Australia Post accelerates shift to electric trucks and vans

Australian Minister for Communications Anika Wells and Australia Post Executive General Manager, Network Operations Shane Plant pose for photo in front of bright red electric truck
Australian Minister for Communications Anika Wells and Australia Post Executive General Manager, Network Operations Shane Plant (Image: Australia Post)

Australia Post will expand the country’s largest electric delivery fleet, adding electric trucks and vans to its network and reducing future reliance on diesel fuel.

Supported by a one-off $40.5 million investment from the Australian Government, the rollout will include a broad range of vehicles, from vans to light and heavy rigid trucks, as well as prime movers.

Related article: Zenobē and Woolworths drive largest electric truck rollout

It also includes depot charging infrastructure and upgrades to existing facilities, including switchboard enhancements, new distribution boards and load management controls, representing a significant step in the electrification of Australia Post’s heavier vehicle fleet beyond last-mile delivery.

Funding will be delivered in the 2026–27 financial year, with work now underway to bring the additional electric vehicles into operation as quickly as possible.

Australia Post Group CEO and managing director Paul Graham said the investment builds on years of work to lead fleet electrification in Australia.

“Australia Post has been at the forefront of electric vehicle adoption for over a decade, and this investment allows us to go further faster. We’ve seen promising results from our early electric truck trials and existing electric van fleet, and this next phase allows us to scale that across heavier vehicle types,” he said.

“It means less reliance on diesel, lower exposure to fuel supply disruptions, and a stronger, more sustainable delivery network for Australian businesses and communities.”

Minister for Communications the Hon Anika Wells MP said, “Australia Post is a vital national service that keeps our economy moving.
“The Albanese Government’s $40.5 million investment to accelerate Australia Post’s rollout of EVs will support the future of the national delivery network, reducing reliance on diesel and increasing resilience in the event of external shocks.

“With Australians ordering more online than ever before, this investment means Australia Post can keep pace with growing demand while working towards a lower-emissions future.”

Related article: Australia Post inks electric truck and renewable diesel deal

Work will now begin to source additional electric vehicles available for the Australian market, alongside electrification upgrades at relevant sites ahead of the expanded fleet entering service.

Electrification of its fleet is a core part of Australia Post’s sustainability strategy, with the organisation targeting net zero emissions by 2050.

Stay on top of the latest energy news and insights by subscribing to our free weekly e-newsletter and digital magazine.

Previous articleARENA backs HAMR Energy forestry-to-fuels projects
Next articleWork begins on two new transmission lines in WA