Evidence of alleged anti-competitive practices by Australia Post is being sought by Printing Industries.

This follows industry complaints to the Association about the operations of Australia Post.

Printing Industries National Director, Philip Andersen, said members were concerned that Australia Post may be using cross subsidisation from the reserved services it provides to support low price quotes for its mail house activities in competition with private sector firms.

"There is also a concern that Australia Post may be offering general printing services that may not fully reflect costs or even that offering such services may be outside their Charter," he said.

"It has also been suggested that Australia Post, because of its monopoly position, is using privileged information to call on clients who lodge large volumes of mail and offer printing services in addition to advice on mailing."

Printing Industries has already taken these issues to the Australian Competitions and Consumer Commission (ACCC). The ACCC declined to act because of a lack of industry evidence.

The Association has now taken the issue to the Australian Government Competitive Neutrality Complaints Office which may be able to include it with its major mail users inquiry currently underway.

There is still a need for evidence but the AGCNCO is willing to accept evidenceconfidentially via Printing Industries. Companies are asked to contact Philip Andersen by e-mail: philip@printnet.com.au or by calling (02) 8789 7300.