Australia Post’s ‘underpaid postage’ fees persist despite claims of accurate scanning

Small businesses that ship parcels through Australia Post are receiving invoices for “underpaid postage” after the items have already been delivered. The fees are described by owners as unfair and as cutting directly into already thin profit margins.

Australia Post says its automatic size and weight scanning system is “highly accurate”, checked every day and independently verified under the National Measurement Act. The carrier argues this technology ensures a consistent, fair approach for all customers.

Fashion boutique owner Sam Kemp, who runs her shop in regional Victoria, says the extra charges are financially stressful and “silently killing small businesses”. She added that she has already adjusted packaging and shipping methods, yet the fees keep returning.

Professor Jeannie Paterson, a Melbourne University professor who specialises in consumer protection law, warned that the practice could breach contract terms. She called for greater transparency around the scanning data and a straightforward process for businesses to dispute any errors.

The Commonwealth Ombudsman reported that complaints about underpaid postage made up less than 0.5 % of all postal industry complaints, so it is not launching a systemic investigation. However, the Ombudsman noted concerns raised in 2024, which prompted Australia Post to adjust tolerance levels, add controls to prevent multiple parcels being weighed together, and improve calibration and record‑keeping.

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