Australia Post has backed down on a ban to ship perishable goods, saying it's now making a "long-term" commitment to carrying food, across Australia.
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Australia Post's acting group chief executive Rodney Boys said the announcement provided certainty to many businesses who relied heavily on the organisation to ship their produce to customers.
In April, Australia Post announced it would no longer carry perishable goods, such as food, from June 30, only to pause that decision a short time later.
"Due to the complex food safety requirements differing across states and territories, Australia Post will discontinue the carriage of certain foods destined for consumption across the delivery network from June 30, for a small number of customers," the network said.
But after what is said was a "thorough review" of the industry, and consultation with small business food producers, it has committed to continue shipping perishable goods across the country.
The review also covered consultation with key industry bodies and experts, and Australia Post will update relevant regulators of the outcomes.
"We understand it's critical for businesses to meet growing consumer demands for home delivered food and groceries, and Australia Post remains fully committed to supporting both our customers and consumers with the ongoing carriage of food through our network", Mr Boys said.
"We recognise and apologise for the uncertainty felt by some customers as this review took place.
"The transportation of food in Australia is complex and highly-regulated and we have moved as quickly as possible to provide a clear promise to our customers that there will be no change to how we support them."
He said customers would be aware Australia Post's ambient temperature network would not always be suitable.
"We continue to encourage our customers to consider using appropriately insulated packaging and additional temperature control devices to help maintain freshness and help ensure the food is in a good condition when it arrives."
Mr Boys thanked Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman Bruce Billson for working with Australia Post and his assistance in helping reach an outcome in delivering a long-term, sustainable solution to support this growing eCommerce industry.
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