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Australia Post

Australia Post Tracking

Please enter the Australia Post tracking number to check the latest shipping status.

TRACK

About Australia Post

Australia Post is the consumer brand of Australian Postal Corporation, Australia’s designated postal operator and a parcel, mail, retail and ecommerce logistics provider. Australia Post operates domestic postal and parcel services in Australia, provides international outbound services from Australia, receives inbound international postal items for Australian last-mile delivery, and works with postal operators, customs authorities, airlines, line-haul providers and StarTrack for different parts of the transport chain.

Australia Post Core Facts

FactVerified value
Official nameAustralian Postal Corporation, trading as Australia Post.
Official websitehttps://auspost.com.au/
Carrier typeNational postal operator, domestic parcel carrier, international postal carrier and last-mile delivery provider in Australia.
Primary regionAustralia for domestic collection, processing and delivery; international outbound and inbound through postal and carrier handoffs.
Tracking pageAustralia Post Track
Parent organizationAustralian Postal Corporation is a government business enterprise of the Australian Government.
Founded and headquartersAustralia Post reports its corporate history through the Australian postal service and Australian Postal Corporation; current public pages should be checked before using a legal founding date or headquarters in time-sensitive copy.

Carrier Entity Relationships

EntityRelationship to Australia Post
Australian Postal CorporationAustralian Postal Corporation is the legal corporation that trades as Australia Post.
View all details for Australian Postal Corporation
Entity typeCanonical carrier and statutory postal corporation.
Why it matters to trackingOfficial tracking, delivery management, complaints and service terms are published under the Australia Post brand and legal corporation.
Official evidenceAustralia Post corporate and annual reporting pages identify Australian Postal Corporation and the Australia Post brand.
Parcel Post and Express PostParcel Post and Express Post are domestic parcel services operated by Australia Post.
View all details for Parcel Post and Express Post
Entity typeOperated domestic services.
Why it matters to trackingThe service selected affects delivery standard, scanning coverage, extra cover options and whether a next-business-day network applies.
Official evidenceAustralia Post parcel sending and domestic delivery standard pages describe these services.
MyPost and AusPost appMyPost and the AusPost app are Australia Post customer tools for tracking, notifications and eligible delivery preferences.
View all details for MyPost and AusPost app
Entity typeTracking and delivery management products.
Why it matters to trackingSome parcel options, alerts, redirection requests or collection preferences may require a MyPost account or identity checks.
Official evidenceAustralia Post tracking, app and MyPost support pages describe these tools.
Australia Post facilities and Post OfficesAustralia Post processing facilities, parcel facilities and Post Offices appear in scans during sorting, transfer, collection and delivery.
View all details for Australia Post facilities and Post Offices
Entity typeKey network and facility entities.
Why it matters to trackingA facility scan means the item is within a network location; a collection-point scan means the recipient may need to collect before the holding period ends.
Official evidenceAustralia Post tracking status help and Post Office locator pages support these roles.
StarTrack and postal partnersStarTrack is an Australia Post Group parcel and freight business, while overseas postal operators may originate or deliver international postal items exchanged with Australia Post.
View all details for StarTrack and postal partners
Entity typeGroup carrier and international or last-mile partners.
Why it matters to trackingA StarTrack or origin-post number may be trackable in Australia Post systems without being issued by Australia Post for the origin leg.
Official evidenceAustralia Post Group and international delivery pages distinguish Australia Post, StarTrack and cross-border partners.
17TRACK17TRACK aggregates available tracking events for Australia Post and many other carriers but does not transport parcels or approve claims.
View all details for 17TRACK
Entity typeIndependent multi-carrier tracking platform.
Why it matters to tracking17TRACK is useful when an ecommerce shipment moves through Australia Post plus another carrier, postal operator or marketplace logistics provider.
Official evidence17TRACK carrier tracking and API documentation describe multi-carrier tracking registration and query workflows.

Quick Answer

To track an Australia Post package, enter the tracking number from the sender, receipt, shipping email or parcel label on Australia Post Track or use 17TRACK to view available multi-carrier events. If tracking is empty, first check that the number is not an order number, that spaces or dashes were removed, that the sender has actually handed the item to a carrier, and that Australia Post is the correct carrier for the current leg.

Pro Tip: 17TRACK is an independent tracking platform. 17TRACK can help you follow scans across carriers, but Australia Post, the sender, the marketplace or the destination carrier must handle address changes, delivery instructions, refunds, investigations and claims.

How to Track an Australia Post Package

Use the official Australia Post tracker when Australia Post is carrying the item in Australia, and use 17TRACK when the parcel may have multiple carriers or an overseas origin post before Australia Post delivery.

Tracking Methods

MethodBest use
Australia Post TrackUse for official Australia Post events, delivery options, collection notices and help actions linked to an Australia Post parcel.
AusPost app or MyPost accountUse when you want saved parcels, notifications and eligible delivery preferences associated with your account.
17TRACKUse when the shipment may involve an overseas postal operator, marketplace logistics, a line-haul provider or another last-mile carrier.
Sender or marketplace order pageUse when you have only an order number, the item has not been dispatched, or the merchant has not provided the carrier tracking number.
  1. Copy the tracking number exactly as shown on the Australia Post receipt, label, email, SMS, app or merchant dispatch notice.
  2. Remove extra spaces, dashes and accidental punctuation; keep any letters in an international S10 number such as XX ######### AU.
  3. Track on Australia Post first for official domestic events, then check 17TRACK if the parcel moved through another origin carrier or destination carrier.
  4. If the result says no tracking yet, ask the sender whether the parcel was physically lodged; a label or manifest can exist before Australia Post has the parcel.

A tracking number identifies a parcel or tracked mail item. An order number identifies a purchase. A reference number is a sender or merchant identifier and may not be accepted by public tracking. A delivery notice number may help with pickup or redelivery but is not always the same as the parcel tracking number.

Tracking Number Formats and Examples

Australia Post tracking identifiers vary by service, channel and cross-border handoff. A number that can be tracked by Australia Post is not necessarily issued by Australia Post; inbound international items often keep the origin postal operator’s S10 number after Australia Post receives the item in Australia.

Tracking Number Format

Identifier familyNormalized pattern
Australia Post domestic parcel trackingNumeric or alphanumeric parcel identifier; format is service and channel dependent.
View all details for Australia Post domestic parcel tracking
Length/structureAustralia Post does not publish a single universal public rule for all domestic parcel numbers; examples commonly contain long numeric strings or letters plus digits.
Issued byAustralia Post or an Australia Post shipping system used by a sender.
Typical service/useParcel Post, Express Post parcels, prepaid satchels, Post Office lodgements and online labels.
Who sees it and whereSenders see it on receipts and labels; buyers see it in dispatch emails, marketplace order pages or the AusPost app after association.
Tracking scopeUsually covers acceptance, processing, transit, onboard for delivery, delivered, collection and exception events within Australia Post visibility.
Important caveatDo not infer the exact domestic service from the first digits alone; use official tracking or sender documentation.
UPU S10 international outbound from AustraliaAA ######### AU, where AU identifies Australia as the issuing postal administration.
View all details for UPU S10 outbound identifiers
Length/structureThirteen characters: two service indicator letters, nine digits including check digit, and two-letter country code AU.
Issued byAustralia Post for eligible international postal items sent from Australia.
Typical service/useTracked international parcels, Express or registered-type postal products depending on service purchased and current rules.
Who sees it and whereAustralian senders see it on the lodgement receipt or label; overseas recipients may see the same number after dispatch.
Tracking scopeAustralia Post origin scans, export events, handoff to destination postal operator, and destination events if exchanged.
Important caveatThe first two letters indicate a postal identifier family, not a complete guarantee of product, speed or compensation.
Inbound S10 number from another postal operatorAA ######### CN, US, GB, NZ or another origin country code.
View all details for inbound S10 identifiers
Length/structureThirteen-character UPU S10 format with the origin postal administration’s country code at the end.
Issued byThe origin postal operator, not Australia Post.
Typical service/useInternational ecommerce parcels and postal items entering Australia for Australia Post last-mile delivery.
Who sees it and whereThe overseas merchant, origin post and Australian recipient may all see the origin number in tracking emails and public trackers.
Tracking scopeOrigin post scans, export handoff, import visibility and Australia Post delivery events when data is exchanged.
Important caveatAustralia Post can display and deliver an inbound number without being the issuing carrier for the origin leg.
StarTrack or group shipment identifierCarrier-specific identifier shown by the sender, StarTrack or Australia Post Group systems.
View all details for StarTrack or group identifiers
Length/structureFormat varies by StarTrack service and shipper system.
Issued byStarTrack or an integrated business shipping platform.
Typical service/useBusiness parcels, freight-style deliveries and contracted services where StarTrack is the operating carrier.
Who sees it and whereBusiness recipients and marketplace buyers may see it in dispatch emails or carrier portals.
Tracking scopeTrack on the carrier indicated by the sender; 17TRACK may help identify the correct carrier.
Important caveatStarTrack is related to Australia Post Group but should not be assumed to be the same tracking system for every parcel.
Merchant order or reference numberStore-created order ID, invoice ID or reference ID; not a carrier format.
View all details for merchant references
Length/structureAny format chosen by the merchant or marketplace.
Issued bySeller, marketplace or warehouse system.
Typical service/useOrder lookup, customer service and fulfilment matching.
Who sees it and whereBuyer order page, invoice, customer account or receipt.
Tracking scopeNot normally trackable on Australia Post unless the merchant maps it internally to a carrier tracking number.
Important caveatAsk the seller for the carrier tracking number if only an order reference is available.

Tracking Statuses and Meanings

Australia Post tracking follows a lifecycle from shipping information to lodgement, processing, transport, customs or handoff where applicable, delivery, pickup, exception or return. The status should be read with the latest location and service type.

Status Quick Lookup

StatusLifecycle stage
Shipping information received or awaiting itemPre-shipment
View all details for awaiting item
What it meansThe sender has created a label, manifest or electronic advice, but the parcel may not yet be physically accepted by Australia Post.
Current responsible partySender, warehouse or pickup partner until an acceptance scan appears.
What happens nextThe parcel is lodged, picked up or transferred for the first physical scan.
What you should doAsk the sender for the lodgement date if this status does not change after dispatch.
We have got it or acceptedAccepted
View all details for accepted
What it meansAustralia Post has received the parcel or scanned it into its network.
Current responsible partyAustralia Post or an authorised network location.
What happens nextThe parcel moves to sorting, processing or transport.
What you should doMonitor normal updates; no action is needed unless service-standard or delay guidance indicates a problem.
In transit or processed at facilityIn transit
View all details for in transit
What it meansThe item is being sorted, transported or transferred between facilities.
Current responsible partyAustralia Post, its transport network or a contracted transport partner.
What happens nextArrival at another facility, delivery centre or handoff point.
What you should doCheck the official delivery estimate and service alerts before escalating.
International arrival, held by customs or awaiting clearanceCustoms/Handover
View all details for customs or handover
What it meansThe parcel is in an import, export, border inspection or postal exchange process; arrival does not equal customs release.
Current responsible partyCustoms or border agencies, Australia Post, the origin post or destination post depending on the scan.
What happens nextRelease, request for information, duty/tax handling, return or onward delivery.
What you should doRespond to official requests and avoid assuming a fixed customs timeline.
Onboard for deliveryOut for delivery
View all details for onboard for delivery
What it meansThe parcel has been loaded for delivery by a delivery driver or postie route.
Current responsible partyLocal Australia Post delivery operation or delivery contractor.
What happens nextDelivered, attempted delivery, safe-drop where allowed, or taken to a collection point.
What you should doCheck delivery preferences and be available if signature or access is required.
DeliveredDelivered
View all details for delivered
What it meansAustralia Post recorded delivery to the address, safe-drop location, parcel locker, collection point or authorised recipient.
Current responsible partyRecipient after delivery, unless a delivery dispute is opened.
What happens nextProof of delivery or delivery evidence may be available for eligible services.
What you should doCheck mailbox, safe-drop areas, reception, household members and neighbours before reporting non-receipt.
Awaiting collectionPickup
View all details for awaiting collection
What it meansThe item is at a Post Office, parcel locker or collection location after an attempted delivery or direct-to-collection service.
Current responsible partyAustralia Post collection location until collected or the holding period expires.
What happens nextThe recipient collects it, arranges an eligible option, or the item may be returned if not collected.
What you should doBring required ID and the collection notice or tracking number.
Unable to deliver, attempted delivery or delivery issueException
View all details for delivery issue
What it meansDelivery could not be completed because of access, address, signature, safety, payment, customs or operational reasons.
Current responsible partyAustralia Post, recipient, sender or customs depending on the exception text.
What happens nextAnother delivery attempt, collection, information request, return or investigation.
What you should doFollow the action in tracking and contact the sender if address correction or customs paperwork must be supplied by the shipper.
Returning to senderReturn
View all details for returning to sender
What it meansThe parcel is being sent back because it was refused, undeliverable, uncollected, restricted, unpaid or otherwise could not continue.
Current responsible partyAustralia Post or the partner carrier moving the return.
What happens nextThe sender receives the item or gets return-event evidence.
What you should doRecipients should contact the sender for replacement or refund options; senders should monitor return delivery.

Services and Delivery Times

Australia Post delivery time depends on origin, destination, service, lodgement time, weekends and public holidays, remote-area routing, customs and service disruptions. Use Australia Post’s current calculator or delivery standard page for postcode-specific or destination-specific estimates.

Service Comparison

ServiceService type
Parcel PostDomestic standard parcel service.
View all details for Parcel Post
Best forEveryday parcel sending within Australia.
CoverageAustralian addresses, subject to serviceability and restrictions.
Tracking levelTracked parcel events where scanning is available.
Key size/weight conditionCurrent parcel size, weight and packaging limits must be checked on Australia Post sending guides.
Included protection/extra serviceCompensation and Extra Cover rules vary by product and terms.
Main limitationNot the fastest option and delivery speed varies by route.
Express PostDomestic express parcel and letter service.
View all details for Express Post
Best forTime-sensitive domestic sending within eligible Express Post routes.
CoverageAustralia, with fastest standards applying only within the Express Post network and subject to lodgement conditions.
Tracking levelTracked events for parcels and eligible articles.
Key size/weight conditionDepends on envelope, satchel, parcel and current packaging limits.
Included protection/extra serviceExtra Cover and signature options may be available depending on product.
Main limitationEstimated speed is not the same as a universal guarantee for every address or disruption.
International StandardInternational tracked parcel service from Australia.
View all details for International Standard
Best forTracked parcels to overseas destinations where speed is less urgent than express.
CoverageSelected international destinations subject to destination availability and restrictions.
Tracking levelOrigin, export and destination events where partner data is supplied.
Key size/weight conditionCountry-specific limits and customs documentation apply.
Included protection/extra serviceExtra Cover may be available for eligible destinations and contents.
Main limitationCustoms and destination post performance can create visibility gaps.
International ExpressFaster international parcel service from Australia.
View all details for International Express
Best forMore urgent international parcels to eligible countries.
CoverageDestination-dependent international coverage.
Tracking levelTracked events with partner-country visibility where supported.
Key size/weight conditionCountry limits, customs forms, security and contents restrictions apply.
Included protection/extra serviceService features vary by country and current terms.
Main limitationExpress transport does not remove customs or destination restrictions.

Delivery Time

ServicePublished delivery standard
Parcel PostVaries by origin, destination and current Australia Post domestic delivery standards.
View all timing details for Parcel Post
Business or calendar daysAustralia Post delivery standards are generally expressed in business days where applicable.
Guarantee statusCheck current terms; delivery estimates are not the same as refund guarantees.
Starts counting fromLodgement or acceptance into the Australia Post network, not label creation.
Main delay factorsCut-off time, public holidays, remote addresses, weather, route disruptions, address quality and missed scans.
Official source date/validityUse the current Australia Post delivery times and service updates pages before promising a date.
Express PostFastest standards apply only within eligible Express Post network routes and conditions.
View all timing details for Express Post
Business or calendar daysBusiness-day standards are used where published.
Guarantee statusCheck official terms for any current guarantee, suspension or refund rules.
Starts counting fromFrom eligible lodgement before the cut-off, not from order placement.
Main delay factorsNetwork eligibility, late lodgement, public holidays, remote delivery, unsafe access and service disruptions.
Official source date/validityUse Australia Post Express Post delivery standard and service update pages.
International StandardVaries by destination, customs, airline capacity, origin cut-off and destination postal delivery.
View all timing details for International Standard
Business or calendar daysPublished estimates are destination-specific and may use business-day language.
Guarantee statusUsually an estimate unless a specific official guarantee applies to the service and destination.
Starts counting fromAfter lodgement and export processing begins.
Main delay factorsExport processing, aviation routing, customs, import taxes, destination post backlog and incomplete declarations.
Official source date/validityUse Australia Post international delivery estimate and destination guide pages.
International ExpressVaries by eligible destination and customs; faster transport does not guarantee customs clearance.
View all timing details for International Express
Business or calendar daysDestination-specific estimate should be checked at time of sending.
Guarantee statusDo not treat the estimate as a universal money-back guarantee.
Starts counting fromEligible lodgement and acceptance, subject to cut-off and export processing.
Main delay factorsCustoms inspections, destination restrictions, airline capacity, security checks and missing recipient information.
Official source date/validityUse current Australia Post international service pages and service alerts.

Common Tracking Problems and Solutions

Most Australia Post tracking problems come from label-before-lodgement timing, wrong identifier type, carrier handoff gaps, customs processing, delivery access issues or a mismatch between seller promises and carrier service standards.

Problem & Solution

Problem/status shownLikely cause
Invalid numberWrong carrier, order number, typo, incomplete S10 number or unsupported reference.
View all details for invalid number
Check firstCompare with receipt or seller email and remove spaces or dashes.
Immediate actionTry Australia Post and 17TRACK carrier detection.
When to escalateIf the seller cannot provide a carrier tracking number after dispatch.
Who to contactSender or marketplace first; Australia Post only if it recognises the number.
No tracking or awaiting itemLabel created but parcel not yet scanned by Australia Post.
View all details for no tracking
Check firstAsk whether the item was lodged or only packed.
Immediate actionWait for the first physical acceptance scan after lodgement.
When to escalateWhen the sender says it was lodged but no acceptance appears after normal scan timing.
Who to contactSender if no acceptance scan; Australia Post if acceptance appears.
Stuck in transit or long time no updateLine-haul movement, missed scan, remote route, disruption or customs gap.
View all details for stuck in transit
Check firstDelivery standard, service alerts and last scan location.
Immediate actionMonitor until the official help page says the item is late enough to enquire.
When to escalateUse Australia Post enquiry options when the item is outside the expected window for its service and route.
Who to contactRecipient can enquire about delivery; sender may need to start compensation or insurance processes.
Shipping partner handoffA partner, seller or origin post has announced the parcel before Australia Post receives it.
View all details for partner handoff
Check firstWhether the latest scan is from the origin carrier or Australia Post.
Immediate actionTrack with both the origin carrier and 17TRACK.
When to escalateIf the origin carrier says it handed over but Australia Post has no receiving scan after the normal interchange gap.
Who to contactSeller or origin carrier before Australia Post receives the item.
Address issue or failed deliveryIncomplete address, access problem, signature requirement or unsafe delivery condition.
View all details for failed delivery
Check firstTracking message, collection notice, address on the order and available delivery options.
Immediate actionFollow Australia Post redirection, collection or enquiry instructions if eligible.
When to escalateBefore the item is returned or if the address cannot be corrected by the recipient.
Who to contactRecipient for access or collection; sender for address correction or replacement.
Customs holdBorder inspection, duty or tax assessment, prohibited goods check or missing information.
View all details for customs hold
Check firstOfficial customs notice, payment request or document request.
Immediate actionRespond only through official channels and prepare invoice or content details.
When to escalateIf customs or Australia Post requests information and the sender must supply it.
Who to contactCustoms authority, Australia Post or sender depending on the notice.
Delivered but not receivedSafe drop, delivered to reception, household pickup, wrong location or scan dispute.
View all details for delivered but not received
Check firstMailbox, parcel locker, front door, safe place, concierge, neighbours and proof of delivery if available.
Immediate actionReport non-receipt through Australia Post tracking help and tell the sender.
When to escalateIf local checks fail and tracking still shows delivered to your address.
Who to contactRecipient can report delivery concern; sender may need to lodge a claim or replacement request.
Lost or damaged parcelItem cannot be located, contents damaged, packaging compromised or missing contents.
View all details for lost or damaged parcel
Check firstService, tracking history, photos, packaging, proof of value and sender terms.
Immediate actionKeep packaging and contents, take photos and open an Australia Post enquiry where eligible.
When to escalateWhen official enquiry or claim rules for the service allow investigation or compensation.
Who to contactSender for ecommerce refund or replacement; Australia Post for carrier enquiry or claim eligibility.

International Shipping, Customs and Carrier Handoffs

For international parcels, Australia Post may be the origin postal operator, the destination last-mile carrier in Australia, or one carrier in a chain. Electronic advice, physical handover, import clearance and delivery responsibility are different events.

International Flow

StagePhysical custodian/responsible entity
Origin acceptanceAustralia Post for outbound AU-origin items, or the overseas postal operator for inbound items.
View all details for origin acceptance
Typical tracking eventAccepted, lodged, received by postal operator.
What is happeningThe parcel enters the origin carrier’s physical network.
Can the tracking number change?S10 postal items usually keep the same identifier; commercial partner items may be associated with another last-mile number.
Normal visibility gapShort gap before processing scans; longer if seller created a label before lodgement.
What the customer should doConfirm the sender actually lodged the item.
Export processing and securityOrigin postal operator, export gateway, aviation security and border processes.
View all details for export processing
Typical tracking eventProcessed for departure, awaiting departure, handed to airline or export scan.
What is happeningThe item is sorted, screened and prepared for international transport.
Can the tracking number change?Usually no for S10 postal items.
Normal visibility gapMay occur while waiting for transport or batch scans.
What the customer should doCheck service alerts and restricted-goods rules if movement stops at export.
Line-haul transportAirline, transport provider or postal exchange channel.
View all details for line-haul transport
Typical tracking eventDeparted country, in transit to destination or no scan while travelling.
What is happeningThe parcel is physically moving between countries or awaiting onward transport.
Can the tracking number change?Normally unchanged for postal tracking; partner numbers may be linked behind the scenes.
Normal visibility gapCommon because transport legs are not always scanned publicly.
What the customer should doWait for destination arrival unless the shipment exceeds official enquiry thresholds.
Import customs and destination exchangeDestination postal operator, customs and border agencies.
View all details for import customs
Typical tracking eventArrived in destination country, awaiting customs clearance, held by customs or released.
What is happeningThe parcel is presented for import processing; taxes, duties or inspections may apply.
Can the tracking number change?S10 can continue; some destination carriers create internal delivery references.
Normal visibility gapCustoms does not publish a universal fixed processing time.
What the customer should doRespond to official requests for payment or documents and avoid paying unofficial messages.
Destination last mileAustralia Post for inbound deliveries in Australia, or destination postal/carrier partner for outbound AU parcels overseas.
View all details for destination last mile
Typical tracking eventProcessed by destination facility, onboard for delivery, delivered, awaiting collection or attempted delivery.
What is happeningThe final delivery carrier is routing the parcel to the recipient.
Can the tracking number change?Usually the public S10 remains usable; a local carrier reference may also appear.
Normal visibility gapGap can occur between customs release and first local delivery scan.
What the customer should doTrack with the destination carrier named in the latest event and prepare ID for pickup if required.

Delivery Management and Post-shipment Options

Australia Post delivery options depend on the parcel, service, sender restrictions, delivery stage and identity checks. Options shown in tracking or the AusPost app are the safest guide for a specific parcel.

Delivery Management

OptionWho can request
Delivery preferences or safe dropRecipient where the parcel and sender allow it.
View all details for delivery preferences
EligibilityAvailable only for eligible parcels and addresses.
Deadline/available stageBefore final delivery action when the option appears in tracking or app.
FeeCheck the option shown by Australia Post; fees may vary or not apply.
Guaranteed?No; safety, access, signature and sender restrictions can prevent it.
Official action linkManage your deliveries
Redirect a parcelRecipient or account holder where Australia Post makes redirection available.
View all details for parcel redirection
EligibilityDepends on service, sender restriction, destination and delivery stage.
Deadline/available stageBefore the parcel is too far into delivery processing.
FeeCheck current Australia Post terms for any fee.
Guaranteed?No; requests may be unavailable or unsuccessful if too late.
Official action linkRedirect parcels in transit
Parcel Locker or Post Office collectionRecipient, if the service and location support collection.
View all details for collection options
EligibilityDepends on item size, service, availability, identity requirements and location.
Deadline/available stageWhen the parcel is addressed to or transferred to an eligible collection point.
FeeCheck current Australia Post collection service rules.
Guaranteed?No; oversize, restricted, signature or sender conditions can limit collection.
Official action linkParcel Lockers
Proof of delivery or signature evidenceSender or recipient depending on service and available evidence.
View all details for proof of delivery
EligibilityAvailable only where the service records signature, delivery evidence or collection confirmation.
Deadline/available stageAfter delivery or attempted delivery event.
FeeDepends on product and current terms.
Guaranteed?Evidence availability depends on service features and delivery method.
Official action linkAustralia Post help and support

Lost, Damaged, Claims, Insurance and Refunds

An Australia Post tracking enquiry, missing parcel investigation, compensation claim, Extra Cover claim, postage refund and seller refund are separate processes. The sender is often the party with the contract, proof of lodgement and value evidence, while the recipient can usually report delivery concerns and damage evidence.

Claims and Refunds

ProcessUse when
Tracking enquiryThe parcel is delayed, has no recent scan, or tracking needs investigation.
View all details for tracking enquiry
Who filesRecipient or sender depending on issue and available information.
Earliest/latest filing timeUse the current Australia Post help workflow, which applies thresholds by service and expected delivery.
Required evidenceTracking number, sender details, recipient address, lodgement date and last scan.
Possible outcomeStatus update, investigation, delivery instruction, confirmation of delay or claim guidance.
Official linkHelp and support
Lost or damaged item compensationA parcel is confirmed lost, damaged or missing contents and the service terms allow compensation.
View all details for compensation
Who filesUsually the sender or eligible claimant with proof of posting and value; recipients should coordinate with the sender.
Earliest/latest filing timeCheck current compensation and Extra Cover rules for the service before filing.
Required evidenceTracking number, proof of lodgement, proof of value, photos, packaging and contents for damage claims.
Possible outcomeCompensation, denial, request for more evidence, or referral to sender/merchant refund process.
Official linkDelayed, lost or damaged items
Postage refundThe postage or service purchased qualifies for a refund under current Australia Post terms.
View all details for postage refund
Who filesUsually the purchaser or sender with transaction proof.
Earliest/latest filing timeDepends on product, payment channel and refund reason.
Required evidenceReceipt, label, transaction ID, tracking number and reason for refund.
Possible outcomeRefund, credit, rejection or instruction to contact the place of purchase.
Official linkHelp and support
Marketplace seller refund or replacementThe buyer needs order-level remedy for non-delivery, damage or wrong item.
View all details for seller refund
Who filesBuyer through the merchant or marketplace order system.
Earliest/latest filing timeMarketplace policy controls buyer protection deadlines.
Required evidenceOrder number, tracking, photos, delivery dispute notes and communication history.
Possible outcomeRefund, replacement, reshipment, denial or carrier investigation requested by the seller.
Official linkUse the seller or marketplace order page.

17TRACK cannot approve Australia Post claims, refund postage, change the delivery address or issue ecommerce refunds.

Shipping Restrictions and Special Handling

Australia Post restrictions vary by domestic or international service, aircraft transport, destination country, customs law and dangerous goods rules. The summary below is not a substitute for current Australia Post prohibited and restricted item rules.

Shipping Restrictions

CategoryProhibited or restricted
Dangerous goodsRestricted or prohibited depending on item, service and transport mode.
View all details for dangerous goods
Typical examplesAerosols, flammable liquids, explosives, gases and some chemicals.
Key condition/packagingMust meet Australia Post and transport-law conditions if allowed.
Transport limitationAir transport may be unavailable for many dangerous goods.
Possible tracking/delivery impactReturn, seizure, delay, disposal or investigation.
Official rulesProhibited items
Batteries and electronic devicesRestricted, especially lithium batteries and devices containing batteries.
View all details for batteries
Typical examplesPower banks, lithium cells, phones, laptops and battery-powered tools.
Key condition/packagingDeclaration, packaging, device installation and quantity limits may apply.
Transport limitationSome battery types cannot travel by air or internationally.
Possible tracking/delivery impactSecurity hold, return or removal from air network.
Official rulesDangerous and prohibited items
International customs-restricted goodsRestricted or prohibited by destination country and Australian export rules.
View all details for customs-restricted goods
Typical examplesFood, plant material, medicines, cosmetics, animal products and high-value goods.
Key condition/packagingAccurate customs declaration, invoices, permits or destination documentation may be needed.
Transport limitationDestination-specific import bans and permits apply.
Possible tracking/delivery impactCustoms hold, tax request, return, seizure or destruction.
Official rulesInternational Post Guide

Customer Service

Start with tracking, then use Australia Post help pages for parcel enquiries, delivery issues, complaints and service-specific actions. Prepare the tracking number, lodgement date, sender and recipient details, latest scan, contents description, value proof and photos for damage.

Customer Service

ChannelVerified contact/link
Official trackingAustralia Post Track
View all details for official tracking
Best forLatest official tracking events and eligible parcel actions.
Region/languageAustralia Post online service in English.
Hours and time zoneOnline availability; carrier processing updates depend on scans.
Information to prepareTracking number and delivery postcode when requested.
Important limitationTracking cannot change the physical parcel outcome by itself.
Help and supportAustralia Post Help and support
View all details for help and support
Best forDelayed, lost, damaged, delivery problem, refund, account and complaint pathways.
Region/languageAustralia Post support in English.
Hours and time zoneCurrent hours or contact forms are shown on the help page.
Information to prepareTracking number, service, sender, recipient address, scan history, item value and photos.
Important limitationSome claims require sender evidence or proof of lodgement.
Contact us pageContact Australia Post
View all details for contact us
Best forCurrent phone, messaging, enquiry or complaint options routed by issue type.
Region/languageAustralia and international users seeking Australia Post support.
Hours and time zoneUse the official page for current hours and time zone because availability changes.
Information to prepareTracking number, address, account details and evidence relevant to the issue.
Important limitationDo not rely on third-party phone numbers or unofficial social-media replies for payment requests.
Post Office locatorFind a Post Office or service point
View all details for Post Office locator
Best forCollection, lodgement, parcel locker location and local service availability.
Region/languageAustralia locations in English.
Hours and time zoneLocation-specific hours shown in the locator.
Information to prepareCollection notice, tracking number, government ID and any pickup authorisation.
Important limitationA Post Office may not be able to resolve a parcel still in transit or held by customs.
ComplaintsComplaints and feedback
View all details for complaints
Best forEscalation after normal enquiry channels have not resolved the issue.
Region/languageAustralia Post customers and senders.
Hours and time zoneUse official complaints page for current process and response time expectations.
Information to prepareCase number, tracking number, previous contact history and desired resolution.
Important limitationRegulatory or ombudsman routes may require that Australia Post first has a chance to resolve the complaint.

Ecommerce and Business Tracking

Consumers usually need official tracking and delivery options. Ecommerce teams need batch visibility, carrier identification, exception monitoring, status normalization and notifications across Australia Post, StarTrack, overseas posts and marketplace logistics.

Developer/API Comparison

OptionProvider
Consumer web trackingAustralia Post
View all details for consumer web tracking
Carrier coverageAustralia Post parcels and international items visible to Australia Post.
Primary useSingle-shipment tracking and recipient actions.
AuthenticationNo developer authentication for public tracking; account may be needed for some delivery options.
Tracking/batch/webhook capabilityDesigned for user lookup rather than enterprise batch automation.
Current developer documentationNot a developer API.
Migration/deprecation noteNot applicable.
Australia Post business APIsAustralia Post
View all details for Australia Post business APIs
Carrier coverageAustralia Post services available through approved business integration products.
Primary useBusiness shipping, lodgement, labels, rates, tracking or account-integrated workflows depending on API access.
AuthenticationRequires official developer registration or business credentials where available.
Tracking/batch/webhook capabilityUse official developer documentation for current capability; public endpoint details must not be assumed.
Current developer documentationAustralia Post Developers
Migration/deprecation noteCheck official developer notices for current API products, migration requirements and retired services.
Multi-carrier tracking API17TRACK
View all details for 17TRACK API
Carrier coverageAustralia Post plus many other carriers supported by 17TRACK.
Primary useBatch registration, standardized tracking events, exception monitoring and multi-carrier ecommerce tracking.
Authentication17token header with a 17TRACK API key.
Tracking/batch/webhook capabilityRegistration and tracking APIs are documented by 17TRACK; webhook availability depends on account plan and API setup.
Current developer documentation17TRACK API documentation
Migration/deprecation noteUse the current v2.4 endpoint shown in the documentation for new integrations.

FAQ

1. How do I track my Australia Post package?

Enter the tracking number on Australia Post Track or use 17TRACK when the shipment may involve more than one carrier. Use the official tracker for delivery options and 17TRACK for aggregated carrier visibility.

2. Where can I find my Australia Post tracking number?

The tracking number is usually on the Post Office receipt, parcel label, dispatch email, SMS, AusPost app, MyPost account or marketplace order page. If you only have an order number, ask the seller for the carrier tracking number.

3. What does an Australia Post tracking number look like?

Domestic Australia Post parcel numbers can be numeric or alphanumeric, while international postal items commonly use the UPU S10 pattern with two letters, nine digits and a country code such as AU for Australia. Australia Post does not publish one universal public pattern for every domestic service.

4. When will the first tracking update appear?

The first physical tracking update normally appears after the item is lodged, picked up or scanned into the Australia Post network. A label or electronic advice can appear before Australia Post physically has the parcel.

5. Why is my Australia Post tracking not updating?

Tracking may pause during transport, customs, remote routing, partner handoff or missed scans. Check the official delivery standard and service alerts before opening an enquiry.

6. How long does Australia Post delivery take?

Delivery time depends on the service, lodgement time, origin, destination, public holidays, remote routing, customs and disruptions. Use Australia Post’s current delivery calculator or service pages for the route-specific estimate.

7. What should I do after a failed Australia Post delivery?

Follow the action shown in tracking, such as collecting from a Post Office or parcel locker, arranging an eligible option or contacting support. Bring the tracking number, collection notice and required ID for pickup.

8. What if Australia Post says delivered but I have not received it?

Check the mailbox, safe-drop location, parcel locker, reception, household members and neighbours first. If the parcel is still missing, report the delivery issue to Australia Post and notify the sender because the sender may need to start a claim or replacement process.

9. How do I report a lost or damaged Australia Post parcel?

Open an Australia Post help enquiry for eligible delayed, lost or damaged items and keep evidence such as tracking, proof of value, photos, contents and packaging. For ecommerce orders, also contact the seller for refund or replacement options.

10. How do I contact Australia Post customer service?

Use the Australia Post Help and support or Contact us pages for current enquiry channels, forms, phone options and complaint routes. Prepare the tracking number, addresses, lodgement date, last scan and evidence before contacting support.

11. Why can Australia Post track a number that ends with another country code?

An inbound international postal item can keep the origin operator’s S10 number after Australia Post receives it in Australia. Australia Post can display delivery events for that number without being the carrier that issued it overseas.

12. Does “awaiting item” mean Australia Post lost my parcel?

No, “awaiting item” usually means tracking information exists before the first physical Australia Post scan. Ask the sender whether the parcel has actually been lodged or only had a label created.

13. Can I infer the Australia Post service from the tracking number prefix?

You should not rely on a prefix alone to infer service, speed or compensation. Domestic identifiers vary by channel, and S10 letter prefixes identify postal identifier families rather than every commercial product condition.

14. What happens when an international parcel reaches customs in Australia?

The parcel may be assessed by border agencies for admissibility, taxes, duties, documentation or inspection before Australia Post can complete delivery. Arrival in Australia does not automatically mean customs release.

15. Can the Australia Post tracking number change during delivery?

UPU S10 postal items usually continue under the same public number, but some commercial, StarTrack or partner shipments may have linked carrier references. Use 17TRACK or the sender’s dispatch page if two numbers appear.

16. Can businesses track Australia Post shipments through an API?

Businesses should check Australia Post Developers for current official API access and requirements, and can use the 17TRACK API for multi-carrier tracking workflows. Do not copy old Australia Post endpoint examples unless they are confirmed in current official developer documentation.

Tracking API

// 1. Australia Post official tracking API
// Current public official tracking API endpoint, method, authentication,
// request body and migration status must be confirmed in the current
// Australia Post Developers documentation before implementation.
// Do not reuse legacy endpoint examples unless your Australia Post
// developer account and current documentation confirm they are active.

// 2. 17TRACK API: register an Australia Post tracking number
// 17TRACK carrier code for Australia Post was not confirmed in this page build,
// so keep CARRIER_CODE as a placeholder and verify it in 17TRACK carrier data.

POST https://api.17track.net/track/v2.4/register
Headers:
  17token: YourKey
  Content-Type: application/json

Body:
[
  {
    "number": "TRACKING_NUMBER",
    "carrier": "CARRIER_CODE"
  }
]

Sources & References

Disclaimer: 17TRACK is an independent tracking platform and is not affiliated with Australia Post.

A professional and stable global package tracking platform.

17TRACK
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