AFTA boss to host special webinar on COVID-19

Video on laptop vector illustration, flat cartoon computer screen with online webinar concept top view, idea of tutorial watching, e-learning,

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

    Latest comments
    1. 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

afta australian federation of travel agents coronavirus COVID-19 jayson westbury travel agents webinar

Latest News

  • Sustainability
  • Wholesalers

The Intrepid Foundation launches appeal to support Northern Vietnamese communities following Typhoon Yagi

Intrepid Travel has launched an emergency appeal through its not-for-profit, The Intrepid Foundation, to support impacted communities in Northern Vietnam following Typhoon Yagi, which made landfall on 7 September, 2024. All funds raised through the appeal will go directly to grassroots organisation Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation, to provide immediate relief to thousands without shelter, food […]

  • Aviation

Philippine Airlines and VietJet look to community connection near Western Sydney Airport

Both Philippine Airlines and VietJet will explore services from Western Sydney Airport with the airport’s proximity to the Filipino and Vietnamese diaspora in Sydney potentially beneficial to both carriers. Philippine Airlines VP revenue management and commercial planning Alex Featherstone, speaking at the CAPA Airline Leader Summit Australia Pacific, said the carrier would “explore” the potential […]

  • Tourism

Australian Cycle Tours adds new cycle trip to the Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail

Australian Cycle Tours has added a new, extended cycle trip that includes all sections of the popular Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail. The new trip commences in Beechworth with the first two days cycling with a transfer back to Beechworth, before continuing to Myrtleford and Bright, with a cycle on the newest sections of […]

  • Events
  • News

Anangu Communities Foundation raises $75,000 at its third annual Sydney fundraiser

Generous supporters gathered at the Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour for the third annual Anangu Communities Foundation Sydney fundraiser to help raise $75,000. Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia administers the Foundation which so far has funded over $3 million in projects to support Anangu communities of Central Australia with a focus on building community capacity in healthcare, […]

  • News
  • Travel Agents

‘Virtuoso on Tour’ photos: Virtuoso showcases its best to agent base

Virtuoso hosted its second annual Virtuoso On Tour,  a destinations event at the ICC in Sydney showcasing tour operators, tourism boards and more to its agent family. The event is designed for travel agency members in Australia and New Zealand to network with Virtuoso partners across the globe. It housed six destination-themed pavilions (Australia & […]

  • Destinations
  • Tourism

The NT tops list of hidden gem attractions out of Aussie states

As Australia steps into spring with temperatures set to rise above average, new research has revealed the states with the most must-see hidden gem attractions with the great outdoors proving a winner! The study, conducted by travel and luggage experts at Bounce, used Tripadvisor and search data to uncover Australia’s most treasured destinations. The Northern […]

  • Health & Wellness
  • Hotels

Fusion Hotel Group celebrates World Wellness Weekend

Vietnam’s wellness-inspired Fusion Hotel Group is celebrating World Wellness Weekend from 20-22 September with yoga and other healthy living activities. Fusion Hotel Group has introduced a series of events and activities for guests at five of its luxury beachfront resorts in Vietnam to World Wellness Weekend. The exclusive offers include yoga, meditation, onsen baths, Zumba, […]

  • Hotels

InterContinental Wellington unveils new Health Club and Classic Rooms makeover

InterContinental Wellington has announced the completion of its newly revamped Health Club and a stylish makeover of its Classic Rooms. Bringing a new level of luxury to its 79 Classic Rooms, including eight accessible rooms, the hotel has meticulously re-styled these spaces in collaboration with Y-6, an acclaimed Interior Architecture and Design studio based in […]