In a year that has impacted Australians in more ways than one, Australia Post has a special message for its 2022 festive stamps, to help spread some cheer – a tradition that started in 1957.

‘Peace’ and ‘Joy’ lead a newly launched Christmas stamp issue, with two stamps prominently displaying these words and a third featuring ‘Noel’, the French word for Christmas.

A further two stamps honour the traditional use of stained-glass art in Christian churches, with religious representations of the Archangel Gabriel, Mary and Jesus Christ.

In addition, a series of Christmas Island stamps feature Santa landing on the island by plane, captained by his trusty reindeer, as the local fauna, including the famous red crab, gathers around expectantly.

Australia Post Group Manager Philatelic, Michael Zsolt, said December was the season to share joy with loved ones near and far, to send Christmas cards or post a thoughtful gift that can make someone’s day. 

“It’s a time of sharing with others, the giving of gifts and a chance to reflect on events of 2022 as the year draws to a close,” Mr Zsolt said.

“There’s something truly special about sending and receiving Christmas cards, and despite the rise of digital communications, we still see plenty of Australians honouring this long-held tradition.

“The Christmas season is one of the busiest of the year – not just for sending presents – but for touching base and sharing news and goodwill after a long year. To honour this and all the mail sent out at Christmas time, we take great care in creating relevant stamp designs that appeal to everyone.

“Our Christmas stamps are always popular, and we love seeing them out and about, spreading cheer throughout Australia.”

The range of Christmas stamps are on sale now at participating Post Offices, via mail order on 1800 331 794, and online while stocks last. For more information visit auspost.com.au/shop/christmas/stamps or australiapostcollectables.com.au

Any customers wanting to send cards and gifts for Christmas are encouraged to check auspost.com.au/Christmas for the domestic and international last sending dates, which vary depending on the destination.