Leslie Massey
Australia has a rich history of postal stamps, with the first stamp bearing the name Australia featuring the iconic Kangaroo and Map design in 1913. The size of postage stamps in Australia has not been consistent throughout its history. The cost of postage for sending letters is determined by size, thickness, and weight, with larger letters being charged a round multiple of the base postage rate. The basic postage rate for a small letter has increased over the years due to inflation and other factors, such as the decline in mail usage due to competition from email. As of 2024, a large letter, including packaging, cannot be more than 20mm thick or larger than 260x360mm; otherwise, it is considered a parcel. Australia Post also offers postage-paid stamps, which are available in traditional hand-stamp or self-inking formats, with measurements of 26mm x 18mm and 26mm x 24mm, respectively.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 260mm x 360mm |
| Thickness | 20mm |
| Weight | N/A |
| Price | 70 cents (2013), $1 (2016) |
| Price increase reasons | Decline in mail usage due to competition from email |
| Postage paid stamps | Traditional Hand Stamp, Self Inking |
| Traditional Hand Stamp measurements | 26mm x 18mm, 26mm x 24mm |
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What You'll Learn
Stamp prices
The price of postage stamps in Australia depends on a variety of factors, including the size, thickness, weight, and destination of the letter. For example, a postcard sent to New Zealand will be charged at a different rate than a large letter sent within Australia.
Within Australia, the Regular letter service offers delivery within 3-7 business days. Postage costs for letters sent within the country can be determined using the online calculator, which requires the 'from and to' postcodes to be entered.
For those with a concession card, reduced rates on stamps for sending letters within Australia may be available.
For international postage, there are different rates for sending postcards and greeting cards to Zone 1 (New Zealand) and Zone 2 (Asia Pacific). These rates are based on the Economy Air small letters postage rate. If you are using a postage meter for international mail, you must apply postage at 10% above the published rate to offset input credits. Similarly, if you are using domestic stamps for international mail, you must also apply postage at 10% above the published rate, due to GST.
International Courier and International Express services are also available for sending letters overseas, with specific postage costs depending on the country.
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Stamp size requirements
The postage costs for letters in Australia are determined by size, thickness, and weight. The size requirements for sending letters within Australia are as follows:
- Small letters/postcards: There is no specified size requirement for small letters or postcards. However, the postage cost is determined by size, thickness, and weight.
- Large letters: A large letter, including packaging, must not exceed dimensions of 260mm x 360mm and a thickness of 20mm. If the letter exceeds these dimensions, it will be considered a parcel.
- Seasonal greeting cards: Seasonal greeting cards, such as Christmas cards, should be endorsed with "Card Only" and sealed inside an envelope. There is no specified size requirement, but they are subject to the same size, thickness, and weight considerations as small letters.
It is important to note that the size requirements for postage stamps in Australia may vary depending on the specific postal service provider and the type of mail being sent. It is always recommended to check with the postal service provider for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding stamp size requirements.
Additionally, the basic postage rate for a small letter has increased over the years due to inflation and other market factors. Thus, it is advisable to refer to the latest pricing information provided by the postal service provider when sending mail within Australia.
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Stamp design history
The design of Australian postage stamps has evolved in response to historical, political, and social changes in the country. The six self-governing Australian colonies that formed the Commonwealth of Australia in 1901 each had their own postal service and issued their own stamps.
In 1911, a stamp design competition was held for a uniform series of Commonwealth postage stamps, attracting over a thousand entries. The first definitive stamp, inscribed "Australia", was a red 1d "Kangaroo and Map" stamp, issued on 2 January 1913. This design was ordered by the Fisher Labor Government, which included republicans who opposed the inclusion of British royal symbols.
The first Australian stamp to commemorate an event was issued on 9 May 1927, marking the opening of the first Parliament House in Canberra. Commemorative stamps have since been issued regularly to mark Australian achievements and milestones. The first Australian multicoloured stamps were part of the Melbourne Olympic Games commemorative issue in 1956.
The 1970s saw a change of policy, phasing out the Queen's Head stamps in favour of definitive stamps featuring other subjects. In 1978, a third category of stamps, special stamp issues, was introduced, featuring a diverse range of subjects.
Since the 1990s, stamp designs have become more commercially focused, catering to the demands of the market. Self-adhesive stamps, introduced in this period, gained popularity due to their convenience and ease of use. Despite the shift towards commercial appeal, stamps continue to reflect contemporary political milestones, such as the 2019 stamp commemorating the legalisation of same-sex marriage.
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$17.99 $19.95
Olympic gold medallist stamps
Australian postage stamps come in various sizes, depending on the purpose and design. However, the standard size of a postage stamp in Australia is typically rectangular, measuring 35 mm in height and 26 mm in width.
Now, let's focus on the topic of Olympic gold medallist stamps. Australia has a rich history of honouring its Olympic gold medallists through commemorative postage stamps, celebrating their achievements and national pride. The following paragraphs will explore this theme in more detail.
Australia's postal service, Australia Post, has a long tradition of commemorating the nation's Olympic gold medallists with special-edition stamps. These stamps are typically released shortly after the conclusion of each Olympic Games, featuring the victorious athletes who have achieved gold medal success. The stamps serve as a lasting memento of their remarkable accomplishments, providing a unique way to honour Australia's Olympic heroes. The stamps often showcase dynamic images of the athletes in action during their respective events, capturing the intensity and triumph of their performances.
Each stamp generally focuses on an individual medallist or a team event, with their names and event details proudly displayed. The background designs often incorporate the Australian Olympic colours of green and gold, along with iconic symbols associated with the specific Olympic Games host city. These stamps have become highly sought-after collectibles, not just for philatelists but also for sports enthusiasts and those wanting a piece of Olympic memorabilia.
The production process of these stamps involves careful planning and collaboration. Australia Post works closely with the Australian Olympic Committee and the athletes themselves to ensure accurate and respectful representations. The process includes obtaining high-quality images, designing the layout, and often including special features such as foil detailing or embossing to accentuate the celebratory nature of the stamps.
Over the years, numerous Australian Olympic gold medallists have been featured on stamps, spanning various Olympic Games and sports disciplines. These stamps serve as a permanent reminder of their historic achievements, inspiring current and future generations of athletes and sports fans alike. The honour of having an Olympic gold medallist stamp is a testament to the cultural significance of the Olympics in Australia and the nation's pride in its athletes' success on the world stage.
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Concession rates
Concession cardholders may be eligible for reduced rates on stamps for sending letters within Australia. The postage costs for letters are determined by size, thickness, and weight. To confirm if your item can be sent as a small letter/postcard, large letter, or seasonal greeting card, you can check the letter size and weight guide.
The current base rate for domestic letters is $1.50 (since 3 April 2024). If you need assistance to weigh your letter, you can visit your local post office.
You can also use the online calculator to estimate the postage price and delivery time for sending letters within Australia. Select 'Australia' and enter the 'from and to' postcode, then choose 'Letters'.
For sending letters overseas, there are specially designed GST-free stamps available for international mail. If you use a postage meter to apply postage to international mail, you must apply postage at 10% above the published rate to offset input credits you may claim. Similarly, if you wish to use domestic stamps on international mail, you must affix postage at 10% above the published rate for GST purposes.
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Frequently asked questions
A small letter, including packaging, cannot be more than 20mm thick or larger than 260x360mm.
If your letter is larger than the maximum size and weight, it will be considered a parcel.
If you need assistance to weigh your letter, please visit your local Post Office.
The basic postage rate for a small letter has increased over the years due to inflation. As of 2024, a large letter (up to 500 grams) costs a minimum of $10.60.
