Industry veterans sign on for ATAS Appeals Complaint Committee

David Padman and Melvyn Almeida, along with consumer representatives Philip Field and Jillian Brewer, have been announced as the committee members for the ATAS Appeals Complaint Committee (ACAC).

This means the committee which is led by independent chair Hank Speir, former CEO of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, is running at full capacity after a COVID-forced pause and after last year’s independent review of ATAS.

David Padman and Melvyn Almeida bring a wealth of industry knowledge and experience to the ACAC and will help in reviewing and resolving complaints with impartiality and expertise.

Joining them on the committee are consumer representatives Philip Field and Jillian Brewer whose consumer-focused perspectives and extensive experience will add to the committee.

“We are thrilled to welcome these highly respected individuals to the ATAS Appeals Complaint Committee and thank them in advance for their time and contribution. Their appointments reinforce our commitment to transparency and excellence in the travel industry,” AFTA CEO Dean Long said.

AFTA CEO Dean Long

“The ACAC’s formation is an essential step in upholding the integrity of the ATAS accreditation scheme and further enhancing industry standards. By including industry stalwarts and consumer representatives, AFTA ensures that the committee has a comprehensive understanding of both industry-specific nuances and consumer perspectives.

“These appointments to the ACAC highlight our commitment to maintaining a fair and robust complaint resolution process. Their collective expertise and dedication will strengthen the credibility and transparency of the ATAS accreditation scheme.”

The ACAC is a partnership with the Consumer Federation Australia which jointly selects the Chair of the ACAC with AFTA and appoints the consumer representatives.

All ATAS members benefit from access to complaint resolution support including where necessary via the ACAC. All ATAS members are benchmarked against strict criteria as part of a rigorous application process covering everything including an audit of submitted financial documentation through to monitoring of consumer complaints and the dispute resolution process.

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ACAC ATAS Appeals Complaint Committee Hank Speir