Australia Post sets deadlines for Christmas packages

Packages posted within Australia will reach their destination by Christmas if sent by parcel post by December 18 of by express post by December 21.

Post said "people sending to or from Western Australia and Northern Territory should allow a few extra days".

The cut-off date for post to or from Western Australia by parcel post is December 15 and express post is December 20.

Parcel post for the Northern Territory should be sent by December 14.

Packages to New Zealand via standard international post should be sent by December 7; to the USA by December 6 and to Canada by December 4.

Mail to the UK will reach its destination by Christmas if sent before December 5 and to other major European locations by December 1.

Christmas presents sent to China and the majority of other destinations in Asia should be posted by November 30.

IN OTHER NEWS:

"Last-minute shoppers can give themselves another week if sending via International express," Post said.

A full list of international cut-off dates is available at the Australia Post site.

Post executive general manager Gary Starr said "we know these last-sending dates are very important for customers to help ensure cards and gifts make it in time to loved ones near and far.

"Of course, if items are sent after the recommended dates, they will still be delivered as quickly as possible, but they may not arrive until after Christmas."