Australia Post has teamed up with the Pharmacy Guild of Australia to deliver medicines via a contactless pharmacy home delivery service.

It comes after the government announcement it would allocate $25 million to fund home medicine services in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

From Monday, pharmacies will be able to offer customers free monthly delivery of under 500 grams of medication and other essential supplies using the Australia Post Express Post network, and will be able to claim the cost through a government rebate.

Australia Post says the new delivery option is designed to support vulnerable Australians, including those isolating themselves at home, people over 70 and people with chronic health conditions.

Communications Minister Paul Fletcher said the initiative showed the important role Australia Post played in the community.

“Its extensive postal network will now support Australians to safely access their PBS medications over the coming months,” he said.

Group Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Australia Post, Christine Holgate, said the arrangement would also help pharmacies continue to trade.

“Australia Post remains open for business during this very trying time. Our Post Offices are open and our posties and drivers are still out delivering each and every day,” she said.

Deliveries can be made to the home, or to a local Post Office or 24/7 Parcel Locker for pick-up.