CHRISTMAS is always the hardest time of year for Australia Post - last year was its busiest ever thanks to the boom in online shopping.

As a result, staff are grateful for the modest bonus they usually receive when the government-owned business turns a profit. Last year, they got $500 after Australia Post turned a $241 million profit.

Cuts … staff will receive a $100 Post voucher. Credit:Josh Robenstone

It was, chief executive Ahmed Fahour said, ''a gesture of goodwill in recognition of employee performance''.

This year, with a thumping profit of $281 million, staff expected something similar.