by the PIO.

Becoming a registered Private Postal Operator

Registration as a Private Postal Operator is voluntary and free. For information on how to register see section ‘For postal operators’.

Complaints the PIO cannot investigate

The PIO can only consider complaints about a postal or similar service. The Commonwealth Ombudsman can consider complaints about Australia Post that do not relate to these services, for example tendering and contract matters.