Tourism Australia has launched the revamped version of its Aussie Specialist Programme (ASP) in India. The programme aims to equip Indian travel agents with distinguished skill sets and knowledge to effectively promote and sell Australia as a preferred holiday destination among Indian travel enthusiasts.
Commenting on the launch, Nishant Kashikar, country manager, Tourism Australia said, “Over the years, our Indian travel partners have been a driving force for the increasing arrivals to Australia. We understand that travel agents need continued flow of information and knowledge about the country’s diverse tourism offerings for them to effectively create incredible itineraries for Indian travellers. The Aussie Specialist Programme thereby aims to make the travel agents an authority on Australia’s tourism attractions, thus facilitating them to effectively address the discerning demands of the evolving Indian traveller segments.”
Basis an extensive review undertaken with travel agents, the online training programme includes a new digital platform as well as training resources which will be shared by Tourism Australia and all eight of its state and territory tourism partners. The three phase interactive and engaging programme will highlight the unique and varied tourism offerings available in Australia, thereby making it a one-stop-platform for all travel partners.
Kashikar added, “The Aussie Specialist Programme is recognised as one of the world’s leading destination training programmes for the past 26 years. We are confident that the revamped version of the Aussie Specialist Programme will further help Indian travel agents to sell Australia as a destination of choice to end consumers and consequently help us achieve our 2020 Tourism targets. With a record increase in tourist arrivals from India, Tourism Australia aims to further build on robust trade relationships and advanced training programs for the trade fraternity. Currently, Tourism Australia has close to 2,100 Aussie Specialists in India, and we expect the figure to cross 3,000 by June 2016.”
The revamped version will consist of interactive training modules, itinerary suggestions, factsheets, latest industry news updates, destination FAQs and an interactive map. The site works across all tablets and mobile devices. In addition to the new website, a team of Aussie Specialist trainers is being recruited to help provide face-to-face training in key markets for frontline travel sellers.