Australian Competition and Consumer Commission

A new report released by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has revealed that more than 1/4 of COVID-19 complaints from the public were related to travel agencies and airlines. Travel saw a nearly 500% increase in gripes for the period from 1 January to 31 October 2020, with a whopping 24,210 cases raised, up from 4,052 in 2019.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has applauded a decision by Etihad Airways to offer refunds to consumers who bought tickets with the airline in Australia which were subsequently cancelled due to the pandemic.

Virgin Australia has scratched a recently proposed partnership with other Australian-based airlines, telling the competition regulator it was unlikely to assist it or its customers due to changed market conditions.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) this week issued advice for consumers and businesses on the rights and obligations available to Australians if travel services, flights and events are cancelled as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. The advice also provides guidelines if people decide to cancel their travel plans.