Official launch of PIO

The Postal Industry Ombudsman (PIO) was today launched in Sydney by Senator Helen Coonan, the Minister for Communications, IT and the Arts. (pictured left) POAAL was officially invited to the launch, and was represented by NSW State Chairman, John Dixon.The Ombudsman, Prof. John McMillan, and Australia Post's Managing Director, Graeme John (pictured below), spoke at the launch."The Postal Industry Ombudsman will be a recognisable, dedicated, experienced and independent entity to help maintain high standards in our postal system and ensure it meets the future needs of consumers," Senator Coonan said.Prof. McMillan commented that the number of representatives from the postal and courier industry attending the launch augurs well for the Postal Industry Ombudsman function and industry acknowledgement of the benefits of an association with the Ombudsman's office.

The PIO was established following extensive consultation, including submissions from POAAL. It was pleasing to see that many of POAAL's suggestions were incorporated into the PIO model. The PIO will start operations later in 2006.It is POAAL's hope that the PIO will lead to an even more reliable and professional postal service in Australia.For more information on the PIO, visit their website at www.pio.gov.au.