A Sydney-based Australia Post employee was sentenced to prison after admitting to stealing dozens of bank cards from secure mail to fund a severe gambling addiction. Mauro Paul Coluzzi, 57, was jailed until December 2027 for orchestrating two criminal fraud syndicates that defrauded customers and banks of more than $100,000 over a 15-month period.

Coluzzi, who had an unblemished record with Australia Post since 2007, used his position on a postal route in Sydney’s eastern suburbs to pilfer the cards. He and two co-conspirators then exploited the stolen card details to make purchases, including gold jewellery, electronic devices, and online gaming gift cards. Among the items Coluzzi personally acquired were two 24-carat gold bracelets bought just 12 hours before his arrest.

During sentencing at Sutherland local court, Judge Jillian Kiely highlighted the breach of trust involved in stealing from the postal service, emphasizing its impact on community confidence. “Cards were stolen from the post, which was a significant breach of trust ... to safely deliver these items to customers,” she said.

The court heard that Coluzzi’s gambling addiction had escalated since early 2024, driving him to look for illicit ways to secure funding. In recorded remarks, he expressed desperation over credit card debt and concern about upcoming changes to Australia Post procedures that would limit access to mail items.

Coluzzi’s defence counsel, Troy Edwards SC, urged the court to consider a community-based penalty due to the defendant’s personal circumstances. However, Judge Kiely determined the severity of the offences warranted imprisonment. Following the sentencing, a family member of Coluzzi collapsed in court and required assistance.

Australia Post stated it maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards illegal activity within its workforce and confirmed ongoing cooperation with NSW Police during the investigation. The organisation also indicated continual reviews are conducted to enhance operational security.

The case underscores the wide-reaching effects of problem gambling, with Judge Kiely noting Coluzzi’s lifelong gambling losses strained his marriage and contributed to his criminal behaviour. Those affected by gambling issues are encouraged to seek support from services such as Gambling Help Online and the National Debt Helpline.