Posties are being injured on the roads at least five times a week and drivers need to keep an eye out, Australia Post says.
In the 2024-25 financial year, over 280 posties were injured in third-party traffic accidents ranging from broken limbs and concussions to lacerations and serious trauma.
Many of these incidents resulted in hospital treatment, time off work and ongoing trauma, the postal service says.
COMMON ACCIDENTS INVOLVING POSTIES
Failure to give way at intersections and roundabouts.
Not leaving enough space to stop safely.
Cutting corners.
Overtaking on the wrong side of the road.
Driving while using a mobile phone.
E-scooter and e-bike riders not looking while using footpaths.
Australia Post General Manager Safety Russell Munro says the numbers are deeply concerning.
“Every day, our team members are out delivering for Australians but increasingly they’re being put at risk by unsafe driver behaviour,” he says.
“We are taking measures such as reducing our motorcycle fleet, expanding the (use) of electric delivery vehicles (eDVs), and implementing telematic systems, including video and data monitoring, across thousands of vehicles.”
Munro says their data shows that the severity of injury to a postie in a motor accident decreases if they are driving a semi-enclosed eDV.
“In some instances, our team have walked away from the accident with only minor injuries,” he says.
“Our priority is to deliver while ensuring the safety of our team members so they return home to their families safely.
“However, road safety is a shared responsibility, and we urge all drivers to keep an eye out for our posties,” Mr Munro said.
SAFETY TIPS
Put your mobile phone out of reach when driving.
Slow down when approaching roundabouts.
Use your mirrors and check your blind spots before turning or changing lanes.
When reversing out of your driveway, toot your horn and move slowly.
Keep your distance. Leave a large gap to the car in front so you can stop safely.
Do not drive when drowsy.
Do not drive if you have taken alcohol or other drugs.
Source: Australia Post
For more information on Australia Post’s safety programs visit www.auspost.com.au/safety.
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