Redirection or hold?
When a mail hold ends, Australia Post says your mail is delivered as addressed on the next business day or as soon as possible. Check current prices on the Australia Post pages before applying; this guide does not list fees.
| Service | What it does | Length |
|---|---|---|
| Mail redirection | Forwards letters and parcels from your old address to your new address. | 1, 3, 6 or 12 months |
| Mail hold | Stores letters and parcels securely, then delivers them when the service ends. | 1 week to 12 months |
Before you apply
- Proof of identity. Australia Post requires it for both redirection and hold.
- A concession card, if you are applying for a concession service.
- The names to include. You can add up to 6 names, for example people you live with or a name you used before marriage.
- Whether you want Australia Post to notify selected organisations, such as insurers or energy providers, of your new address. This is optional.
Where to apply
If you have been affected by family and domestic violence, a natural disaster, or you are managing a deceased estate, Australia Post has a separate special-circumstances page. Read it to see whether it applies to you.
| Your situation | Where |
|---|---|
| Personal redirection within Australia | Online or at a Post Office, depending on the service. |
| Redirection overseas | At a Post Office only. It cannot be processed online. |
| Home office, SMSF or trust | At a Post Office only. |
| Concession mail hold | In person at a Post Office, with proof of identity and your concession card. |
Limits on overseas redirection
Some mail cannot be redirected overseas, including Registered Post, Cash on Delivery, Parcel Post, Express Post and items that need customs documentation.
Australia Post cannot redirect mail from an overseas address to an Australian address. Contact the postal service in that country instead.
Extending, changing or cancelling
Depending on the service, you can extend, alter or cancel online, by phone or at a Post Office. Have your 9-digit customer reference number ready.
For help, including adding a name or fixing a spelling mistake, call 1300 739 826, visit a Post Office or use the online enquiry form linked from Australia Post's page.
Common questions
Can I redirect mail from overseas to Australia?
No. Australia Post says it cannot redirect mail from an overseas address to an Australian address. Contact the postal service in that country.
What do I need to change my existing service?
Your 9-digit customer reference number. Depending on the service, you can make changes online, by phone or at a Post Office.
Official information
- Australia Post: mail redirection and mail hold
Proof of identity, concession card, changes and the reference number, help line, and overseas limits. Sources checked 8 October 2026.
- Australia Post: mail redirection
Redirection lengths, up to 6 names, optional notification, where each service is applied for, special circumstances. Sources checked 8 October 2026.
- Australia Post: mail hold
Hold lengths, delivery when the hold ends, and in-person concession applications. Sources checked 8 October 2026.