The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is reportedly set to introduce a significant update to the way Australians apply for new passports, according to news.com.au.
Currently, while passport renewals can be completed online, getting a new passport involves either submitting an online application followed by an in-person visit to an Australia Post branch, or filling out a paper form and lodging it at the post office.
However, Australians will reportedly soon be able to complete the entire application process for a new passport online—eliminating the need to visit a post office. The department says this move will streamline the process and make it faster and more convenient for applicants.
Angela Cramp, executive director of the Licensed Post Office Group, told 2GB the digital transition had been in development for several years and is expected to roll out within the next year.
Despite the shift toward digital services, Ms Cramp acknowledged that many people still prefer the reassurance of in-person support when submitting their documents.
“For some people, applying for a passport was a very stressful experience because they were worried about having the correct documents or not getting their application approved,” she said.
“Most people do want to come and make sure that their passport is lodged at a passport at a post office, and we check all the documents for them,” she told 2GB.
Source: news.com.au
