The Australian Travel Industry Association has unveiled the inaugural members of its Independent Travel Agents Association (ITAA), marking the next step in formalising a national voice for independent advisors.
Twelve travel professionals from across Australia have been appointed to the committee, spanning home-based agencies, boutique independents, regional retailers and specialist operators. The group will feed directly into ATIA’s policy, advocacy and strategic direction.
The reveal comes after broader industry discussion around representation, sparked in September last year by Belle Goldie, who questioned whether the trade needed a dedicated, agent-only body to sit alongside existing structures.
Her comments prompted debate across the industry, with some backing the idea of a standalone body, while others warned that multiple organisations could risk fragmenting the industry’s voice.
A structured voice for independents
ATIA said ITAA has been two years in the making under its A30 strategic plan, which committed to ensuring every segment of the industry has structured representation.
The committee will meet at least twice a year, publish a communique within 21 days of each meeting and report annually against agreed KPIs. Members are appointed for two-year terms, with staggered appointments designed to ensure continuity.
ATIA CEO Dean Long said the inaugural group would strengthen the association’s ability to represent the independent sector.
“We launched ITAA to make sure that every sector of the industry has representation and a voice in the direction of the association. Announcing the inaugural membership today is a proud moment,” he said.
“These professionals represent the full breadth of the independent sector… They bring front-line experience that no submission or survey can replace.”
The inaugural members
The ITAA’s first committee includes:
Robyn Sinfield, Home Travel Company (Tas)
Julia van Huisstede, italktravel & Cruise The Junction (NSW)
Brian Conway, Bonaventure Travel (WA)
Felicity Dascomb, Helloworld Pursers Travel Group (Qld)
Peta Godfrey, Travel Focus Group (NSW)
Emma Whiting, Emma Whiting Travel (Vic)
Sonia Jones, Sonia Jones Travel (Qld)
Paul Pearman, Helloworld Travel Gisborne (Vic)
Sandy Chen, Suncatcher Holidays
Mandi Forrester-Jones, Viva Travel / Viva Destination Weddings
Mario Paez, Planetdwellers
Nicole King, Holiday and Cruise Centre (Vic)
While ITAA sits within ATIA rather than operating as a standalone body, its formation – and now the appointment of its inaugural members – signals a move to strengthen independent agent representation within the existing industry framework.
