Travel Agent Finder (TAF) has partnered with the Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) Touring Academy, to bring a dedicated Touring Specialist badge to its Specialist Badges program and on certified agent profiles.
The CATO Touring Academy is an industry-first online certification designed to support retail travel agents and newcomers in becoming land-based touring specialists. Developed by CATO, the peak body representing Australian-based tour operators, the program empowers agents with the knowledge and confidence to thrive in today’s competitive touring market.
TAF members who complete the CATO Touring Academy certification can now apply to display their verified Touring Specialist badge on their profile, providing an added layer of credibility and trust for travellers seeking expert advice on holidays including touring and land-based components.
“We’re thrilled to partner with CATO’s Touring Academy,” Travel Agent Finder & Travel Trade Connect founder, Anna Shannon, said. “This initiative closely aligns with our mission of helping agents market their niche skills and expertise to stand out to travellers. The new Touring Specialist badge will provide a valuable extra trust signal to travellers searching for a touring specialist agent on Travel Agent Finder.”
TAF invites agent members who specialise in touring to complete the CATO Touring Academy certification and request their badge verification through their member dashboard.
“By partnering with Travel Agent Finder, we’re enabling certified agents to visibly showcase their dedication to excellence in land-based touring,” CATO managing director, Brett Jardine, said. “Completing the CATO Touring Academy’s extensive curriculum sets these professionals apart as trusted specialists.”
