The Australian Federation of Travel Agents (AFTA) is remaining upbeat about the prospect of financial support for travel agents, travel wholesalers and tour operators, with negotiations with federal, state and territory governments continuing.
Travel Weekly understands AFTA chief executive Darren Rudd had a meeting with the Prime Minister’s office yesterday afternoon in the wake of the wake of the big Federal Budget reveal.
“We know everyone is distressed, disappointed and frustrated at the lack of specific measures in the Federal Budget, but we need to remain constructive, strategic and focussed in our lobbying,” he said.
“The door is still open for support to address our very specific needs and we are in detailed, data-driven dialogue with the federal government.
“There were close to 600 submissions made to government in the pre-Budget process. Ours is one of only a very few which the government is still considering.”
Rudd credited AFTA’s National Mobilisation Campaign for successfully fuelling this awareness.
“In addition to a number of parliamentarians calling for tailored support in Parliament, four federal politicians raised our plight during the joint coalition party room, making it the most-discussed topic at the meeting,” he said.
“Government at all levels is aware of the acute plight of members. If you haven’t already contacted your local member of parliament, now is the time.
“If you have, please get back in touch and reinforce the need for them to continue to champion specific support where it is needed most.”
