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Marking a monumental shift in Australia’s bustling $69B travel sector, the industry witnessed the birth of the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA). This ground-breaking development follows two rigorous years of introspection and member consultations, propelling Australia into a transformative phase of its travel saga.

Replacing its predecessor, the Australian Federation of Travel Agents (AFTA), ATIA emerges as a fresh entity and a robust, all-encompassing body. Pioneered by the industry’s passionate leaders, this association echoes the collective voice of travel agents, tour operators, and key stakeholders, emphasizing a united vision – “One voice, one future.”

ATIA embodies modernity and inclusivity by drawing insights from a comprehensive review of AFTA members and significant public deliberation. The revised, democratically aligned voting infrastructure and a refreshed set of objectives underpinning the revered Australian Travel Accreditation Scheme (ATAS) are Testament to this.

The essence of ATIA is its members. Capturing the pulse of its core, ATIA is laying the foundations for three pivotal caucuses:

Independent Travel Agents
Home-based Independent Contractors
Tour Operators and Wholesalers

Without a rigid hierarchical construct, these caucuses will bolster collaboration, foster networking, and sharpen advocacy agendas tailored to their niche.

Evolving with the digital age, ATIA introduces a tantalizing ‘Independent Membership’ at an affordable $10 per month. This offers a passport to “Travel Exchange”, a rich digital reservoir of industry resources. Full details of the myriad benefits are anticipated in the coming days.

Tom Manwaring, the visionary Chair of ATIA, reflects on this journey, “The world of Travel has evolved since AFTA’s inception in 1957. The introduction of ATIA symbolizes our commitment to embodying the dynamic essence of Australia’s vibrant Travel eco-system.” Dean Long, the dynamic CEO of ATIA, reiterates, “ATIA stands as a testament to our dedication to our members, ensuring a unified voice that truly represents the heart and soul of Australian travel.”