Government launches $3m ad campaign following sweeping changes to travel industry

The government has launched a $3 million radio, print and digital advertising campaign as it seeks to inform the public of changes to the way Australia’s travel industry is regulated.

The sweeping reforms, which have seen the government put regulation in the hands of the industry, came into effect on July 1 and saw the closing of the Travel Compensation Fund (TCF), a quasi-government body which refunded consumers in the event of their travel agent going out of business.

Holidaymakers will now rely on Australian Consumer Law (ACL) and newly created insurance policies to protect their money, while an industry-led voluntary travel agent accreditation scheme – ATAS – has been launched with the aim of building a network of quality travel retailers. Flight Centre is among the members.

The Australia Federation of Travel Agents (AFTA) has already launched a video promoting the use of ATAS travel agents which screened in cinemas, online and through social channels.