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Members at the Helm: ATIA Refreshes Accreditation Advisory Committee to Shape Industry Direction

The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) today announced the appointment of new members to its Accreditation Advisory Committee (AAC), reinforcing the Association’s commitment to a member-led, robust accreditation framework.

At the core of ATIA is the belief that the industry’s future is best shaped by the people who power it every day. As the initial two-year terms for several founding members conclude, this scheduled refresh brings new voices to the table to ensure the “ATIA Accredited” mark remains the definitive gold standard for professionalism and consumer trust.

ATIA is pleased to welcome four new industry leaders to the committee for a two-year term:

• Rebecca Day, Regional Head of Sales, Stuba 
• Stephen Brady, Group General Manager Cruise, Helloworld Travel Ltd 
• Kylee Ellerton, Owner/Director, Frank Ford Travel 
• Judy Tanner, Managing Director, Aurora Travel Services Pty Ltd 

Scott Darlow, Chad Carey, and Gina Norman have been reappointed for a second term. They continue their service alongside Chair David Walker, and members Ken Morgan, Brett Dann, Lauren Gray, and Karen Deveson. 

ATIA extends its sincere thanks and appreciation to departing members Debra Fox and Steve Hui.Their significant contributions have been vital in building the robust foundation upon which the AAC continues to grow. 

With three meetings scheduled for 2026, the committee will be instrumental in progressing the A30 Industry Led Protection Scheme and ensuring accreditation remains fit-for-purpose in a rapidly evolving market. 

About ATAS
ATAS, the Travel Sector’s prestigious accreditation programme, is pivotal in distinguishing exemplary travel businesses that meet and exceed the highest industry benchmarks. Accreditation under ATAS is contingent upon stringent criteria, including an in-depth analysis of business models, compliance with Australian Consumer Law, indemnity insurance verification, workforce qualification standards, annual financial reviews, daily director checks, and a robust consumer complaints programme. 

QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO AAC CHAIR DAVID WALKER 

"The AAC is the primary vehicle for ensuring ATIA accreditation remains the most representative and robust scheme in Australia. I want to thank our outgoing members for their incredible service and welcome our new appointees. Their willingness to step forward and volunteer their expertise ensures our accreditation remains fit-for-purpose for businesses of all sizes, from independent agencies to major corporate players.” 

From advising on solvency standards to endorsing landmark changes to the complaints resolution process, this committee ensures ATAS remains an independent, sector-informed forum for resolving claims. I am honoured to work with such a capable group as we continue to strengthen consumer trust in the 'ATIA Accredited' brand." 

QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO INCOMING AAC MEMBER REBECCA DAY 

“The ATAS accreditation program is a highly valuable one. Consumers need reassurance now more than ever when booking travel, making the promotion of the program increasingly important. Championing accreditation plays a crucial role in strengthening consumer confidence and supporting responsible booking behaviour. Through my day to day work, I have first-hand experience with the practical concerns of members giving value insight into the challenges that face our industry today. In addition, my 30 years of  experience in the travel industry enables me to provide a balanced, non-biased perspective on the issues facing our sector.”

QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO INCOMING AAC MEMBER STEVE BRADY

“The ATAS accreditation program is a highly valuable one. Consumers need reassurance now more than ever when booking travel, making the promotion of the program increasingly important. Championing accreditation plays a crucial role in strengthening consumer confidence and supporting responsible booking behaviour. Through my day to day work, I have first-hand experience with the practical concerns of members giving value insight into the challenges that face our industry today. In addition, my 25 years of experience in the travel industry enables me to provide a balanced, non-biased perspective on the issues facing our sector.”

QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO INCOMING AAC MEMBER KYLEE ELLERTON

"Having owned an agency since 2004, I’ve seen many changes in our industry. I want to be a voice for our members and the future of our sector. Following our NTIA win last year for the most outstanding leisure travel agency, this is the perfect time to volunteer my expertise to such an important advocacy group within ATIA."

QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO INCOMING AAC MEMBER JUDY TANNER

"I have been a travel advisor for 48 years progressing from consultant to retail travel management then corporate management positions. In 1992 I became an independent consultant - probably the one of the first in Australia. Seventeen years ago I started my own bricks and mortar agency, Aurora Travel in Middle Park, with a team of five travel designers and three Independent contractors.”

“I am passionate about our industry and have been heartened by the rise of our professional profile since Covid. I want to work to continue this momentum, to encourage training and collaboration amongst each other so that the career of a travel advisor is valued, respected and rewarded appropriately. I am dedicated to this fabulous industry and would take my appointment to this committee as a great honour to be part of the future evolution of the travel industry in Australia.”