“Recovery will be muted and restrained”: Industry bigwigs warn that ending Australia’s international travel ban will not save the industry
![Father and son traveling by plane](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
Finally, after 20 months, the federal government will lift Australia’s travel ban in November, but industry heavyweights say much more needs to be done before a recovery can take place.
On Friday, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said Australia will lift its ban on overseas travel next month, but industry figures are urging the government to meet with industry bodies and establish a clear path to a resumption of travel.
But while the PM’s announcement was “the best news we have had so far this year”, according to Australian Federation of Travel Agents (AFTA) chair Tom Manwaring, the next steps in Australia’s reopening plan will be crucial.
“Along with eliminating airline seat caps, the aim must be quickly removing all hurdles for all approved, vaccinated inbound passengers to access rapid testing,” he said.
“Once they get a negative test, they should be able to go about normal activity immediately.”
Australia’s travel sector has been in hard lockdown for 600 days already, and Manwaring warned that until international travel normalises in 2022, an ongoing financial lifeline is now critical for the 30,000 Australians working in travel and the 3,000 agencies and businesses who employ them.
“As so many Australians have discovered during COVID, travel agents are essential and even more important given the challenges of travelling internationally [and] given the morass of differing requirements,” Manwaring said.
Philip Goh, regional vice president of the International Air Transportation Association (IATA) regional vice president, echoed AFTA’s concerns.
“Realistically, the woes of the travel and tourism sectors will persist as long as passenger caps are retained for unvaccinated arrivals and quarantine remains even for the vaccinated,” he said.
“International travel recovery will be muted and restrained when quarantine remains.”
Goh urged the federal government to follow guidance from the World Health Organization by relaxing measures and/or quarantine requirements for travellers who are fully vaccinated, and to provide alternatives for unvaccinated individuals through testing.
“A number of major states – the US, Canada, European states – have lifted quarantine requirements for international arrivals. Australia needs to work towards a similar approach,” Goh said.
Australia’s Prime Minister said on Friday that once home quarantine pilots in NSW and South Australia are complete, fully-vaccinated citizens and permanent residents will be able to quarantine at home for seven days instead of forking out thousands of dollars for two weeks in hotel quarantine.
Unvaccinated Australians will still need to follow the pre-existing hotel quarantine requirements.
Those who can’t be vaccinated because they are under 12 or have a medical condition will be treated as vaccinated for the purpose of travel.
Margy Osmond, CEO of Australia’s Tourism and Transport Forum, said she will work closely with the federal government to ensure quarantine requirements will taper off as quickly as possible as vaccination numbers increase.
“We will also be calling for international inbound tourists, international business travellers and those travelling for major events to be allowed to travel as freely as outbound and returning Australians, as the immediate next step,” she said.
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Margy-Osmond-e1592371890561.png)
TTF chief executive Margy Osmond
Michael Kaine, national secretary at the Transport Workers’ Union, has also expressed concerns about aviation, arguing that while flights taking off again will bring relief to struggling workers, the reprieve will be short-lived if safety measures are not enforced.
“Rapid pre-flight testing must be urgently established across the international and domestic networks to reduce the risk of transmission and keep planes flying day in, day out,” Kaine said.
“We must arm ourselves with every available weapon to protect aviation from COVID shocks, but we have been provided no such plan from the federal government.”
In terms of cruise travel, the regional head of the Cruise Lines International Association, Joel Katz, said the government’s lack of action on cruising meant that the jobs of more than 18,000 Australians were still in doubt.
“Australia is now one of the only major cruise markets in the world with no clear plan for cruising’s revival,” Katz said.
“We need detailed discussions with Australian governments so we can break the cycle of inaction and agree upon a detailed framework for cruising’s resumption.
“The health protocols introduced overseas are working and we need an opportunity to introduce them in Australia so we can plan a careful and responsible recovery.”
Qantas’ resumption of international flights pushed forward
Australia’s national carrier has brought forward the restart of its international flights in light of the government’s announcement.
In September, Qantas revealed it would resume international flights across 12 routes from 18 December, including London, Los Angeles, Honolulu, Fiji, Vancouver and Singapore.
However, the airline announced it would kick off three weekly return flights between Sydney and London, and three weekly return flights between Sydney and Los Angeles from 14 November.
“The early reopening of Australia’s international borders will mean so much to so many people, and it’s made possible by the amazing ramp-up of the vaccine rollout,” said Qantas CEO Alan Joyce.
“We’d already sold out some of our international flights for December and seen strong demand on flights to and from London and Los Angeles, so we’re confident there will be a lot of interest in these earlier services.
Joyce also joined AFTA and IATA in calling for eased quarantine restrictions.
“Beyond the initial rush, the ongoing demand for international flights will hinge largely on what the quarantine requirements are,” he said.
“The shift to seven day home quarantine for fully-vaccinated Australians with a negative test is a great step towards reducing this closer to what is becoming standard in many countries overseas, which is a test and release program.”
In other good news, G Adventures is celebrating the resumption of international travel by extending up to 20 per cent off a wide range of its most popular Classic tours.
Later this month, G Adventures will also celebrate having run 1,000 tours safely and successfully since September 2020 – more tours than any other operator since the onset of the global pandemic – supporting employment and boosting the local economies in countries dependent on tourism such as Costa Rica, Ecuador, Egypt, Kenya, Morocco and Peru.
Featured image source: iStock/ArtMarie
Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au
afta australian federation of travel agents clia cruise lines international association g adventures iata International Air Transportation Association Joel Katz margy osmond Michael Kaine Philip Goh qantas scott morrison The Transport Workers Union tom manwaring tourism and transport forum ttfLatest News
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
TV chef Manu Feildel tries his hand at Bistro Red Lion
Who says Sydney’s dining scene is on the ropes. Despite promising to “never, ever” open a restaurant again, TV chef Manu Feildel is now on pans at a 196-year-old pub in Sydney’s inner west. Owned by the Laundy family, the Red Lion pub will soon be home to Bistro Red Lion by Manu which will […]
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
Bonza creditors vote to liquidate embattled low-cost carrier
Bonza’s creditors have officially moved to call time on the embattled carrier with the result of a vote today seeing the business liquidated. Administrators Hall Chadwick had hoped to either sell Bonza or find a backer to come in with a Deed of Company Arrangement, though no offers materialised in time for today’s creditor meeting, […]
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
Scoot winter sale on economy and ScootPlus tickets
Aussies looking for their next international adventure can take advantage of Scoot’s Winter sale deals on their Economy and ScootPlus tickets to popular destinations. They are offering discounted economy flights to a range of favourite destinations, including: Athens (from $405 SYD/ $395 MEL/ $399 PER) Osaka (from $335 SYD/$325 MEL/$319 PER) Koh Samui (from $330 […]
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
Sydney International boat show delivers four days of family fun
Families looking forward to a winter weekend adventure can take to the Sydney International Boat Show for an assortment of boating, sailing, and marine experiences from 1 to 4 August. Returning for its 55th year, the show is the highlight of the international boating events calendar and a popular day for the entire family. Guests […]
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
Aqua Expeditions partners with the Flight Centre Travel Group as preferred supplier
Luxury small-ship cruise line, Aqua Expeditions, has announced a new partnership with the Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG), becoming a preferred supplier of the travel agency network. The partnership will allow guests to book Aqua Expeditions’ luxury cruises through FCTG’s network of travel agencies including their flagship brand as well as their luxury-focused brands including […]
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
DoubleTree by Hilton Hobart set to open in the second half of 2024
DoubleTree by Hilton Hobart is set to open in the second half of 2024 within walking distance to the CBD, waterfront and Salamanca Place. The new hotel promises to be a standout addition to the city’s hospitality landscape. The new DoubleTree by Hilton Hobart, together with Fragrance Group Limited, will offer guests a blend of […]
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
Discover Travel Group’s Gill Gaspar on being a destination expert: Travel Weekly TV
Gill also told us about his involvement with the Portuguese food festival here in Sydney... We're ready for lunch!
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
Journey Beyond unveils new Broome experience
This travel trend will have you clutching your pearls for all of the right reasons!
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
Singapore’s Changi Airport launches campaign to attract ANZ visitors
That new lounge at Brisvegas airport doesn't look so good after watching Changi's latest promo reel.
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
Tahiti Tourisme’s latest ad campaign, ‘Feel What We Feel Here’ focuses on local life
If everyday life in Tahiti means sitting by a pool, an occasional exertion to the bar or restaurant meal, we are there.
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
Sydney CBD’s Monopole restaurant resurges as a classic French diner
Don't read this before lunch. It is going to make your egg and cress sandwich look really really sad.
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
What on earth is ‘rawdogging’? The unlikely travel trend taking over social media
We promise that you won't need to delete your browsing history after reading this news story.
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
Virgin poaches Qantas frequent flyer after viral post slams the Flying Kangaroo for complacency
Qantas appears to have been caught with its customer service pants down and competitors are making the most of it.
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
Emirates offers complimentary stay at 5-Star JW Marriott in Dubai for stopover travellers
If you can wrangle a couple extra days of leave, this one is a no brainer!
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
Think travelling alone makes you lonely? Think again – 50% of Aussies are planning solo trips
Travelling alone to escape other Aussies? Now you'll probably bump into them on your travels.
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
Celestyal expands in the Arabian Gulf with a second ship from 2025
Celestyal has announced new programs for 2025, 2026 and early 2027 including an expansion into the Arabian Gulf during the winter season which will see both ships cruising year-round for the first time. The cruise line’s newest ship, Celestyal Discovery, will chase the sun to the Arabian Gulf for its first winter season from 2025, […]
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
ENVI Sisini opens in Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park
When they say ENVI Lodges, we know they mean envy. Grrr, says our inner lion.
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
Bad exchange rate leads to a drop in Aussies travelling to the US
Rumour has it that King Kong didn't actually WANT to climb The Empire State Building. He just couldn't afford the lifts.
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
Vietnam’s Alma Resort welcomes executive chef Alan Rion
Alan Rion, a seasoned chef with three decades’ experience working for some of the world’s leading restaurants and hotels in Asia, Europe, Australia, the Middle East, United States and Canada has been named Alma Resort’s executive chef. French national Rion has joined the 30-hectare resort overlooking Long Beach on Vietnam’s scenic Cam Ranh peninsula to […]
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
Strasbourg interest up 210% as Aussies favour French hotspots ahead of Olympic, Paralympic summer reveal
Shocked to learn Aussies will be enjoying the things our athlete's generally avoid. Copious amounts of cheese and wine!
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
Travel agents to benefit with bookings to Dubai
Travel agents and vouchers go together like, urm, well, they just go.
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
Savour The Tweed is Australia’s newest premier food and drink event
Fancy eating and drinking your way through Northern NSW? Boy do we have a story for you!
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
Holidaying families drop a rung in bid to ease cost of living pressures
Prevailing financial stress and work demands mean people are looking for more cost-effective, flexible holiday options these school holidays, according to research conducted on behalf of BIG4 Holiday Parks. The research found that 76 per cent of Australians cite financial constraints as the primary limitation currently preventing them from travelling. More than half (54 per […]
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
Passenger rescued from overhead baggage compartment after severe turbulence shakes Air Europa flight
Another gentle reminder that if you're flying any time soon, keep your seatbelt on!
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
Uber Yacht is a new boat service offered in six European hotspots
Who needs a gondola when you can cruise the canals on a vintage Italian timber Riva. Pronto!
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
Chief executive officer Dave Baswal to depart Ovolo Hotels
Ovolo hotels have announced the departure of chief executive officer Dave Baswal from his role, effective from the end of September. Baswal first joined the company in 2016, initially as director of finance & operations Australia, progressing through roles including COO and CFO, managing director, and ultimately assuming the CEO position in 2022. During his […]
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
Amadeus introduces AI technology to modernise hotel business
If you thought Amadeus wasn't already 'techy' enough, it's now gone and done the whole AI thing.
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
SA’s almost-complete Monarto Safari Park on the market for $50m
The nearly finished luxury hotel and glamping resort inside Monarto Safari Park in South Australia has been put up for sale Jayco caravan founder Gerry Ryan with an asking price of $50 million-plus. The Australian Financial Review reports Ryan acquired the 65.66ha site, in the Murraylands region 70km from Adelaide, from Zoos South Australia in […]
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
Avis and South African Airways announce partnership after relaunch of flights to Perth
Car rental company Avis has announced a partnership with South African Airways (SAA) following the relaunch of its Perth to Johannesburg route after a four-year hiatus. “Avis is proud to partner with SAA to provide an integrated travel experience that ensures our customers receive the highest standard of service both in the air, and on […]
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
Novotel and ibis Styles Melbourne Airport officially open
Yep, we've asked before. Double-glazing installed. Not sure about the complementary earplugs though.
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
Crystal signs memorandum of agreement with Fincantieri
Luxury cruise experience leader, Crystal, has signed a Memorandum of Agreement with Fincantieri to construct two new, groundbreaking ships. The planned 690-passenger (based on double occupancy), 61,800-gross tonne ship will feature a host of amenities and innovative designs that ensure unparalleled comfort and indulgence for guests. Ship designs will be led by architectural firms, Studio […]
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
New Zealand and Japan named top destinations for Aussie nomads
No word yet as to whether Japan and New Zealand have rated Aussies as their favourite guests.
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
Windstar Cruises’ 17-night Tahiti Treasures and Marquesas Marvels package
Tahiti looks nice! James, Tahiti! For those of you old enough to remember the ad and rich enough to have a private jet.
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
From authority to authenticity: why 39% of Aussies are finding travel brands “too generic”
There is a lot of talk on authenticity, but can any of us agree on what it actually means?
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
Seabourn Pursuit’s historic naming ceremony with Indigenous godparents at Ngula Jar Island
Given a culture tens of thousands of years old, we at Travel Weekly say this Indig deal is well overdue.
![](https://www.travelweekly.com.au/wp-content/themes/bandtv1/img/default.png)
Qantas begins $20m ‘ghost flight’ pay out following ACCC agreement
Hudson is still cleaning up Joyce's mess... Well, she may have had something to do with it herself, actually.