Growth forces code shake-up

By John Van Klaveren
INTRODUCTION of new suburbs around Geelong has prompted an Australia Post review of postcodes for the region, according to the organisation.
A spokesperson said 19 suburbs previously covered under the region’s 3221 postcode would getnew postcodes from Sunday.
A 3217 postcode would cover the new suburbs of Armstrong Creek and Charlemont, the spokersperson said.
The number would also cover Freshwater Creek and Mt Duneed, which would change from 3216.
The spokesperson said other new post codes were: Bellarine 3223; Wallington 3222; Moolap 3224; Fyansford, Stonehaven and Murgheboluc 3218; Batesford, Moorabool, Lovely Banks and Anakie 3213; Staughton Vale 3340; and Separation Creek, Wye River, Kennett River, Grey River, Sugar Loaf and Wongarra 3234.
“Mail for the 3221 postcode covers almost 1500 square kilometres and is currently delivered from four mail facilities,” the spokesman said.
“Due to the size of this area and the need to cater for future growth, Australia Post is assigning additional postcodes.
“This enables us to plan for expected population growth in the area.”
The spokesperson said the changes would improve sorting efficiency to enhance accuracy and timeliness of deliveries.
A12-month transition period would include a free mail redirection for affected residents and businesses, the spokesperson said.
“This will give customers plenty of time to advise their contacts of the new postcode and will enable our business customers to use up existing stock of letterheads, labels and packaging.”
The spokeperson said the new postcode system would also help emergency services to respond to enquiries.