AFTA boss to host special webinar on COVID-19
The Australian Federation of Travel Agents (AFTA) is inviting members to join a special webinar for an update on the impact of COVID-19 on the travel industry and how the association is responding to the crisis.
The webinar will be hosted by AFTA chief executive Jayson Westbury on Monday 23 March, and will provide participants with an update on what is known about COVID-19, an outline of activities with government, and practical options that should be considered at this time.
Members who tune in to the webinar will also have an opportunity to ask questions.
Agents can either register for the 11am session or the 2pm session. For all enquiries, call (02) 9287 9900.
Featured image: iStock/vladwel
Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au
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At times like now, it is good to see that AFTA is providing service by way of clarifying information through various announcements from the authorities regarding coronavirus outbreak in the country and for submitting a request to Government for a Travel Industry Emergency Package.
Perhaps there is another a more immediate step for AFTA (for that matter most membership based industry associations) to take into consideration in this trying times to help alleviate cost pressures upon the industry. That is, to provide a substantial discount or free of fees for a certain period while the crisis continues and while the industry is facing a major downturn from the absence of travelers or holiday makers. While this might not amount to a major expense for large travel corporations, (although it would help) it will make a difference for the small, medium and micro enterprises, of which we have plenty in our industry to allow a little bit of extra cash flow. Providing relief on fees for both AFTA & ATAS membership fees for say a minimum of 6 months would equate to at least a week’s pay for a front line staff who are facing a major difficulty to maintain their livelihood. It might even be an idea to make this benefit conditional to those companies which WILL retain their staff.
As this initiative has not been suggested by others, AFTA could take a lead in giving back to the members what it has collected over years.
It is purely a food for thought for our travel providers to discuss this option with AFTA and possibly request this relief. Perhaps there is an opportunity to raise this with Jayson Westbury at the upcoming special AFTA webinar on the 23rd March