ATIA Accredited members will benefit from broader recognition of industry qualifications and more proportionate insurance requirements following reforms introduced under the 2025 ATAS Charter Review.
Now in effect, the changes aim to reduce unnecessary compliance costs, expand workforce pathways and better align accreditation settings with modern travel business models while maintaining the strong consumer protections underpinning the scheme.
One of the key updates replaces the previous requirement for 50 percent of consumer-facing staff to hold a Certificate III qualification. Under the new Recognised Industry Training framework, staff can now meet the requirement through a wider range of qualifications, certifications or recognised industry experience.
Prior learning, including at least two years of frontline travel selling experience, can now be considered as part of the recognised qualifications framework. According to ATIA, this approach offers greater flexibility for recruitment while recognising specialist skills and supporting the retention of experienced industry professionals.
Insurance requirements have also been refined to better reflect the operational risk profile of travel businesses. While Public Liability and Professional Indemnity insurance remain encouraged, Public Liability will no longer be mandatory for businesses operating entirely online without in-person interaction. In addition, tour operators will not need separate Professional Indemnity cover where Public Liability policies already include Errors and Omissions protection.
ATIA CEO Dean Long said the reforms reflect the changing nature of the travel industry.
“We’re interested in standards that actually reflect how modern travel businesses operate. By broadening recognised qualifications we are acknowledging that experience and specialist skills are critical to the industry. ATIA Accredited continues to evolve to deliver real commercial value for members while maintaining strong confidence for travellers,” Long said.
The reforms follow an independent review of the ATAS Charter and Code of Conduct, with the ATIA Board accepting the majority of recommendations aimed at strengthening governance and long-term sustainability.
