The Australian Federation of Travel Agents (AFTA) is reassuring travel agents, travel wholesalers and tour operators that its fervent lobbying for financial support, on behalf of the sector, is continuing through intense lobbying and negotiations with the Federal Government and at a State and Territory level.
“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,” said AFTA CEO Darren Rudd.
“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.
“The National Mobilisation Campaign has successfully fuelled 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.
“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.”
