15 May ATIA Welcomes Government’s Fast-Track Passport Announcement May 15, 2024 By Amanda Rixon Media Release 0 The introduction of expedited passport services will commence on 1 July 2024, allowing applications to be processed within five business days for an additional fee. This initiative is anticipated to streamline travel for Australians, enhance international mobility, and boost the travel industry’s recovery post-pandemic. QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO ATIA CEO DEAN LONG “We are thrilled by the Government’s decision to fast-track passport processing. This reflects our close relationship and ongoing work with the Australian Passport Office and Government.” “Starting in July, passports can be processed within five business days for an additional fee of $100. This offers a great option for travellers seeking more certainty in receiving their passports, without needing the two-day expedited service, which will soon cost nearly $300.” “It’s also an opportunity to share with clients that, on 1 July, passport fees have an additional 15% increase, so anyone who is looking to renew this year should do so before then.” “On the small-business front, there are several supportive measures. Eligible small businesses will benefit from a $325 reduction in their electricity bills over the year. The $20,000 instant asset write-off has been extended, and additional funding has been allocated to programs providing free financial and well-being support for small business owners. In terms of skills and training, the Government has partially reversed previously announced cuts to traineeship incentives. This reversal applies to occupations on the Priority List, so retaining Travel Consultants on this list is a significant victory for our industry.” Related Articles 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. 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. 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. 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. New Chair and Vice Chair for ATIA The ATIA board has elected Christian Hunter as Chair, and Laura Ruffles has been elected Vice Chair alongside Graham Turner, who is returning as Vice Chair. ATIA unveils NTIA 2023 nominees and opens voting process The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) is excited to announce and congratulations the nominees of the National Travel Industry Awards (NTIA) 2023. Showing 0 Comment Comments are closed.