Australia Post extends Microsoft partnership for further three years

Australia Post has announced that it has renewed its partnership with Microsoft for a further three years.

Microsoft said the renewed agreement will focus on introducing new cloud capabilities to Australia Post using Microsoft Azure and improving its data security and privacy capabilities.

The renewal comes after Australia Post consolidated several software platforms into one under the Microsoft umbrella last year, which is "minimising security risk by containing data within a single technology ecosystem," the organisation said.

“Australia Post is serious about making our services secure, and – in this age of AI  strengthening our entire technology ecosystem from emails right through to careful management of customer data," said Michael McNamara, executive GM of enterprise services at Australia Post.

“We are an essential service with thousands of Posties delivering across the country, Australia’s largest retail network with more Post Offices nationally than the major supermarkets combined, and a growing network of parcel facilities powering eCommerce. The need for them to be connected – and for secure information flow – is absolutely a priority."

“We are focused on partnering with leading technology companies worldwide that can bring the best engineering capability and talent, and this renewal underscores our commitment to innovation and security.”

McNamara added that Australia Post was exploring the safe and secure use of AI to boost efficiency for business tasks through participation in the Early Access program for Copilot for Microsoft 365.

“Microsoft is proud to continue our partnership with Australia Post, an institution at the heart of Australian community life," said Jo Dooley, GM of enterprise commercial at Microsoft Australia and New Zealand.

"Together, we're not only bolstering defences against the latest security threats, but also empowering Australia Post to fulfill its mission of connecting people across Australia more securely and efficiently."

"This collaboration is pivotal in transforming how it manages and protects customer data in the age of AI, ensuring every interaction is safe and trusted.”