Australia Post releases Christmas stamps

With less than two months left until Christmas, Australia Post has released its Christmas stamps ahead of its busiest time of the year.

“Australia Post’s Christmas stamps are extremely popular, with Australians purchasing approximately 70 million of them every year,” said Australia Post media manager Alex Twomey.

“The next two months will be incredibly hectic as people of all ages send not only cards but presents through the mail.

“In December an extra 70,000 parcels go through the mail each day and with online shopping becoming increasingly popular, more and more gifts are now being delivered by Australia Post.”

This year’s stamps capture the spirit of Christmas through the devotional figures of the Madonna and Child, an Angel and a Wise man set against a colourful, decorative backdrop.

Rounding out the series is a baubles stamp which recognises the centuries old ritual of decorating the home for Christmas.

“Australia Post has issued Christmas stamps every year since 1957 and Christmas cards are still the preferred way people of all ages like to receive their Christmas greetings. Sending a card has a personal touch other forms of communication lack,” Mr Twomey said.

The Christmas stamp release includes two 50 cent stamps, the discount rate for Christmas cards, one 55 cent stamp for general use and one $1.20 stamp for international postage.

“This year we have card packs available from PostShops which include stamps, envelopes and cards to make it even easier to stay in touch with friends and family this Christmas,” Mr Twomey said.

Australia Post is also releasing Christmas Island stamps featuring humorous depictions of the different creatures synonymous with Christmas Island such as robber crabs and will carry the special discount card rate of 50c as well as a $1.20 stamp for international postage.

“Australia Post regularly commemorates the day for which Christmas Island was named, they are a fun, light hearted Christmas stamp which complements our traditional stamps,” Mr Twomey said.

When choosing Christmas cards, senders should remember to select standard card sizes (no larger than 130mm x240mm) to qualify for the discounted 50c stamp rate for Australia and $1.20 stamp rate for overseas.

The 50 cent Christmas stamps will be available from participating PostShops from 31 October 2008 and can be used throughout November and January.

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