Australia Post has announced a major investment in parcel handling centres across NSW, including Ballina, in response to growing demand driven by online shopping.

In Ballina, Australia Post is currently negotiating a lease for a new, larger parcel facility that will replace the existing site in the Airport Industrial Estate on Boeing Avenue.

In the Byron Shire, a new parcel handling centre will be constructed on Melaleuca Drive. This facility will centralise operations for both Byron Bay and Mullumbimby, and is expected to open in 2027.

A major new complex is also planned for Casino, with construction scheduled to begin next year at the corner of Liberty and Victory Camp Roads. It will replace the aging Johnston Street site.

“These purpose-built facilities will significantly boost parcel processing capacity—handling between 900 and 2,200 parcels per day—and are designed to improve delivery services across regional and rural communities. They will also enhance operational safety and efficiency for postal workers,” the company said.

“Sustainability is a key part of the upgrade. All sites will feature 50kW rooftop solar systems, and several will include rainwater harvesting and EV charging infrastructure.”

Australia Post delivered almost 104 million parcels nationwide last year, generating more than $3.5 billion in revenue.

General Manager of Network Development & Support Services, Shane Plant, said many existing facilities in NSW are outdated and struggling to keep up with rising parcel volumes.

“Regional areas are increasingly reliant on eCommerce due to limited local retail options,” he said. 

“These new, purpose-built sites will help us meet demand, with data showing that 82 percent of NSW households now shop online,” Mr Plant said.