Newly elected Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) Committee Chair Sean Martin has been appointed to the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) Board, further strengthening the Board’s expertise in Australia’s tour operator and wholesaler sector.
Sean’s appointment follows his election as Chair at the inaugural meeting of the new CATO Committee and sees him join the ATIA Board as the Committee’s representative, in line with the governance framework established through CATO’s integration into ATIA on 1 July 2026.
His appointment adds further depth of tour operator and wholesaler expertise to the ATIA Board, joining Vice Chair Toni Ambler and Director Brett Mitchell in bringing extensive experience from the touring sector.
The appointment reflects ATIA’s commitment to ensuring every part of Australia’s travel industry is supported by dedicated leadership and specialist expertise. Alongside the CATO Committee, the Association of Travel Management Companies (ATMC) and the Independent Travel Advisors Association (ITAA) continue to provide focused leadership and strategic input for their respective sectors, ensuring ATIA’s diverse membership remains well represented while contributing to the broader direction of the association.
As CATO Committee Chair, Sean will provide an important connection between the Committee and the ATIA Board, helping ensure the priorities of Australia’s tour operators and wholesalers continue to inform ATIA’s advocacy and strategic direction.
The CATO Committee will continue to provide strategic leadership for the touring division, working closely with the ATIA Board to advance advocacy, foster industry collaboration and deliver value for members across Australia’s touring sector.
QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO CATO COMMITTEE CHAIR SEAN MARTIN
“It is an honour to join the ATIA Board and represent the CATO community as we begin this new chapter together.”
“Australia’s tour operators and wholesalers make an important contribution to our visitor economy, and I look forward to bringing the perspectives of our members to the Board while helping shape the future direction of Australia’s travel industry.”
“CATO has built an incredibly strong community over many years, and I am proud to strengthen the connection between our members, the CATO Committee and the ATIA Board while ensuring our sector continues to thrive within the broader industry.”
QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO ATIA CHAIR CHRISTIAN HUNTER
“Sean’s appointment further strengthens the breadth of expertise around the ATIA Board table, adding to the significant touring experience already provided by Vice Chair Toni Ambler and Director Brett Mitchell.”
“ATIA’s governance model is designed to ensure every part of our industry has a strong voice. Through the leadership of the CATO Committee, the Association of Travel Management Companies and the Independent Travel Advisors Association, we continue to support the unique needs of each sector while bringing that expertise together to shape the future of Australia’s travel industry.”
“Sean’s appointment also creates a strong connection between the CATO Committee and the ATIA Board, ensuring the priorities of Australia’s tour operators and wholesalers continue to help inform ATIA’s advocacy and strategic leadership.”
