Millions of Aussies to be hit by passport change and not everyone's happy about it - here's what you need to know
New passports will eventually be fully processed online, without the need to lodge the application in person at Australia Post.
Licensed Post Office Group executive director Angela Cramp confirmed the change to 2GB broadcaster Ben Fordham on Tuesday after listeners expressed concerns.
A woman contacted Fordham after staff at her local Australia Post branch at Port Stephens in the NSW Hunter region informed her of the change.
It has sparked speculation about the effect on staffing and viability of post office branches.
Security concerns about online applications have also been raised, along with what it will mean for those less tech-savvy who need to apply for a passport.
The change to the passport process could be implemented in the next 6-12 months.
'It's been coming for a while,' Ms Cramp told Fordham.
'I think if they had any capacity, it would have already been here two years ago.
'They've been 6-12 months away for the last five years and eventually, it will happen.'
Ms Cramp acknowledged the concerns Aussies have about the passport change and noted that many still prefer to lodge their applications in person.
That includes passport renewals, which can already be processed online.
'It's a very stressful process for people as it is,' Ms Cramp said.
'Most people that come to the counter are jittery because they're worried about whether they've got the wrong documents or if they're not going to get their passports.
'You do need someone to work through it with you.
'Most people do want to come and make sure their passport is lodged at a post office and we check all the documents for them.
'The new process will be that you sit at a computer and do the whole thing and take your photo, everything is online with your phone and then you press a button.'
The standard 10-year Australian passport is the most expensive in the world at $412 following the most recent price hike on January 1.
Passport fees have risen by a cumulative $104 since the Albanese government was elected in May 2022.
More than 15million Australians - or more than 55 per cent of the population, have a current passport.
'I'm not sure why these public servants who have been doing this data input for years are then going to do, because DFAT is just pushing the data entry down to the applicant,' Ms Cramp added.
'We are already paying a huge amount of money for these documents. Is that going to reduce?'
Australia Post directed Daily Mail's query about the upcoming change to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, which was also contacted for comment.
'We are working on a new digital option to make it easier and faster for people who want to apply for a passport digitally, a department spokeswoman said.
'If you still want to apply for a passport in person, you will still be able to do so at Australia Post if that's what you prefer or need.'
The change has sparked a divided response online.
'Another way to bring in a digital ID. Don't fall for it,' one commented.
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