Southern Moreton Bay Islands residents are pushing back against new Woolworths delivery charges, with a Redland City councillor labelling the increase unfair and calling for intervention from both the retailer and the Federal Government.
The controversy follows Woolworths’ decision to introduce an additional $20 service fee, plus a $2 weekend surcharge, on top of existing delivery or membership costs for island customers.
The changes are due to take effect from 3 February 2026 and apply to Karragarra, Macleay, Lamb and Russell islands.
Coochiemudlo Island and North Stradbroke Island are also in the firing line.
Redland City Councillor for Division 5 Shane Rendalls said the fee hike would disproportionately affect vulnerable residents and deepen existing inequities faced by island communities.
“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,” Cr Rendalls said.
He said attempts to raise the issue directly with Woolworths had been frustrating.
“I have called Woolworths, but their complaint system is geared around price matching, delivery delays, wrong deliveries etc,” he said.
“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.”
Cr Rendalls has lodged a complaint with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission and copied it to Member for Bowman Henry Pike MP.
“I have also submitted a complaint to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, with a copy to Henry Pike MP,” he said.
“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.”
In a formal letter to Woolworths Customer Service, Cr Rendalls outlined the impact the new fees would have on island residents.
“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,” he wrote.
“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.”
He said access to mainland supermarkets was already difficult for islanders, who rely on ferries and limited public transport.
“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,” he wrote.
According to Cr Rendalls, community opposition has been swift and widespread.
“Community members have raised their concerns widely on local social media and have contacted local representatives, including myself,” he wrote.
“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.”
He has called on Woolworths to reverse the decision and consider longer-term solutions.
“Our immediate request is that Woolworths reconsider and withdraw the proposed additional service fees for island deliveries,” he said.
“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.”
Cr Rendalls said he was seeking an urgent response from the company and hoped a resolution could be reached that ensured fair access to essential groceries for island residents.
Woolworths has been approached for comment.
