Assignment of Postcodes

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Why have postcodes?
Postcodes are allocated to geographic areas to facilitate the efficient processing and delivery of mail to customers. The current four digit numeric postcode system was introduced in 1967 in association with the first mechanised mail processing centre in Australia.

Who is responsible for naming localities and defining boundaries?

The government land administration agencies in each state are responsible for gazetting locality names and boundary positions.

Postcodes are only allocated to localities officially gazetted by State land agencies. In the majority of circumstances, a postcode covers an area comprising of more than one locality.

Unofficial or non–gazetted localities are not recorded in the Australia Post postcode database.

While land agencies are responsible for the gazettal of localities, the local council or shire recommends localities and their proposed boundaries for gazettal. Customers having concerns in relation to a locality should, in the first instance, contact their local council or shire.

How does Post determine if a new or existing postcode is to be allocated?

The decision as to whether a new postcode or an existing postcode is to be allocated to a locality is based on operational efficiency. Issues that underpin the decision are critically analysed; these include the configuration of the Australia Post network, transportation connections and delivery arrangements.

Why change an existing postcode?

Because the adoption of new or changed postcodes by customers is slow, changes are only made where significant reasons for change are established. A postcode change will only be considered if such a change leads to either enhanced service to our customers or operational efficiency to the organisation. Any such change will involve consultation with the local council/shire and residents.

Australia Post’s procedures involve implementing any postcode change from a specified date and the Corporation takes action to ensure that either postcode can be processed from the date of effect for a limited period without reducing service to customers.

Postcode Booklet

The Postcode Booklet has over 10,000 place names listed and should be adequate for most customers’ correspondence requirements.

However, if a particular place name cannot be found, a full list of localities and their postcodes is available here. Alternatively our postcode enquiry service is available by contacting 13 13 17.

Can other Organisation use Postcodes?

Australia Post cannot restrict what other organisations may use postcodes for in their operations and/or systems. However, these organisations need to recognise that postcodes are maintained solely for mail processing purposes.