Aussie Specialist Programme is Tourism Australia’s global frontline travel seller training programme with over 40,000 qualified Aussie Specialists around the world currently
Western Australia has received 300 travel agents from around the globe, who arrived in Perth to participate in G’day Australia, an event designed to showcase the country’s premier tourism offerings and provide hands-on training for specialist agents.
G’day Australia 2024, organised by Tourism Australia in collaboration with Tourism Western Australia, runs until October 18, with the nationwide pre and post-event familiarisation programme delivered with support from State and Territory Organisations.
In a press statement, the organisers say that this workshop and familiarisation event offers international agents the chance to connect with over 130 Australian tourism operators and experience the country’s attractions firsthand.
The statement adds that these agents, known as Aussie Specialist Agents, come from 21 countries and are part of a programme designed to educate international travel retailers and wholesalers about Australia as a prime travel destination.
The Aussie Specialist Programme is Tourism Australia’s global frontline travel seller training programme, run in cooperation with Australia’s State and Territory Tourism Organisations.
The statement adds that this programme provides international travel sellers the knowledge and skills to sell Australia more effectively. There are currently over 40,000 qualified Aussie Specialists around the world.
The organisers say that although all agents have undergone online training through the Aussie Specialists Programme, only half have previously visited the country.
Phillipa Harrison
“While the online training is invaluable, nothing compares to being on the ground in Australia. G’day Australia allows agents to gain firsthand experience and forge direct relationships with tourism operators, which will enhance their ability to promote Australia as a top travel destination,” says Phillipa Harrison, Managing Director, Tourism Australia.
“We know from when we have held this event in the past, that 100 pc of the agents have walked away saying they intend to sell more of Australia as a result of attending and they also drive longer stays that disperse travellers around the country. Importantly the agents who have been to G’day Australia are able to encourage customers planning to go to other destinations to choose Australia instead which is vital as we get our visitor economy back on a path of sustainable growth,” Harrison adds.
Steph Underwood
Steph Underwood, Acting Managing Director, Tourism Western Australia, says the G’day Australia forum is a pivotal opportunity to boost the profile of WA and enhance its position in the global tourism market.
“Through this event, we are showcasing our Dream State’s extraordinary tourism experiences and helping build strong, lasting relationships with travel agents from around the world. G’day Australia allows us to showcase our assets in a way that resonates with travel professionals, empowering them with practical destination and product knowledge they need to highlight the unique adventures WA offers to their clients and book diverse and exciting itineraries and packages,” says Underwood.