Virgin Australia lands as ATIA's new Domestic Airline Partner

Mon, 07 Sep 2026 14:34:57 GMT

1 September 2026: Virgin Australia has been named the Domestic Airline Partner of the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA), backing our advocacy and member events in every corner of the country, all year round.

ATIA is delighted Virgin Australia has entered a partnership that plays a vital role in supporting and celebrating the travel industry.
Nowhere is that support more valuable than across the travel industry's most important weekend of the year, Beyond Borders and the National Travel Industry Awards (NTIA), where industry leaders gather to hear the latest trends and recognise innovation and excellence.

At Beyond Borders on Friday, 9 October, Virgin Australia will create the Virgin Australia Lounge at the Melbourne Convention Centre, providing delegates a dedicated space to connect, recharge and do business between sessions.

Virgin Australia will also serve as Master of Ceremonies Sponsor for the NTIA Gala Dinner at the Palladium, Crown Melbourne, on Saturday, 10 October 2026, which celebrates the very best of the Australian travel industry.

Quotes attributable to Virgin Australia General Manager of Sales Darren McDermott:
“Virgin Australia is proud to strengthen our partnership with the Australian Travel Industry Association as its Domestic Airline Partner and to once again support the National Travel Industry Awards as MC Sponsor.

“Our agency partners play an incredibly important role in helping us connect Australians and supporting the growth of our industry. Their expertise, advocacy and commitment to our collective customers are central to Virgin Australia's ongoing success, and we deeply value the relationships we have built across the travel community.

“Through our partnership with ATIA, we look forward to working even more closely with its members, supporting the important work they do and celebrating the outstanding people and businesses that make our industry so special."

Quotes attributable to ATIA Chief Executive Officer Dean Long:
“Our members value practical engagement, clear communication and opportunities to connect with the organisations that shape the travel experience for their clients. Virgin Australia’s support helps strengthen those industry connections through ATIA’s major events and member platforms.”

“Through its support of Beyond Borders and the NTIA, Virgin Australia is helping ATIA deliver two important moments for the industry: one focused on the conversations shaping travel’s future, and one focused on celebrating the professionalism, service and expertise of travel agents, tour operators and travel businesses across Australia.”

“Virgin Australia is a welcome addition to the ATIA community and we are delighted to have their support.”

MEDIA CONTACT: LJ Loch, ATIA Director of Communications and Media, 0488 038 555 or lj.loch@atia.travel.

Switzerland Tourism joins as major sponsor for Beyond Borders on the Road (BBOTR) Adelaide

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 10:06:21 GMT

ATIA's highly successful Beyond Borders on the Road (BBOTR) series will continue in Adelaide on 20 July, bringing the national series to South Australia for its second year.

Attendees will be briefed on the latest industry developments by ATIA’s leadership and advocacy team as well as enjoying BBOTR’s signature networking and industry connection opportunities.

ATIA is delighted to announce Switzerland Tourism as major sponsor for BBOTR Adelaide. As part of their sponsorship, Switzerland Tourism will provide a presentation on their engagement with the Australian travel industry in preparation for a busy autumn season.

With the recent travel advisory lowered across the Middle East, Australians now feel more confident transiting through to Europe and strong relationships with European tourism sectors are important for travel businesses looking to book the best experiences and itineraries for their clients.

Tickets are selling fast, so don’t wait! Secure your spot at atia.travel/bbotr.

QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO DEAN LONG, ATIA CEO:
“ATIA extends a huge thank you to Switzerland Tourism for sponsoring BBOTR Adelaide. We’re excited to be bringing BBOTR back to Adelaide for a second year of tailored sessions offering thought leadership and industry updates. We’re already seeing a boom in European travel bookings from Australians for Eurosummer, and Switzerland Tourism’s session will equip members with the strategic understanding to get clients booking travel.”

QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO SONIA HOLT, SWITZERLAND TOURISM MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER ANZ:
“We’re excited to be sponsoring BBTOR in Adelaide and look forward to connecting with travel professionals from across the industry. Now’s the time for the Australian travel industry to be planning trips to Europe, and we’ll be sharing insights into our travel trade strategy in our session so that professionals can help clients plan their trips with ease.”

Get your submissions in! Only 72 hours until NTIA submissions are due

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 10:28:21 GMT

There’s only three days left for NTIA nominees in select categories to finalise their submissions before the portal closes at 11.59pm 1 July, with finalists to be announced in early August.

The submission process is the chance for nominees to demonstrate their achievements over the last twelve months and authentically write or speak about their passion for the travel industry. For categories requiring a submission, submitting via the portal is essential for nominees to be in the running to become an NTIA finalist and proceed for a chance to win a prestigious NTIA.

All submissions will be scored by an independent assessor, with the top 5 nominees in each category proceeding as finalists. Independent assessors are used to ensure that judging is robust, rigourous and free of potential bias.

Finalists will attend a virtual interview with a panel of NTIA industry judges, with winners revealed at The Crown in Melbourne on 10 October.

For more information on the 2026 NTIA program and judging process, visit: https://atia.eventsair.com/ntia-2026-awards-program/

Beyond Borders and NTIA ticket sales kick off with exclusive package offers

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 14:23:08 GMT

Ticket packages for Beyond Borders and NTIA 2026 are now on sale! With 2026 on track to be the biggest year on record, ticket packages have been reshaped in line with member feedback and include tickets to the full suite of events:

Beyond Borders Travel Summit
NTIA Finalist Celebration
Wellness 5k
National Travel Industry Awards including After Party.

The full weekend package includes 4 tickets to each event, with the option to choose a table of 10 for NTIA. If you’re looking to secure tickets for your team for the full weekend of celebrations, now is the time to get your tickets before it’s too late.

Get your package tickets here: https://atia.eventsair.com/atia-premier-events/tickets

NTIA has always been a sell out, weekend, and we’re expecting 2026 to be the biggest weekend on record. Last year nearly 450 people were on the waitlist for the NTIA.

This weekend of events is truly unmissable for the travel industry, bringing together the full industry to recognise excellence, connect with peers, and engage in thought leadership across travel.

QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO DEAN LONG, ATIA CEO:

“The ATIA weekend is the largest travel event in Australia and the early bird packages are great value for money. Beyond Borders and NTIA is the highlight of the travel industry’s calendar, and ticket packages are the best way to secure your team’s spot. Come for Beyond Borders and NTIA, stay for the other fantastic events and connection across the industry.”

ONE INDUSTRY, ONE VOICE: ATIA CAPS ITS STRONGEST YEAR AT 49TH AGM

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 11:05:49 GMT

The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) has completed the most ambitious structural expansion in its history, saved members up to $100 million in regulatory costs, and posted record satisfaction and financial results.

ATIA's 49th Annual General Meeting, held on this morning in Sydney, formally adopted the Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 March 2026.

Christian Hunter was confirmed as Chair, with Graham Turner and Toni Ambler continuing as Vice Chairs. Five Directors were returned to the Board: David Smith (Flight Centre Travel Group), Rohan Moss (Helloworld Travel Limited), Toni Ambler (The Travel Corporation), Peter Muller (CT Partners), and Brett Mitchell (Intrepid Travel).
One Peak Body. Every Sector. One Voice.

Three years into Project A30, ATIA has delivered on every structural commitment made at its founding Beyond Borders Summit.

The ATMC merger brought corporate travel managers formally into ATIA's structure. The launch of the Independent Travel Agents Association (ITAA) gave home-based advisers, boutique operators, and regional retailers dedicated representation with a genuine role in shaping policy. The member-approved merger with the Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) brings tour operators and wholesalers into the same structure, completing the picture.

Every segment of Australian travel now sits within a single, coordinated structure. When ATIA engages government, media, and the travelling public, it speaks for the whole industry.

The Advocacy Result of the Year: Up to $100 Million Saved

The exclusion of travel agents and tour operators from the Aviation Ombudsman Scheme is the standout advocacy win of 2025/26, delivering an estimated $40 to $100 million in compliance cost savings directly to members. For many small and independent businesses, these are costs they simply would not have had the capital to absorb.

It did not happen by accident. ATIA engaged in four formal consultation rounds, appeared before a Senate Inquiry, made multiple written submissions, and maintained intensive engagement with Ministers and the ACCC until the outcome was secured.

Across the year, ATIA lodged 10 formal submissions, held 128 meetings with key political leaders, and conducted more than 100 public service discussions.

Accreditation: The Bar That Means Something

ATIA's accreditation program held its standard. Twenty-eight new businesses joined the ATIA Accredited community, choosing to hold themselves to the highest professional benchmark in Australian travel. Member renewal sat at 98.5 per cent. Twenty-two per cent of those who sought accreditation during the year did not meet the required standard and were refused.

The 2025 ATAS Charter Review updated the program's standards to reflect how the industry actually operates today. Industry-led oversight through the Accreditation Advisory Committee ensures equal representation from agents, tour operators, wholesalers, and networks. That integrity underpins ATIA's credibility with government and regulators.
Member Services

Enterprise Benchmarking Reports gave members individually tailored business insights at no charge, allowing businesses of every size to compare their operations against industry peers. Revamped Pulse meetings created genuine forums for dialogue across all member segments, from solo agents and mobile consultants through to tour operators and networks.
Record Financial Results

Total revenue grew 21 per cent to $3.64 million, driven by strong corporate partnerships and a record National Travel Industry Awards. A net surplus of $279,328 was directed back into reserves, with fee relief extended to members. The average membership fee for businesses with a TTV under $10 million remains $1,127. The Association's Net Promoter Score reached 79 against an internal target of 50.

Of every dollar members contribute, 42 cents goes directly to member services; 25 cents funds advocacy; 14 cents maintains the accreditation scheme; and 19 cents covers essential operating costs. Every dollar is working for members.

QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO ATIA CHAIR CHRISTIAN HUNTER

"Three years ago, we made a commitment at Beyond Borders that every segment of this industry would have a real seat at the table and a genuine voice in shaping outcomes. The ATMC merger, the launch of ITAA, and the CATO merger are not separate initiatives. They are the delivery of that commitment. One peak body. Every sector represented. One co-ordinated voice."

"Keeping travel agents and tour operators out of the Aviation Ombudsman Scheme was the advocacy result of the year. It did not happen by accident. It was four consultation rounds, a Senate Inquiry, and sustained expert engagement until the outcome was secured. That is up to $100 million our members will never have to find. For small and independent businesses, that is real money."

"An NPS of 79 against a target of 50. Retention at 98.5 per cent. Revenue up 21 per cent. A surplus that goes straight back into what we offer members. That is what a peak body in good shape looks like, and I am enormously proud of what this Board, this team, and this membership have built together."

ATIA delivers live updates for members alongside Smartraveller and key suppliers in response to downgraded Middle East advisory level

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 11:02:59 GMT

With traveller interest spiking following the adjustment of the Government's Travel Advisory Level, ATIA is again hosting a real-time supplier update webinar on Wednesday 24 June to bring clarity and practical tools for members to understand what the advisory downgrade means for travel insurance.

This webinar builds on the incredible value of the live supplier updates that ATIA coordinated in March when the conflict in the Middle East began – and has been tailored in line with member feedback on the value of real-time industry updates.

A huge thank you to the webinar speakers from Cover-More Travel Insurance, NIB Insurance, PassportCard, Go Insurance, DFAT and Smartraveller who will be facilitating the webinar alongside ATIA.

Each speaker will deliver a session exploring key differences in insurer responses, important considerations when advising clients travelling through the Middle East and practical insights to help you provide informed advice and manage client expectations.
ATIA members will receive the registration link via email.

QUOTE ATTRIBUTABLE TO DEAN LONG, ATIA CEO:
“ATIA’s live updates throughout this conflict have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from our members, and we will continue to deliver clear, timely information across our channels. The webinar will be hosted alongside other industry leaders who will be sharing their insights into what the advisory downgrade means for travel insurance.”

TRAVEL ADVICE DOWNGRADE A WIN FOR AUSTRALIAN TRAVELLERS

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 19:50:15 GMT

The Australian Government has lowered its travel advice for Bahrain, Israel,
Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates from Level 4 "Do Not Travel" to Level 3 "Reconsider
your need to travel." ATIA is calling it a win for Australian travellers.

The change matters most for Australians travelling through Middle Eastern hubs to reach Europe,
the United Kingdom, India, and Africa. More than 150,000 Australians have transited through the
region in the past six weeks alone.

Throughout this period, ATIA has worked constructively with the Australian Government, DFAT,
and Smartraveller to ensure travel advice reflects both the risks on the ground and the practical
realities facing Australian travellers, particularly those transiting. That work will continue.
The Level 4 advisory created real complications and confusion for travellers with brief airside
transits, especially around insurance cover. Today's downgrade removes that.
Level 3 remains a high threshold and the Government’s advice is that non-essential travel should
be avoided. Travellers should check Smartraveller.gov.au before booking and before departing,
and confirm their travel insurance covers their specific routing. DFAT continues to advise "Do Not
Travel" to Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Palestine, Syria and Yemen. Some areas within Israel also remain
"Do Not Travel."

If you’ve had travel plans on hold or were avoiding routing through the Gulf, ATIA recommends
speaking with an ATIA-accredited travel agent or tour operator before booking. They’re across
exactly what the advisory change means, what’s covered by your insurance policy, and how to
structure your booking for the best protection. A directory of ATIA-accredited travel agents and
tour operators is available at traveltick.com.au.

QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO ATIA CEO DEAN LONG
"This is a sensible and welcome adjustment, and one ATIA has been seeking for some time. For
many Australians, these hubs are the connecting points that get them to the UK, Europe, India
and Africa. In seeking a travel advisory level commensurate with the reality of travel as a
transiting passenger, ATIA was looking to ensure transiting passengers had all the benefits of
travel insurance while on the ground.”

“Additionally, with 150,000 Australians having safely travelled through those hubs, we wanted to
ensure consumer confidence in Smartraveller’s advice remains optimum – travellers were telling
our members that the “do not travel” advice for passing through just didn’t seem to hit the right
balance.”

"Smartraveller is a vital resource and it is important that the advice it carries remains
proportionate and current. The Smartraveller program was not designed for a limited conflict at
key international hubs. We acknowledge that these decisions are always difficult to get right.
Today’s decision strikes the right balance between the security advice and ensuring travellers
can have sufficient and comprehensive insurance protection as they travel through.”

"The best thing any traveller can do right now is speak with an ATIA Accredited travel agent or
tour operator before they book. They will make sure your routing, your cover, and your
documentation are right before you reach the airport."

Biggest year in NTIA history as voting opens

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 12:22:17 GMT

Have your say for NTIA 2026! Voting is now open from 12noon AEST today for selected categories of the National Travel Industry Awards (NTIAs). 2026 is on track to be NTIA’s biggest year on record, with over 2,000 peer nominations received.

Voting is open to anyone employed within the Australian Travel Industry, ensuring broad industry participation – but remember, you cannot vote for your own organisation. Cast your votes before 11:45pm AEST 17 July at https://atia.eventsair.com/ntia-2026-awards-program/industry-voting.

For 2026, ATIA has refreshed the voting process; voters will be asked to rate each nominee based on their trade support and product offering. Whilst voting was previously measured by the number of votes received, the new rating system allows the recognition of outstanding conduct amongst NTIA nominees.

The voted categories include:
•   Category 21 - Most Outstanding Tour Operator - Specialised
•   Category 22 - Most Outstanding Tour Operator - Global
•   Category 23 - Most Outstanding Wholesaler - Product / Service
•   Category 24 - Most Outstanding Wholesaler - Destination / Experience
•   Category 25 - Most Popular Tourism Office
•   Category 26 - Most Popular Accommodation Group / Chain
•   Category 27 - Most Popular Airline - Online
•   Category 28 - Most Popular Airline - Offline
•   Category 29 - Most Popular Ocean Cruise Operator
•   Category 30 - Most Popular River Cruise Operator
•   Category 31 - Most Popular Car Rental Operator
•   Category 32 - Most Popular Reservations / Groups Team
•   Category 35 - Most Outstanding Travel Support Service

The full list of NTIA 2026 nominees is now available on the ATIA website: https://atia.eventsair.com/ntia-2026-awards-program/nominees
NTIA 2026 features a refined list of 36 categories providing more opportunities than ever before to shine a spotlight on exceptional individuals, teams and businesses.

Winners will be announced at the NTIA Gala Dinner on Saturday 10 October 2026. The weekend of celebrations will begin with the Beyond Borders Summit on Friday 9 October which will bring together cross-industry learning and networking opportunities.

QUOTE ATTRIBUTABLE TO DEAN LONG, ATIA CEO:
“2026 is shaping up to be a huge year for NTIA, with another record-breaking year for nominations. Our updated rating system for votes keeps the awards comprehensive and avoids any potential slant towards larger businesses from a purely popularity-based vote. You’ve got until 17 July to get your votes in, so make sure you have your say.”

Travel industry legend Gina Dounis celebrates 30 years supporting Australian Travel Businesses

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 12:19:35 GMT

There would be few travel professionals in Australia who haven't spoken to ATIA’s Compliance & Membership Supervisor, Gina Dounis at some point during their careers.

For 30 years, Gina has been one of the industry's most trusted sources of advice and support, helping thousands of travel businesses navigate compliance requirements, accreditation processes, industry changes and the everyday challenges of running a travel business.

Today marks 30 years of Gina supporting members.

Having first joined the Association when it was known as AFTA in 1990, Gina returned on 3 June 1996 and has remained a constant through some of the most significant changes the industry has experienced. From the transition from fax machines to email, to the evolution of accreditation programs and the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Gina has been there supporting members every step of the way.

Today, ATIA recognises Gina's remarkable contribution to Australia's travel community and thanks her for three decades of dedication to the businesses and professionals that make up the industry.

QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO ATIA CEO DEAN LONG:

“Gina is one of the most respected and recognisable people in Australian travel. There would be very few members who haven't picked up the phone and spoken to her at some point during their careers.”

“Gina has supported generations of travel professionals and has become part of the fabric of our industry. Her contribution to Australian travel cannot be overstated.”

“On behalf of ATIA, our Board and members across the country, congratulations to Gina on this remarkable milestone and thank you for 30 years of dedication to our industry.”

NTIA nominees announced in another record-breaking year for submissions

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 11:32:27 GMT

It’s here! ATIA is pleased to announce the 2026 nominees for the National Travel Industry Awards (NTIA).

NTIA 2026 will be held on 10 October in Melbourne and is set to be the biggest year on record, with over 2,000 peer nominations received from every corner of the travel industry; beating out 2025’s previous record by more than 300 additional nominations!

Find the full list of nominees at https://atia.eventsair.com/ntia-2026-awards-program/nominees

This year there are 36 categories which have been refreshed in line with feedback from our NTIA Custodians.

Next steps for nominees depend on the category. Visit the ATIA awards program website for more information on the judging methodology.

Get ready to have your say when voting for the supplier categories opens on 15 June and make sure you’ve locked in your votes before July 17.
Finalists for the judged categories will be announced in late July, so keep an eye out!
NTIA 2026 is set to be a huge weekend for the travel industry, including Beyond Borders, the Finalists Celebration, the NTIA Gala and, of course, the Wellness 5km!

QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO DEAN LONG, ATIA CEO:
“It’s wonderful to see NTIA go from strength to strength and our 2026 celebrations are already shaping up to be one of the largest we’ve ever had. We look forward to seeing everyone in Melbourne for Beyond Borders on Friday 9 October and then NTIAs on Saturday 10 October. Get voting to show your support for those in Travel who represent the very best of our sector!”