What is Australia Post's return policy?
Can you return an item to Australia Post? Check eligibility first
Australia Post accepts change-of-mind returns only for specific items - mainly unused prepaid satchels and envelopes - within 60 days of purchase, provided they’re in original condition with proof of purchase.
- ✅ Eligible for refund: Unused Express Post or Parcel Post satchels/envelopes (in original packaging).
- ❌ Not eligible: Gift cards, stationery, electronics, and partially used bundles.
- 🧾 Keep your receipt or proof of purchase.
- ⚖️ Consumer law still applies for faulty, damaged, or incorrect items. There's no strict time limit, but act promptly.
- 🧷 Returns for logistics services (like retailer parcel returns) follow the retailer’s return rules, not Australia Post’s.
How to return an item to Australia Post
🛍️ Purchased at a Post Office? Bring the unused satchel and your receipt back to the original outlet (or any Post Office) within 60 days for an on-the-spot refund.
🖥️ Bought online? Call Australia Post (13 76 78) to start a return. You’ll be guided through packing and posting it, and may receive a return label if the product is faulty.
📦 Returning a parcel for another retailer?
- Check the retailer’s return policy first.
- Use their return portal or label.
- Drop it at a Post Office, Parcel Locker, or post box.
- Keep your tracking number as proof of lodgement.
Australia Post return timeframes and item conditions
⏳ 60 days for change-of-mind returns on eligible Australia Post shop items.
⚠️ No firm deadline for faulty goods, just “within a reasonable time.”
📅 Retailer parcel returns follow the retailer’s timeframe (e.g., 14–30 days).
📨 Returns must be in original condition, unused, and packaged properly.
🔁 Refunds begin once returns are received and approved. This can be instant in-store, or take a few business days online.
Who pays for Australia Post return shipping?
- 🔄 Change of mind (AusPost items): Return in-store for free. If posting back, you pay postage.
- ⚠️ Faulty or incorrect items: Australia Post may cover return shipping or reimburse costs if a fault is confirmed.
- 📦 Retailer returns via AusPost:
- If Reply Paid/prepaid label: you pay nothing.
- If not: postage costs may apply unless the return is due to a fault.
- International returns: usually at your expense unless the retailer provides a label.
- If Reply Paid/prepaid label: you pay nothing.
💡 Always check the retailer’s instructions before mailing anything.
Australia Post refunds after a return - how and when you’ll get your money back
- 💳 Refunds go back to your original payment method (card, PayPal, or cash).
- ⚡ In-store refunds = same-day.
- 📨 Online returns = processed after inspection. Often within 2–7 business days.
- 📩 You'll get an email confirmation once your refund is issued.
- 🛑 Returns not in resaleable condition may be rejected or partially refunded.
- 🔎 Always keep your lodgement receipt and tracking number.
Australia Post cases submitted through Ajust
I paid nearly $250 for an international return label but couldn't use it because of a weight error. I had to buy a second one for $270 just to get the item sent. I’m still waiting for a refund on the first label, which feels unfair for a service I didn’t even use. - Jessica
Customer experiences with Australia Post returns
Smooth & simple: Many users report easy returns at Post Offices or via prepaid retailer labels, especially with brands like ASOS and The Iconic.
Surprise cost: Some shoppers were caught off guard when they had to pay return postage for change-of-mind returns.
Retailer delay: Occasionally, refunds are held up by retailers, not Australia Post. Tip: track your parcel and follow up once it’s delivered.
Australia Post Return FAQs
Can I return something I bought from Australia Post if I just changed my mind?
Yes, but only unused prepaid satchels or envelopes in original condition with a receipt can be returned within 60 days. Australia Post does not accept change-of-mind returns for items like gift cards or stationery. To avoid being caught out, check the product category and keep your proof of purchase handy.
What should I do if I received a faulty item from Australia Post?
Faulty or incorrect items can be returned without a strict time limit, and Australia Post may cover return shipping. You’ll need to call customer support or visit a Post Office to start the process. Acting quickly with proof of purchase increases your chance of a fast resolution.
How do I return a parcel I bought from another retailer via Australia Post?
Use the retailer’s return policy and label, then drop it at a Post Office, locker, or post box-tracking is essential. Australia Post just handles the delivery. Always follow the retailer’s return instructions to avoid delays or rejection.
Will I have to pay for return shipping with Australia Post?
For change-of-mind returns, in-store is free, but mailing it back costs you. Faulty items may be covered. If you’re returning a retailer’s item, postage depends on whether they gave you a prepaid label. Check first to avoid surprise costs.
Every day you wait, your refund gets harder.
Don’t let the return window close. Let’s check if you’re still covered.