Newcastle and Lake Macquarie have earned a dangerous distinction, ranking among the country's most hazardous neighbourhoods for postal workers facing aggressive dogs.
A National Problem Hits Home
Startling new data from Australia Post reveals that NSW has overtaken Queensland for the most dog attacks on its staff, recording 342 incidents compared to 325. The problem is particularly acute in the Newcastle region, where posties operating from the Warabrook distribution centre suffered 29 separate dog attacks. This places Warabrook among NSW's worst locations, alongside Penrith, Villawood, and Moree.
This facility services the entire Newcastle local government area and northern suburbs of Lake Macquarie, highlighting a significant local safety crisis. Nationally, the figures are equally alarming, with 46 posties attacked every week this year—an average of nine per day.
Physical and Psychological Trauma
Russell Munro, Australia Post's General Manager of Safety, detailed the severe impacts on staff. "Our posties have sustained a range of injuries, puncture wounds, lacerations, scratches and bites," Mr Munro said. "We've had posties knocked off their vehicle, and we've had posties ending up in hospital."
He described a recent incident where a postie was attacked and knocked to the ground, sustaining serious bite wounds to her legs, arms, and chest. Beyond the physical harm, Mr Munro emphasised that many team members suffer long-term psychological effects following such traumatic events.
The timing of this safety message is crucial, with Australia Post expressing concern that the problem could worsen during the upcoming Black Friday and pre-Christmas period, the busiest time of year for delivery services.
New Deterrents and Community Action
In response to the growing threat, Australia Post has equipped its posties with citronella spray, which has proven 90% effective in deterring dog attacks during interactions. However, Mr Munro stresses that technological solutions alone aren't enough—community awareness and responsibility are essential.
"Posties need safe access to the property without being attacked, chased or harassed by your dog," he urged residents. "So please secure your dog behind a locked gate or in the backyard or a separate room when you're expecting a delivery."
With more than 1190 dog-related incidents occurring nationally in the past six months, Australia Post's campaign aims to protect its workers during their most demanding season while encouraging dog owners across Newcastle and Lake Macquarie to take simple safety precautions.
