IN THE NEWS THIS WEEK: Australia Post CEO steps down with some encouragement from Scott Morrison

Australia Post, one of the country’s most well-known national institutions, has faced some controversy over the past few weeks – and this week it all came to a head.

After it was reported four top executives within the company were rewarded with a Cartier watch totalling $12,000, Australia Post CEO Christine Holgate has finally resigned with some “encouragement” from Scott Morrison.

When questioned on the matter, the Australian Prime Minister expressed his outrage stating “We are the shareholders of Australia Post on behalf of the Australian people” and insisted an independent investigation be conducted immediately. Claiming Australia Post was a government organisation, Holgate was reminded that it was the taxpayer’s money she was handling. On Monday, Holgate stood down opting not to claim a pay-out of $700,000.

As a leading government body, every move made is being watched around the clock. For AusPost there is a reputation to uphold and the interests of all Australian citizens must be put first. 2020 has been a difficult year for many people financially and the decision for a government institution to reward staff with a flashy gift that comes with a hefty price tag may be deemed to ignore the hardships citizens have faced.

For Holgate, opting not to seek a pay-out which she was entitled to, may work in her favour in preserving her public image. It’s a good reminder for businesses to put on their public relations hat and consider all stakeholders potentially evaluating its actions.

By Sarah Meenan – PR and Influencer Executive at InsideOut PR and #AsSeenON