Australia Post Australia Post is looking to hire 3,500 people in the coming weeks to ensure the busy sales period in October, November and December is covered. (Source: Supplied)

Thousands of Australians looking to pick up a job or even a side gig for some extra cash could soon be working at Australia Post. The government-owned corporation is already gearing up for the Christmas rush and is hiring 3,500 people to ensure packages get to where they need to be.

Applications opened on Monday, and AusPost said New South Wales, Queensland, and Victoria will have the highest demand. Executive general manager of people and culture, Sue Davies, said these seasonal jobs are an essential part of their year.

“Last year, we delivered almost 103 million parcels in the lead up to Christmas, thanks to the help of our seasonal team members,” she said.

“That’s why we’re looking for enthusiastic team members to ensure we can meet the surge in demand and continue providing the trusted service Australians expect from Australia Post.”

Australia Post said forklift operators, van and truck drivers, and parcel sorters are the areas that need to be filled the most.

Those first two roles can require applicants to have a special type of licence to ensure they’re competent in operating those vehicles.

However, some of the parcel processing and delivery jobs “require no previous experience”.

AusPost said these roles can be a great opportunity to earn money during the holiday period.

The jobs will typically be needed to start across October and November, due to busy sales periods, with some roles needed until around Christmas.

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Australia Post outlined how many jobs are based in each state and territory where people are needed:

New South Wales: More than 900 roles

Victoria: More than 1,000 roles

Queensland: Close to 900 roles

South Australia: More than 300 roles

Western Australia: More than 300 roles

Tasmania: More than 30 roles

ACT: More than 20 roles

Northern Territory: More than 20 seasonal roles

You can apply for more than one role if you feel like your skills or experience apply across a range of opportunities.

Once you submit your application, you should keep an eye out for a text message or email informing you of whether you’ve been successful.

Seasonal van drivers, forklift operators, and mail and parcel sorters 21 years or older will be paid a base rate of $34.45 per hour, plus 12 per cent superannuation.

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Truck drivers will be paid up to $38.58 per hour.

Those under 21 will be paid junior rates, which differ depending on your age.

Some workers can be paid penalty rates for overtime, evening and weekend work.

You can check out the jobs available here.

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