We know the entire travel industry is majorly doing it tough, but today we wanted to spare a thought for independent travel agents after we received an email from one agent who has already lost $20,000 in the current climate.
Independent agent and mum, Danni Duncan, dropped us a line to share some perspective on the reality of working as an independent agent right now.
“I am a mum of an 18-month-old and work for myself from home with this as my main source of income,” she said.
“I do not take home a salary like a company like Flight Centre or Helloworld which means if I’m not working I don’t get paid”.
In the last two weeks, she has lost approximately $20,000 worth of income from people deciding not to go ahead with their holidays.
“If the airline or hotel offers a full refund I have to honour that for my clients,” she said.
“I can charge a small cancellation fee but not enough to recoup what I’m losing”.
“My income next month will be a negative amount – as I need to pay back suppliers and I have a mortgage, bills, childcare fees, general living expenses to pay for”.
She said that while she appreciates it’s a tough time for many, she said independent agents will be among some of the worst affected.
Previously she has loved working for herself because it has given her the time to spend time with her young daughter and the ability to offer her clients a more tailored and personalised service.
Right now she is unsure what her future holds as self employees are not getting anything from the stimulus package the government is offering.
“This is going affect a lot of people who have taken the plunge to work for themselves,” she said.
“I have no doubt when all this is over people will be travelling again – but in the meantime – the impact is huge”.
Got a similar experience or initiative to share too? Email us at editor@karryon.com.au with your story.
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