Communications Minister Stephen Conroy said in a statement today that for more than 200 years Australia Post has connected Australians with each other and with the rest of the world via letters.
"They (Australia Post) are now embracing the digital world, realising that 21st century technology provides them with exciting opportunities," Senator Conroy said.
"Consumers will be able to connect with banks, power and water companies, and government enterprises through the Australia Post digital mailbox.".
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Senator Conroy said the mailbox would offer "bank level" security with all communications encrypted to protect users.
"For the government, it means we can continue to put Australians at the heart of our service delivery, making it easier and more convenient for people to access the government services they need," he said.
Businesses and government agencies would have access to a secure and cost-effective digital delivery service to customers, who would have several options in paying for goods and services.
The Department of Human Services and the Australian Tax Office (ATO) announced they are taking part in a trial of the digital mailbox.
Human Services Minister Kim Carr said the digital mailbox would improve the delivery of government services.
"Over four million Centrelink, Medicare and Child Support customers use Australian government online services and Centrelink will send an estimated 28 million letters online over the next year," Senator Carr said.
Assistant Treasurer David Bradbury said more Australians were using online services in dealing with government agencies such as the ATO.
"Last year 2.6 million Australians lodged their tax returns using E-tax and this number will continue to grow," Mr Bradbury said.
