Matthew Mason-Cox med rel: Australian travellers urged to pack some peace of mind

NSW Fair Trading Minister, Matthew Mason-Cox, today backed a new national travel campaign informing consumers on steps they can take to protect their next travel or accommodation booking.

“NSW is working with its state counterparts to promote the ‘Pack Some Peace of Mind’ campaign, an initiative of Australia’s consumer protection agencies aimed at ensuring consumers protect their travel purchases,” Mr Mason-Cox said.

“The Travel Agents Act regulated the industry in the late 1980s when there was virtually no alternative but to pay for travel using a travel agent.

“The way Australians purchase many things, including travel, has evolved considerably during the past 30 years.

“Since most consumers purchase travel and accommodation online and through credit cards, the travel agent’s license and Travel Compensation Fund have become redundant, with protections under the Australian Consumer Law being far more relevant to travel purchases.’’

As of the 1 July, travel agents in Australia are no longer required to hold a license or be members of the Travel Compensation Fund.

“Despite these changes, consumers will still be protected under the Australian Consumer Law and other measures, whether they book through a travel agent, online or direct with a provider,’’ said Mr Mason-Cox.

“In addition to the Australian Consumer law protections, there are some basic steps consumers can take to protect their purchases.

“Look at reviews, get onto social media and ask friends for their recommendations.

“If you are booking with a travel agent, check that they are accredited through the ATAS AFTA Travel Accreditation Scheme. “Any business you book with, either in person or online, should have clearly stated refund and complaint handling policies.”

Consumers can also protect themselves by choosing how they pay for their travel.

“You are entitled to your money back, if you buy something that does not meet the consumer guarantees set in the Australian Consumer Law,’’ said Mr Mason-Cox.

“If you don’t get what you paid for, you can contact your credit card provider to arrange a charge back. “Chargebacks may be available on purchases made with credit cards or with Mastercard or Visa debit cards when ‘credit’ is selected.

“Always take out comprehensive travel insurance when travelling, and check what circumstances and activities are not covered by your policies.’’