Support appears to be gaining momentum against Australia Post from being granted an exemption from the Travel Compensation Fund with a motion passed in the Tasmanian Parliament last week.

Tasmania’s Deputy Leader of the opposition, Will Hodgman MHA, has called upon the State Government not to grant the exemption to Australia Post which is looking to start selling Jetstar tickets from its offices, citing that State licensing laws require every travel agency issuing airline tickets to be licensed and a member of the TCF. 

He said agencies are required to pay a joining fee of $8000, plus the cost of an annual independent audit, annual fees, submission of accounts and other administrative imposts, and that the possible exemption would create an unfair and uncompetitive environment for other licensed travel agents. 

Mr Hodgman has called upon the State Government to ensure that a level playing field and proper competitive environment is maintained, and that any new entrant to the industry, including Australia Post, will be required to meet all of the licensing and TCF requirements.