I have no idea.  But I honestly think that AusPost have cut-back on staffing levels....that is the only explanation.

Recently I posted a large letter from Townsville to Brisbane ..... it took 12 days.... should have taken 3 or 4 at the most.

I just had an item delivered to me today that was posted from NSW on 9 January.  The seller was good enough to send me a replacement in the meantime.....so I have now marked this one return to sender.

I have had 3 items go missing this year posted from Townsville ..... and they have ended up in a black hole somewhere.

Very sad performance from Aus Post.