AFTA welcomes JobKeeper extension

THE Australian Federation of Travel Agents (AFTA) welcomed the news that JobKeeper payments will be extended for millions of stood-down workers.

The Federal Government announced that the scheme would continue beyond September for an additional six months at a new rate of $1,200 a fortnight.

AFTA CEO Darren Rudd said the decision was a victory for the travel and tourism industry which lobbied the government vigorously for the six-month extension.

“COVID-19 hit travel and tourism operators earlier than other industries and will continue to impact for longer so ongoing support is vital. Government is listening to us and this is a new win which has been achieved through collaborative and constructive interaction at all levels of government and across the political spectrum,” Mr Rudd said. 

“Keeping the scheme going – albeit at a slightly lower rate and with tighter eligibility tests – provides a lifeline to viable businesses and our members. These are businesses that might otherwise have closed their doors for good, leaving people without jobs and consumers without support at a time when they need it more than ever.

“We know how tough it is for our member agents and the broader community. For economic survival we now need to turn to reopening of all domestic borders when safe to do so as well as establishing travel bubbles to get Australians travelling again while balancing the health risks.”

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