I rise today to again raise the concerns of my community about the imminent closure of Shortland Post Office. Shortland Post Office has been a critical part of the social fabric of this community for decades. It's more than just a place to send letters or collect parcels; it's a lifeline, especially for older residents, people with disabilities and those who don't drive.

The message from Shortland residents is loud and clear: 'We want our post office to stay open.' Jennifer told me, 'Shortland is a great post office offering early opening times and a convenient local collection point for parcels.' Francis said, 'I have limited capacity to access postal services, so the impending closure of Shortland Post Office has significant impact on me.' Merryn stressed to me: 'This decision to close post offices is selfish and discriminatory to those in the area who are elderly, don't drive, are disadvantaged or are disabled. They provide vital services to people, such as banking, and not even has access to technologies.'

These are not isolated concerns. They reflect a pattern of disregard from Australia Post for local communities right across Newcastle and the Hunter region. We have seen the same story play out in Elermore Vale, Lambton and Glendale, where local branches have already been shut down. Each time, Australia Post ensures residents that nearby outlets will be able to cope, but the reality is very different. I want to thank the more than 2,000 residents who have signed a petition and contacted me directly, calling on Australia Post to reverse its decision to close the Shortland Post Office. For these residents the efforts to date are simply not good enough. I want to assure Shortland residents that their voice matters. I will continue to fight alongside you to keep the Shortland Post Office open and accessible for all.

I also want to acknowledge the work of the state member for Wallsend, Sonia Hornery MP, who has been standing shoulder to shoulder with me and the Shortland community in our efforts to try and get this decision reversed. This petition represents a community that is angry, frustrated and, frankly, heartbroken at the prospect of losing an essential local service. Australia Post must listen. In the words of my constituent, Sommer: 'Stop closing all the post offices. We need them.' I seek leave to table the petition.