Proud to be ATAS Accredited

The Importance of Booking with an ATAS Accredited Travel Agent

Back on the 8th of October, 2014, Western Australia’s licensing system for travel agents ceased, in line with the national deregulation of the travel industry.  This was a move that was not widely welcomed by then licensed travel agents, such as ourselves, as it left the travel customer in a vulnerable position, not knowing whether they were dealing with a professional, reputable operator.

Customers of travel providers are protected by Australian Consumer Law, where travel services must be as described or advertised and an agent must operate with an acceptable level of skill.  Notwithstanding this protection, there are countless operators out there who are ready to fleece you of your hard-earned money, particularly in the online booking environment.

Online travel booking continues to grow and the key is to be aware of what to look and look out for in a travel provider and this is where, in Australia, ATAS accreditation comes into play.

We are a long-standing, proud member of the Australian Federation of Travel Agents (AFTA) and, since 2014, accredited under their AFTA Travel Agents Accreditation Scheme (ATAS).  This means that Motive Travel is recognised as a trusted, reputable and professional travel agency.

When booking travel in Australia, alway look for the ATAS symbol

ATAS Travel Accredited Logo

Download your ATAS flyer HERE or read through the rest of this post for the information contained in the flyer!

ATAS Consumer Flyer

WHAT IS ATAS?

ATAS or the AFTA Travel Accreditation Scheme is a national scheme which certifies Australian travel agents. It is administered by the industry association, the Australian Federation of Travel Agents (AFTA).

HOW DO AGENTS BECOME ACCREDITED?

Agents must meet a set of strict criteria and professional standards in order to become accredited. Every year an agent must renew their accreditation and provide updated business compliance details.

HOW DOES ATAS BENEFIT ME?

ATAS is the stamp of approval that symbolises the Australian travel industry’s highest level of customer service, training, ethics and professionalism. By using a travel agent that bears the ATAS symbol you can be sure that you are booking through the best in the industry.

HOW DOES ATAS PROTECT ME?

ATAS protects you by acting as a clear indicator of quality and reliability. Agents with ATAS accreditation meet high quality standards of business practices, training and professionalism.  This means you can book your travel knowing you’re in the safe hands of a trusted and reputable travel agent.

COMPLIANT BUSINESS GUARANTEE

ATAS accredited businesses meet standards and criteria set by the industry association AFTA. The criteria includes assessment of finances, ensures minimum levels of training in product and destination knowledge, has a complaint resolution policy, and complies with the scheme’s Code of Conduct, and Australian Consumer Law.

 

TOP 10 REASONS TO BOOK WITH AN ATAS ACCREDITED TRAVEL AGENT

1. PEACE OF MIND

ATAS travel agents have met strict standards and criteria in order to become nationally accredited.  Their accreditation means they are the best in the industry, credible, well trained and  professional businesses. This means you can book your travel knowing you’re in the safe hands of a trusted and reputable travel agent.

2. TRAINED EXPERTS

Agents are trained destination and product experts and know how to sort through the myriad of travel information available. Their industry knowledge and network means they have access to the best product suppliers and first-to-market offers to ensure you get access to the best quality travel experiences.

3. TIME SAVING

An agent has a world of travel information at their fingertips, saving you countless hours of online searching and frustration.

4. CONVENIENCE

Travel agents are a ‘one-stop shop’ who can handle every aspect of your travel – from booking airline tickets, ground transfers, accommodation tours and activities to travel insurance.

5. PRODUCT THAT SUITS

Agents have access to great deals and will find the best products for your unique travel needs.  They have access to technology and systems that consumers simply don’t have access to by going direct to suppliers.

6. PROFESSIONAL ADVICE

Your agent ensures you get where you want to go, when you want, and is there to provide timely, insightful, professional guidance along the way. Their experience counts!

7. A PERSONAL TOUCH

Travel agents offer a personal touch that is invaluable. From an extra pair of eyes to ensure the accuracy of your booking details, to advice with a visa application, assistance with travel documentation and valuable travel tips.

8. UNBIASED RECOMMENDATIONS

Travel agents work for their clients, not for a travel supplier. Let your agent do the work for you – they’ll filter your options and provide only the recommendations that make the most sense for you.

9. TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL

A perfectly planned trip made just for you is priceless! A professional travel agent is trained to make your entire experience – from start to end – hassle-free. As your trusted adviser, not only do they tailor the itinerary to suit your needs they can guide you to the right restaurant, museum, or off-the-beaten-track excursion – that’s perfect for you.

10. CUSTOMER ADVOCACY

If you experience a problem while travelling, your agent acts on your behalf as your personal travel advocate and is there to rectify any travel related issues you may encounter.


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