Australia Post admits nearly $7k worth of gifts given by previous boss

In an answered question on notice to Senator Bridget McKenzie, the postal service said it had undertaken a review of credit card transactions authorised by former chief executive Ahmed Fahour, who stood down in 2017 after nearly eight years in the role.

It had identified three purchases made during the time period, totalling nearly $7000.

Among them was six $579 smartwatches, purchased in mid-2015, which the review said may have been gifted to senior officials.

Two pens, one costing $2400 while another was valued at $1108, were also given during as gifts to senior staff.

The questions arose following allegations made by Ms Holgate that Mr Fahour had often given luxurious gifts as thanks for the work done by employees.

She alleged Mr Fahour had also gifted cars during his time in the role.

READ MORE:

Australia Post said the review had not been exhaustive but said the findings showed the gifting of expensive items to senior staff was not "business as usual".

"Other than as identified above, the review has not identified the provision of significant ... non-financial incentives given by or to Mr Fahour, or senior executives employed during his tenure, and on this basis has not indicated the provision of significant non-financial incentives being a business as usual practice," the answer read.

"On the comments made by Ms Holgate that Mr Fahour apparently gifted cars during his tenure - while novated lease arrangements from time to time formed part of remuneration packages, no evidence has been identified by the review that would indicate that a car, or any other vehicle or similarly valued item, has been provided to Australia Post personnel or to any third party."

A follow-up hearing on Tuesday will be attended by executive staff at Australia Post as well as director, Tony Nutt, who Ms Holgate alleged was given a request by the Prime Minister to step her aside.

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content: