9 September ATIA Advocacy saves Travel Agents up to $100 Million in costs on Aviation Ombudsman September 9, 2025 By Amanda Rixon Media Release 0 Our advocacy has saved members from the burden of new regulations and compliance costs estimated at between $40 and $100 million. These are costs that would have landed squarely on the shoulders of agents for issues outside their control. Thanks to ATIA’s advocacy, those burdens have been avoided, while customers booking through agents will continue to enjoy the same protections as those booking direct. This outcome is the result of a determined campaign since September 2023with four rounds of consultation, multiple submissions, evidence before a Senate inquiry, and direct engagement with Ministers, the ACCC and senior officials. It is also a direct reflection of the ATIA Accredited framework, which already provides a free and fair mediation service for consumers. ATIA will continue to engage through the next stage of consultations to ensure this outcome is locked in and becomes law. For individual businesses, the savings are significant. For the sector as a whole, it is proof of the power of a united voice. Members should be proud as it is your collective commitment to accreditation and high standards that made this possible. QUOTE ATTRIBUTABLE TO ATIA CEO DEAN LONG: “Our advocacy has saved agents up to $100 million in unnecessary costs. This is money that stays in our members’ businesses instead of being lost to red tape.” “This is exactly why ATIA exists - to be the strong, collective voice that secures outcomes individual businesses simply couldn’t achieve alone.” “For those not yet members, this is the moment to recognise what ATIA delivers. Without us, the outcome would have been very different. Being accredited is more than a quality mark; it is about being part of a collective that protects, defends and elevates our profession.” Related Articles Travel has a new home – the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) The Australian Travel Industry has a new peak industry body representing travel agents and advisors, tour operators, consolidators and wholesalers replacing the Australian Federation of Travel Agents (AFTA) effective today. ATIA Highlights the Critical Role of Travel Advisors This Global Travel Advisor Day The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) is using Global Travel Advisor Day (7 May 2025) to highlight the critical contribution accredited travel businesses and their incredible staff make every day to safer, smarter travel and championing their value as trusted professionals supporting millions of Australians. ATIA and My First Job Launch “The Travel Gap” to Expand Travel Workforce The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) has joined forces with My First Job, the innovative youth employment platform, to launch The Travel Gap, a new initiative designed to inspire and support school leavers in discovering exciting, real-world careers within Australia’s travel industry. Rising Costs and Impacts of Flight Cancellations on Australian Travel and Tourism, Revealed by ATIA Research The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) today draws attention to the significant economic impact of domestic flight cancellations, as detailed in a recent research paper commissioned by the ATIA. ATIA Travel Trends Report: Americans flock to Australia while Aussies favour Asia The Australian Travel Industry Association's (ATIA) latest Travel Trends Report reveals a fascinating shift in travel patterns, with a significant surge in visitors from the United States to Australia, even as outbound Australian travel to the USA sees a decline. ATIA Delivering for All Members, Including Travel Advisors - Multiple channels ensure every member group has a strong voice and tangible support The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) has reaffirmed that everything it does is shaped by the voices of its members. From policy advocacy to accreditation to tailored industry support, ATIA ensures members’ perspectives directly guide priorities, decisions, and outcomes across the sector. Showing 0 Comment