Moving home: How to redirect your mail

Moving house is a complicated process and can sometimes be an inconvenience even months after the actual move date. A perfect example is mail. Fortunately, mail redirecting services make the address change a lot easier and are usually available for up to 12 months after activation.

As much as we'd all like to escape our bills, it's best not to ignore the convenience of mail redirecting. The process is relatively simple and affordable and can be organised at your local post office.

How to redirect mail

Australia Post offers mail redirecting services for one, three, six or twelve month periods. Be sure to lodge your application at least three working days before you'd like the service to commence. Some more information:

• An application or "Australia Post Change of Address Mover's Kit" is available either online or at your local post office.
• When lodging your application in person, photo identification must be provided.
• Your application must include all variations of the names requested for mail redirect. For example, George and Jane Butler would list their actual names, as well as G. Butler, J. Butler, G & J Butler. Any mail addressed to names that are not a variation of the ones listed will not be redirected.
• If approved by you upon application, Australia Post will also provide an address update service, whereby your new address will be given out to organisations you have dealt with at your prior address. Such organisations include financial institutions and charities.
• Full payment will be required upon application.

Can I redirect mail from Australia to an overseas address?

If you're moving overseas, Australia Post can redirect your mail at an extra cost. The fee will vary depending on whether you're relocating to the Asia Pacific or 'Rest of World' zones. However, if the mail was sent by registered, express or cash on delivery methods it will not be redirected. Any item that requires customs documentation will also not be redirected.