Australia Post deadlines for sending Christmas gifts announced

It's that time of year again, and Australia Post is getting a head start by sharing its Christmas cut-off deadlines.

The postal giant is encouraging Australians to send presents to their friends and loved ones early, with deadlines starting in early December.

Australia Post executive general manager Gary Starr said it was important to plan ahead.

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Australia Post said they would do their best to deliver items sent after the cut-off dates as quickly as possible.

"We understand how crucial these deadlines are for ensuring cards and gifts reach loved ones in time for Christmas, which is why we're providing this information as early as possible," Starr said.

"We've been preparing for the Christmas rush all year and are bringing on thousands of new team members across our network, plus enhancing delivery updates through the Australia Post app."

When does domestic mail need to be sent to make it for Christmas?

If you are sending mail from within Australia (except Western Australia and the Northern Territory), the last day for parcel post is December 20 and the last day for express post is December 23.

Letters and cards however will need to be sent by December 13 (interstate) and December 16 for the (same state).

Aussies sending to and from Western Australia and the Northern Territory should allow a few extra days.

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When does international mail need to be sent to make it for Christmas?

If you're sending a parcel overseas, the deadline for sending cards and gifts internationally for economy air is between November 19 and December 4.

For international standard air, the dates are November 26 to December 11. Express mail ranges from December 2-16.