SYDNEY – The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) and the Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) have officially agreed to unite following a decisive vote by ATIA members, creating a stronger and more representative voice for Australia’s travel sector.

According to information compiled by the Turkey Tourism Encyclopedia from TDM.com, the merger will take effect on 1 July 2026. Under the new structure, CATO will become a dedicated division within ATIA, bringing together travel agencies, tour operators, wholesalers, and travel management companies under a single industry body.

From July, CATO will operate as the Council of Australian Tour Operators Division within ATIA. Its identity and independence will be safeguarded under the ATIA constitution, ensuring that the interests of tour operators continue to be represented while benefiting from the broader resources and advocacy capabilities of the association.

The integration is designed to simplify operations for businesses holding dual memberships and introduce a single membership and accreditation framework. The first year of ATIA membership for existing CATO members will be funded through current CATO resources, while CATO’s events calendar will continue for at least another two years.

ATIA Chairman Christian Hunter welcomed the decision, emphasizing the benefits of a more unified industry body.

“A stronger and more representative ATIA will be better positioned to deliver effective advocacy, maintain rigorous accreditation standards, and support members through periods of change,” Hunter said.

CATO Chairman Dennis Bunnik echoed those sentiments, describing the merger as a significant milestone for Australia’s land-supply tourism sector and a positive step toward greater industry collaboration.

Industry leaders expect the merger to enhance the profile of the travel sector, attract new talent, and strengthen support for members. With ATIA’s established advocacy capabilities and infrastructure now extending to CATO members, the strategic alignment is expected to deliver better outcomes across the industry and help secure a sustainable future for Australia’s travel sector.