16 August ATIA welcomes Federal Government’s decision to guarantee Rex bookings and urges further support for travel advisors August 16, 2024 By Amanda Rixon Media Release 0 This is a crucial first step; however, this assistance must extend to the wider travel ecosystem, which is significantly impacted by Rex’s situation. Currently, travel businesses are carrying an exposure of $11.5 million due to Rex’s administration. These advisors and agencies have been at the forefront, working tirelessly to assist affected customers and deal with traveller uncertainty while absorbing the financial strain caused by the airline’s operational challenges. Quotes attributable to ATIA CEO Dean Long (available for interview): “While the guarantee for Rex bookings is a vital measure, it is equally important to recognise the burden being shouldered by travel advisors across Australia. These professionals have not only faced substantial financial exposure but have also taken on an increased workload, ensuring that travelling Australians receive the support they need during this difficult time.” “We call on the Federal Government to provide financial assistance to travel advisors and businesses who are also caught up in the Rex situation and who play such a vital role in supporting Australian travellers, corporate and leisure. Extending this support is not just about fairness; it’s about maintaining the resilience and integrity of Australia’s travel sector. We look forward to further discussions with the Government to secure this necessary support.” 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 welcomes extension of Coastal Trading Act and introduction of Australian Travel Declaration With 73% of cruise travellers and at least 70% of Australians’ international air sales relying on travel advisors when making bookings, the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) welcomes two significant federal announcements that support the travel sector. ATIA Welcomes Federal Government’s Reforms to Sydney Airport Slot Management The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) strongly supports the significant reforms to the slot management system at Sydney Airport as the first step towards making flying fairer. ATIA Canberra-bound in strong support for Australian Travel With Parliament sitting again this week, The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) is Canberra-bound to lobby across a number of key areas for its members and the future success of the Australian travel industry. ATIA Welcomes Government’s Fast-Track Passport Announcement The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) welcomes the Federal Government’s Budget announcement to fast-track passport processing, a significant move that aligns with ATIA’s advocacy efforts to make travel as seamless as possible. New ATIA Directors welcomed at 47th AGM ATIA has successfully held its 47th AGM, with three new directors appointed at the meeting today for the FY25 Board. Showing 0 Comment Comments are closed.