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ATIA celebrates industry leader Mike Thompson’s OAM for service to Travel and the Arts

The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) congratulates Mike Thompson on being awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the King’s Birthday Honours List for his exceptional service to the tourism and travel industry.
 
Mike Thompson’s leadership has left a lasting legacy across both the travel industry and the cultural sector. As Chairman of ATIA from 2009 to 2018, and a Director prior to that, Mike was instrumental in strengthening the Association’s national presence and advocacy during a transformative period for Australian travel businesses. He was awarded life membership of the Association in 2019.
 
Throughout his career, Mike held senior leadership roles including CEO of Travelscene American Express, General Manager Partnerships at Helloworld Travel, and Head of Supplier Relations at American Express. He also served as a trustee of the Travel Compensation Fund, contributing to consumer protection and financial accountability within the industry.
 
Mike’s influence extended well beyond the travel sector. A committed supporter of the arts, he has been a long-time patron of iconic Australian institutions including the Sydney Youth Orchestra, Brandenburg Orchestra, Australian Chamber Orchestra, Bell Shakespeare Company, Belvoir Theatre, Sydney Dance Company, and Bangarra Dance Company.
 
QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO ATIA CEO DEAN LONG:
“Mike Thompson’s impact on our industry cannot be overstated. He was a fearless advocate for the independent agency owners ensuring their issues were always centrally considered by the Board”.
 
“He led with integrity, insight and a deep respect for the role travel businesses play in connecting people and communities—qualities that make this recognition richly deserved.”
 
“Mike’s contribution reflects the best of the Australian travel industry through his dedicated leadership, national advocacy, and a profound commitment to enriching Australian cultural life.”