SINGAPORE, 26 JUNE 2023: Australian Federation of Travel Agents has signalled the green light to a new Constitution.

A comprehensive “yes” vote from 100% of the voting membership adopted the new Constitution at the 46th Annual General Meeting held in Sydney last week.

Richard Taylor, Dean Long with Directors James Kavanagh, Shelley Beasley, Chair Tom Manwaring, Roy Merricks, Christian Hunter, Danielle Russom, David Greenland (Directors attending in Sydney).

Meanwhile, the Association received six eligible nominations for AFTA Director. Those formally re-elected to the Board are:

Christian Hunter
Graham Turner
Laura Ruffles
Danielle Russom
Shelley Beasley
Cinzia Burnes

Tom Manwaring was re-elected chair, and Christian Hunter and Graham Turner as vice chair.

AFTA chair Tom Manwaring commented on AGM outcomes: “It’s been a busy year hallmarked by extensive consultation across AFTA, the Travel Sector and more widely as we reshape the organisation to deliver for all members.”

“One of the cornerstone commitments that shape all our decisions is a focus on fairness, which is embedded in our new Constitution. The reforms are many, including at voting level with Member votes now aligned in a more balanced and fairer structure.”

“The adoption of the new Constitution is one of the most significant milestones in this organisation’s existence and cements the Board’s focus on renewal and growth over the past 12 months.”

The Australian Federation of Travel Agents (AFTA), founded in 1957, represents the majority of travel agents and businesses in Australia and includes all major travel agency groups.