The increased delivery fee is unfair to residents and is particularly galling given the consistent refusal of the Federal government to restore the regional status of the islands.
I have called Woolworths, but their complaint system is geared around price matching, delivery delays, wrong deliveries etc. There is no mechanism for raising broader systemic issues and they will not even provide an email address for contact. Probably, just don’t want to receive feedback.! I have also submitted a complaint to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, with a copy to Henry Pike MP. I will be following up with Henry about what the ACCC may be able to do and also to continue our push for regional status and eligibility for Federal Low -Cost Essential subsidies scheme.
Dear Sir/Ms
Re Woolworths Customer Service,
I am writing as the Redland City Councillor for the Southern Moreton Bay Islands, on behalf of all residential islands in Redlands, regarding the recently announced changes to your delivery service fees for island residents. This includes Karragarra Island, Macleay Island, Lamb Island, and Russell Island.
This week, existing customers were notified by email of a proposed additional $20 service fee, plus a $2 weekend surcharge, to be applied on top of the current delivery or membership fees. These changes are scheduled to take effect from 3 February 2026.
I must express the deep concern and disappointment of our island communities regarding these proposed fees. The new charges will disproportionately impact some of our most vulnerable residents, including older people, people living with disabilities, those with chronic illness, families with young children, and low-income individuals and families. Access to mainland supermarkets is already a significant challenge for island residents, who must rely on ferries and limited bus services that are not designed for transporting large amounts of groceries, prams, wheelchairs, or shopping trolleys.
Community members have raised their concerns widely on local social media and have contacted local representatives, including myself. The consensus is clear: these additional fees will create further hardship and social isolation for many residents who already face barriers to accessing essential goods and services.
Our immediate request is that Woolworths reconsider and withdraw the proposed additional service fees for island deliveries. In the longer term, we urge Woolworths to explore the feasibility of establishing a smaller supermarket on Macleay Island, especially given that the full-line supermarket at Weinam Creek is no longer proceeding. Such an initiative would not only support the wellbeing of island residents but also strengthen Woolworths’ relationship with our community.
I look forward to your urgent response and to working together to find a solution that ensures fair and equitable access to groceries for all Redlands island residents.
Kind regards,
Shane Rendalls
Councillor for Division 5 – Redland Bay | Southern Moreton Bay Islands
Councillor Portfolio – Transport and Marine Infrastructure
[email protected]
P +617 3829 8604
M +61 403 689 717