Trying to cancel Australia Post? Avoid the runaround.
Can you cancel your Australia Post subscription? Check eligibility and conditions
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).
How to cancel a Australia Post subscription, service or order
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.
How long does a Australia Post cancellation take?
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.
Australia Post cancellation fees and final charges – what to expect
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.
Australia Post cases submitted through Ajust
I paid for International Express shipping but had to cancel and repurchase the label due to a small mistake in the weight. Australia Post wouldn't refund the original $248.80 even though it was never used. Having to spend another $270 felt unfair for something I caught myself. - Jessica
I paid nearly $1500 for Australia Post’s mail redirection, but for over a month, confidential patient mail for my medical practice wasn’t being redirected. It was left in public spaces or just lost. I had to chase them repeatedly, and still had to ask for a refund. - Donna
Consumer experiences with Australia Post cancellations
“Quick Action Saved My Parcel”: One user successfully intercepted a parcel by calling early Monday morning, which is proof that acting fast works.
"Interception Attempt Failed”: Another customer paid for parcel recall but it arrived before it could be stopped. They lost the fee.
“Mail Redirection Refund Received”: A user cancelled 4 months into a 12-month term and received a smooth pro-rata refund.
Australia Post Cancellation FAQs
Can I cancel any Australia Post service at any time?
No, not all Australia Post services can be cancelled anytime-eligibility depends on the type of service. Mail redirection and hold services can usually be cancelled by the original applicant, but PO Boxes and online shop orders often have stricter rules. For subscriptions, timing and documentation matter, so check specific terms before assuming you can opt out.
How do I cancel a mail redirection or PO Box service?
To cancel mail redirection, complete a form and bring it to a post office with ID; PO Boxes are usually cancelled by not renewing. Early cancellations for PO Boxes are rare and often non-refundable. For both, make sure you're the original applicant and have proof of identity to ensure the process is accepted smoothly.
What happens if I try to cancel a parcel already sent?
Once a parcel is in transit, Australia Post generally can’t stop it-but you can request a “Withdrawal from Post” for a fee. This is not guaranteed and must be done quickly-ideally within 24 hours. Always document your tracking details and act fast if you want to attempt an intercept.
Are there any fees or refunds when cancelling Australia Post services?
There are no formal cancellation fees for most services, but refunds are limited and some charges are non-refundable. For example, you won’t get a refund on the first month of mail redirection, and intercepting a parcel costs around $29. The biggest cost is often the lost value of unused time, not a fee itself.
Tried to cancel but Australia Post made it difficult?
We’ll help you submit a formal cancellation they can’t ignore.