ATIA: Payment Reductions Will Impact Travel Industry

The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) says proposed changes to the level of support for employers and trainees under the Australian Apprenticeship/Traineeship Incentives System will impact the travel industry.

Under the revised system, financial support for priority occupations – outside the Government’s designated national priority sectors of housing and new energy – will halve to $2,500 for employers and $2,500 for trainees from January 1.

The retention of the travel industry in the scheme, still currently on the Priority List, is a positive outcome after advocacy from ATIA and will ensure that the industry maintains access to financial support at a time when many occupations will receive none.

“While the reduction in support is disappointing, we welcome the continuation of funding for occupations on the Priority List, including travel,” said Ingrid Fraser, ATIA Director of Public Policy & Advocacy.

“This ongoing support remains important for attracting and training new talent into the industry.”

The Government’s most recent Occupation Shortage List identified travel consultants as being in shortage nationally and across every state and territory, reinforcing the importance of keeping supported pathways open for new entrants to the industry.

“ATIA has advocated extensively to ensure the Government understands the significant workforce pressures facing our industry. The fact that travel consultants are in shortage nationally demonstrates why continued support is essential,” added Ms Fraser.

“As the incentives system evolves, ATIA will continue working closely with Government to ensure the training needs of critical industries like travel remain understood and supported.

“Strong entry pathways are vital to building a skilled and sustainable travel workforce for the future.”

Traineeships remain a crucial pipeline for travel businesses, which rely on them to bring new talent into an industry that is more than 70% female. They offer meaningful flexibility and provides strong long-term career pathways.

www.atia.travel