The Liberal-National Government will provide a one-off payment to assist travel agents in recognition of difficult trading circumstances and travel restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Federal Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry said there is a significant number of travel agents all over Australia who face challenging circumstances, including having to refund existing travel bookings while simultaneously operating their business in a changing travel environment.
“Most travel agents are refunding last year’s income while continuing to work with no additional income,” Ms Landry said.
“This one-off payment recognises that travel agents, regardless of size, are operating in a very tough set of circumstances outside of their control.
“I have been in regular contact with affected travel agents in Capricornia since travel restrictions were put in place earlier in the year and I’m glad the Federal Government will assist them, on top of the significant economic support the Government has already assisted the tourism and travel industry,” Ms Landry said.
Under the $128 million scheme, eligible travel agents with a turnover of between $50,000 and $20 million a year will be able to apply for the one off payment.
Payments will be scaled, with a minimum payment of $1500 for a business with a turnover of $50 000 up to a maximum payment of $100,000 for a business with a turnover of $20 million.
