Telstra announces price hike on paper statements after Australia Post changes
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Navigating the ever-changing landscape of bills and expenses can be a challenge, and for those of us who prefer the tangibility of paper statements, it's about to become a little more costly.
Telstra, one of Australia's leading telecommunications companies, has announced a price hike for its paper billing service, which is set to affect many customers across the nation.
Starting 17 June, the cost of receiving a paper bill from Telstra will increase to $2.50. This follows Telstra increasing the cost of issuance of paper bills last year by $2.20.
This change is a direct result of Australia Post raising its fees for over-the-counter bill payments—a cost that Telstra is now passing on to its customers.
Telstra has stated, 'We provide a range of options for customers when paying their bills so they can choose what is right for them. Like a lot of utilities, one option is over the counter at Australia Post.’.
‘When this occurs, Australia Post charges the utility for processing the payment, and it is common for companies to pass this onto the customer—Telstra is not alone in doing this, and the charge has been in place for many years.’
‘The rate we charge our customers is still lower than what we get charged to accept these payments.’
It's important to note that not all customers will be affected by this price increase. According to Telstra, approximately 68 per cent of customers who currently receive paper bills will not face the new charge.
This includes individuals with a valid Health Care Card, Pension Concession Card, or Department of Veteran’s Affairs Card.
Additionally, those without an email address or internet access, residents of remote communities, and people who require special bill formats, such as braille or large print due to vision impairment, are also exempt.
If you believe you might be eligible for an exemption or need assistance transitioning to electronic billing, Telstra urges you to contact them.
They have customer service representatives who can guide you through the process and help determine if you qualify for an exemption.
Are you still holding onto paper bills? Could you make the switch to digital and save yourself the additional cost? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
Telstra, one of Australia's leading telecommunications companies, has announced a price hike for its paper billing service, which is set to affect many customers across the nation.
Starting 17 June, the cost of receiving a paper bill from Telstra will increase to $2.50. This follows Telstra increasing the cost of issuance of paper bills last year by $2.20.
This change is a direct result of Australia Post raising its fees for over-the-counter bill payments—a cost that Telstra is now passing on to its customers.
Telstra will increase its paper bills from $2.20 to $2.50. Credit: Shutterstock
Telstra has stated, 'We provide a range of options for customers when paying their bills so they can choose what is right for them. Like a lot of utilities, one option is over the counter at Australia Post.’.
‘When this occurs, Australia Post charges the utility for processing the payment, and it is common for companies to pass this onto the customer—Telstra is not alone in doing this, and the charge has been in place for many years.’
‘The rate we charge our customers is still lower than what we get charged to accept these payments.’
It's important to note that not all customers will be affected by this price increase. According to Telstra, approximately 68 per cent of customers who currently receive paper bills will not face the new charge.
This includes individuals with a valid Health Care Card, Pension Concession Card, or Department of Veteran’s Affairs Card.
Additionally, those without an email address or internet access, residents of remote communities, and people who require special bill formats, such as braille or large print due to vision impairment, are also exempt.
If you believe you might be eligible for an exemption or need assistance transitioning to electronic billing, Telstra urges you to contact them.
They have customer service representatives who can guide you through the process and help determine if you qualify for an exemption.
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