14 December Industry Experts Convene for Inaugural ATAS Advisory Committee Meeting December 14, 2023 By Amanda Rixon Media Release 0 The inaugural meeting in Melbourne mid-November marked a significant milestone in the evolution of the Australian Travel Accreditation Scheme (ATAS). The role of the AAC is to work with ATIA to ensure ATAS is celebrated for its role as a beacon of trust and excellence within the travel industry and for consumers. The volunteer members joining David and Scott on the AAC embody a diverse blend of experience, expertise, skills, and backgrounds: Brett Mitchell from Intrepid, representing Tour Companies. Chad Carey from Chimu, bringing a wealth of knowledge as a Tour Operator. Deb Fox from Abercrombie & Kent, a key Tour Operator. Ken Morgan from ATAC, representing Network/Groups. Steve Hui from Iflyflat, offering a perspective on Online/Hybrid Travel. Gina Norman from RAA, embodying the spirit of Retail Travel. Brett Dann from Hunter Travel Group/Helloworld, with a focus on Retail Travel. Lauren Gray from 1000 Mile Group, representing Host Networks. AAC received briefings from Graham McDonald, Independent Reviewer of ATAS; Hank Spier, Chair ATAS Complaints Appeal Committee; David Padman, ATAS Complaints Appeal Committee Industry and Gerard Brody, Chair Consumer Federation of Australia. 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 ATIA CEO DEAN LONG "The inaugural meeting of the ATAS Advisory Committee marks a pivotal moment in our journey towards enhancing ATAS's relevance, rigor, and responsiveness. We are elated to have such an experienced and diverse group of industry leaders come together. Their strategic insights and advice are invaluable in ATIA’s mission to refine and elevate ATAS as a symbol of excellence in the travel industry." “We look forward to drawing upon our collective expertise across ATIA and AAC to ensure that ATAS continues to be a leading accreditation scheme, recognised by both travel businesses and consumers for its commitment to excellence, integrity, and continuous improvement.” QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO AAC CHAIR DAVID WALKER "Industry accreditation is a complex but highly important part of self-regulation and I am proud to be appointed Chair of the AAC which will provide independent strategic advice and guidance on industry accreditation and governance to the ATIA board, I look forward to working with Scott and the highly respected AAC members over the coming year.” Related Articles Industry Stalwarts and Consumer Representatives Appointed to ATAS Appeals Complaint Committee (ACAC) Industry stalwarts David Padman and Melvyn Almeida, along with consumer representatives Philip Field and Jillian Brewer, have been announced as the committee members for the critically important ATAS Appeals Complaint Committee (ACAC). Record-high ATAS accreditation renewals In a resounding endorsement of the Australian Travel Accreditation Scheme (ATAS), the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) is delighted to report an unprecedented surge in accreditation renewals, demonstrating the industry’s robust confidence in the scheme. ATAS support through complaint process a winner Support through successful management and resolution of customer disputes is one of the many benefits of being ATAS accredited according to participating travel professionals. 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. Mainstream Media Profiling Delivers for ATAS Businesses The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA)’s ongoing mainstream media profiling of ATAS businesses is a winner, with members who continue to benefit from national media exposure. Claiming tax deductions for travel businesses: webinar reminder for ATAS members One of the many benefits of ATAS accreditation is ongoing education for participating travel professionals, and next Tuesday’s webinar will welcome a guest presenter from the ATO to explain claiming tax deductions for small businesses. Showing 0 Comment Comments are closed.