With thanks to Altura Travel Group for this article 

In the travel industry, who you partner with is everything. For the Australian and New Zealand travel trade, finding a truly reliable DMC can be a challenge. My commitment at Altura Travel Group is simple: to connect you with only the most trustworthy, professional, and values-driven Destination Management Companies (DMCs) around the world. Every partner I recommend undergoes a comprehensive and multi-layered vetting process, designed not only to reassure you but also to save valuable time. This is more than due diligence; it’s about building partnerships rooted in trust, transparency, and shared values.

A Rigorous Vetting Framework

Before partnering with Altura Travel Group, every DMC must meet an extensive list of essential criteria. These requirements ensure that each partner operates at the highest possible standard of safety, service, and sustainability. Here’s a look at how we do it:

1. Operational & Legal Compliance:Every DMC must provide proof of licensing, up-to-date insurances, trade references, and industry memberships. I look at their years in operation and seek confirmation from trade references who can vouch for their reliability.
2. Service Delivery & Quality Assurance:The AU/NZ market has clear expectations for quality and quick turnaround times. That’s why I require assurances on turnaround times for itineraries and amendments (24–48 hours), comprehensive day-by-day detail, and robust processes for customisation. Drivers and guides are a cornerstone of service delivery, so I review the DMC's process for hiring, qualifications, ongoing training, and ability to remain contactable in remote regions. Accommodation, food safety, and vehicle standards are also required.
3. Emergency, Risk & Safety Management:Safety is non-negotiable. Each partner must demonstrate detailed emergency procedures, a full risk management plan, and confirm regular first aid training and certifications for staff on the ground.
4. Business & Communication Protocols:Clear communication is the backbone of successful operations. I require a dedicated AU/NZ market contact, a defined escalation process, and preferred communication channels for both day-to-day and urgent matters. Standard operating procedures for booking, payment, and cancellations must also be in place.
5. Financial & Pricing Transparency:Payment methods, currencies, and any applicable merchant fees must be clearly outlined upfront.
6. Responsible Tourism:Ethical alignment is paramount. I only work with partners who demonstrate a clear commitment to sustainability, community benefit, environmental protection, animal welfare, and child safety.
7. Client Feedback: Each must also have robust systems for complaint handling, client feedback, and performance tracking.

Beyond the Checklist

While documentation is vital, I conduct personal reference checks with multiple operators and assess each DMC’s industry reputation. A strong partner must not only meet the standards on paper but also demonstrate reliability, integrity, and empathy in practice.

Why It Matters

By holding every partner accountable to these exacting standards, Altura Travel Group ensures that we have confidence in every recommendation we make to the Australian and New Zealand travel trade. Our approach reduces your workload and guarantees that the partners I recommend are safe, professional, and truly exceptional at what they do.

alturatravelgroup.com