Posties told to drive their electric bikes to work

POSTIES are having to transport their new electric-assisted bicycles in their own cars to get from the postal distribution centre to their round.

POSTIES are having to transport their new electric-assisted bicycles in their own cars to get from the postal distribution centre to their round.

The phasing out of motorcycles has meant delivery staff have long distances to pedal to start their round, especially to some of Melbourne’s far-flung housing estates.

Australia Post bosses have told posties to use their own vehicles to transport their bikes and have offered to pay for bike racks.

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Posties are also being encouraged to store the bikes at home if it’s more convenient.

Postie Brendan Peel delivers mail with the new electric-assisted tricycle.

The traditional postie bike, a Honda CT110, will be replaced by electric-assisted bicycles and tricycles.

Staff will be reimbursed for any costs but one postie told the Herald Sun it was all about cutting costs and feared he and his colleagues would be out of pocket while they claimed for expenses.

An Australia Post spokeswoman said the move was part of a $30 million commitment to safety in the workplace.

“Australia Post is phasing in electric-assisted mail bicycles and tricycles on routes wherever it is practical. These vehicles have lower on-road speeds and reduce exposure to incidents and serious accidents.”

The traditional postie bike, a Honda CT110, will be replaced by electric-assisted bicycles and tricycles, depending on need and location.

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