Australia Post

 cancellations – how to easily cancel your subscription or service

Australia Post offers a range of services, from online shopping and parcel delivery to mail redirection and PO Box rentals, and cancellation policies vary by service type.

• Online Shop Orders: Generally can’t be cancelled once submitted, except under Australian Consumer Law. Use the returns process instead if needed.
  
  
• Mail Redirection / Hold Services: Can be cancelled any time by the original applicant via a specific form and ID verification.
  
  
• PO Box & Other Services: Often only cancelled at the end of the service period by not renewing. Mid-term cancellation is uncommon and usually not refunded.
  
  
• Posted Items: Parcels in transit usually can't be cancelled. The “Withdrawal from Post” service can attempt to intercept, but isn’t guaranteed and involves a fee.
  
  

In most cases, change-of-mind cancellations are restricted. Eligibility depends on service type, timing, and providing the right documentation (e.g. ID, receipt).

1. Mail Redirection or Hold

• Fill out the Alter or Cancel form.
  
  
• Bring the form and ID to a post office.
  
  
• Optionally, authorise someone else with ID and signed letter.
  
  

2. Online Shop Order

• Contact customer service ASAP.
  
  
• If not yet shipped, they may be able to help.
  
  
• Otherwise, wait for delivery and request a return.
  
  

3. Parcel Interception

• Request a “Withdrawal from Post” at the post office.
  
  
• Pay the non-refundable fee.
  
  
• Follow up with customer service using your tracking and receipt numbers.
  
  

4. Other Services (e.g. PO Boxes, MyPost)

• Cancel via online account settings or call support.
  
  
• For third-party or partner services, follow linked instructions.
  
  

Always document your interactions (screenshots, names, dates) for proof.

Timing matters:

• Mail Redirection: Cancel as soon as you no longer need it. Only unused months (excluding the first) are refunded.
  
  
• Auto-Renewals: Cancel before renewal dates (e.g. PO Box rental).
  
  
• Online Orders: Call ASAP. There’s only a short window to stop dispatch.
  
  
• Parcel Intercepts: Request within 24 hours of sending. Delaying reduces the chances of success.
  
  
• Returns: 60-day window for most change-of-mind returns.
  
  
• Billing Cycles: You’re charged upfront; cancel before a new period starts to avoid extra fees.
  
  

Set calendar reminders and act early to avoid charges or service lapses.

While Australia Post doesn't typically charge formal cancellation fees, some key costs include:

• Mail Redirection: No fee to cancel, but first month is non-refundable.
  
  
• Parcel Interception: ~$29 non-refundable attempt fee.
  
  
• Return Shipping: If you return items, you usually pay postage (unless faulty).
  
  
• Lost Discounts: Refunds may be calculated at non-discounted rates.
  
  
• No Hidden Penalties: No fee for canceling service appointments or subscriptions.
  
  

The main “cost” is often the lost value of an unused service, not a fee itself.