Australian travellers could soon enjoy the convenience of applying for or renewing their passports entirely online, eliminating the need to visit a post office. This development comes as a source from Australia Post confirmed to Ben Fordham Live on 2GB that significant changes to the passport application process are on the horizon.
Currently, adults must physically visit a post office to apply for or renew their passports. However, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is actively working towards implementing a fully digital application system. Angela Cramp, an Australia Post licensee, revealed that this digital option has been in the works for some time, suggesting that had there been enough capacity, it would have been introduced sooner.
Fordham noted that a listener from Port Stephens was informed during a post office visit that a complete online application process is expected to launch within six to twelve months. Cramp commented that while renewals can be done online for many, the full application process isn’t yet accessible to those needing to apply for a new passport.
At present, most passport renewals are approved online, but Cramp pointed out the common preference among applicants to submit their documents in person at a post office, ensuring that all necessary paperwork is properly checked. DFAT reconfirmed that Australians will still have the option to apply in person at an Australia Post branch even after the online system is established.
Despite the anticipated changes, Australia Post has refrained from making any official comments regarding the imminent updates to the passport application process.