The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) is marking Global Travel Advisor Day on 7 May 2025 by recognising the essential role accredited travel professionals play in delivering safer, smarter, and more personalised travel experiences for millions of Australians.

As demand for expert travel support grows, ATIA is highlighting the role its accredited members play in navigating complex travel needs. From last-minute flight disruptions to emergency assistance overseas, professional advisors are helping Australians travel with confidence.

In 2024 alone, ATIA members booked more than $30 billion in retail, corporate, and land travel combined. Over 70 per cent of international air travel and 90 per cent of corporate bookings now go through agents—clear evidence that travellers value expert guidance more than ever.

ATIA continues to champion its members through strong advocacy and practical support. It is working to ensure the policy and funding environment supports the growth and success of the industry, which is made up primarily of small businesses and led by a highly skilled, diverse workforce—72 per cent of which is female.

Dean Long, ATIA CEO, said, “We are in the golden age of travel professionals, as more Australians, many of whom were burnt by COVID-travel experiences, turn to expert advisors for complex travel needs and crisis support.”

Adrienne Witteman from Trendsetter Travel & Cruise Centre said demand for travel experts remains strong, saying “Two clients literally walked over broken glass to see me after a car crashed into our agency. That’s how much people value real advice.”

Anna McMurtrie from Wentworth Travel added, “Our clients aren’t just looking for bookings—they’re looking for a trusted partner. When things go wrong, they know we’ll be there with a solution.”

For Max Najar at Axis Travel, travel advisors offer critical safeguards, saying “A visa doesn’t guarantee entry. We see clients turned away due to incorrect documentation. A professional advisor helps avoid costly mistakes.”

Andrew Gillard at Darebin Travel said, “In an era of information overload and travel uncertainty, Australians are turning to trusted experts. Travel advisors are not a thing of the past—we are the future.”

And Chris Watson from Chris Watson Travel noted, “Our clients value having a dedicated professional advocating for them. It’s not just about booking—it’s about peace of mind.”