Australia Post is the first non-British Government agency anywhere in the world to be granted the ability to accept British passport applications.

The arrangement has been widely welcomed by customers, with more than 14,000 applications received in the first three months.

Group Manager Financial Services Andrew Wiseman said, “Australia Post has extensive experience handling passport and other identity services. The British Government wanted an organisation with our level of expertise as well as the ability to provide an accessible and cost efficient service to customers.

“For the British High Commission to award Australia Post this contract shows the level of sophistication of our identity service processes.

“Australia Post has conducted Australian passport applications for twenty years and now handles 90 percent of all passport applications and performs 1.3 million Australian passport interviews annually,” said Mr. Wiseman.

With the new service, customers can now apply at 119 retail outlets across all states and territories, including metropolitan and regional areas. Previously, British passport applications were accepted in person, in Canberra or via mail.

“With over 1 million residents born in the UK, this service is relevant to many people,” said Mr. Wiseman.

To apply for a British passport, customers need to prepare all their documentation according to British High Commission requirements and book a face-to-face appointment at a participating Australia Post retail outlet. Australia Post will then conduct a passport application check before submitting to the British High Commission.

Australia Post has significantly expanded its travel-related services to now include travel insurance. Australian passport applications, passport photos and travel money are just some of the services available at post offices.