In our globalised world, millions of employers and employees find themselves travelling for business every year. With travel, naturally comes risks – and with risk, comes the need for a Corporate Travel Risk Management Plan. Each business that asks staff to travel on the businesses behalf has a Duty of Care to that travelling staff member, and included in that Duty of Care is the responsibility to manage Corporate Travel Risks and ensure the staff member is as safe as they can be while travelling. Developing a Corporate Travel Risk Management plan is crucial to the success of your corporate travel long term – so here are our top tips for developing your businesses Travel Risk Management Plan in 2024 and beyond.   Corporate Travel Risk Management Programs Importance of Travel Risk Management Programs Corporate Travel Risk Management Programs are programs in which Travel Arrangers or independent travellers must anticipate, prevent and react to any unplanned risks that travellers may experience on their journey.  The level of Travel Risk that a business has to deal with will depend on the frequency of travel by staff and the areas in which a staff member travels to – however, as soon as a staff member begins travelling, it’s important to develop a Travel Risk Management Program to ensure any issues that arise on the road are dealt with swiftly and painlessly.   Defining a Corporate Travel Risk: With travel naturally comes risks of some level – however it is the job of the Travel Arranger or those organising a staff member’s travel to ensure the staff member is safe while travelling. Travel Risks can be both with and outside of the businesses control, and can include: Safety – Ensuring the location of travel is safe, accommodation and transport are secure and proactively ensuring against any extra safety risks while travelling. Compliance – Ensuring all legal requirements are met in advance. Financial – Proactively anticipating any financial risks that the business may experience and putting preventative measures in to avoid this. Reputation – Insuring against any risks to the company's reputation.   Avoiding Corporate Travel Risk: Best Practices Particularly since the emergence of Covid-19, Corporate Risk Travel Management Programs have become more important than ever. Reviewing your Corporate Risk Travel Management Program regularly is important to ensure new and upcoming risks are covered, and time is no longer used on managing risks that are irrelevant. A handful of best practices when developing and implementing your Travel Risk Management Program are:   Incorporate a Travel Risk Management Program in your Travel Policy It’s best practice for any business that has staff travelling on behalf of the business to have a Travel Policy, and a good way to ensure your Travel Risk Management Program is followed is to include this in your Travel Policy. When you first develop a Travel Policy – Usually with your Pulse Corporate Travel Arranger – you will include information on acceptable accommodation, any specific suppliers to utilise and what can and cannot be reimbursed. The first time you develop your Travel Policy is a great time to develop and incorporate your Travel Risk Management Program, as you can ensure all crucial travel information is kept in one place. It’s recommended that you regularly review your Travel Policy, and including your Travel Risk Management Program within this ensures you’re regularly reviewing your plan for relevant risks, as well. Ensure appropriate risk-management training for staff Sometimes things happen on the road that your staff will be required to deal with, and a big part of ensuring that your Travel Risk Management Program is followed is ensuring that your staff are appropriately educated on it. This training can be two-fold: Firstly, you’ll want to ensure that you proactively provide training for your staff on how to prevent certain risky situations, such as situations of fraud or cultural issues. Secondly, you’ll want to ensure your staff are clearly educated on what policies and processes to follow if something does go wrong that they’re not equipped to deal with, to ensure the business can deal with any other issues swiftly. Review your Travel Insurance Policy In many situations, travel issues can come with a hefty price tag – so it’s important you review your Travel Insurance Policy in tandem to ensure you’re covered financially for as many risks as possible. You can review your Travel Insurance Policy semi-regularly, and at the same time as your Corporate Travel Policy and Travel Risk Management Program. Your Corporate Travel Arranger at Pulse can help provide advice on all of these documents, ensuring your policies and programs are all up-to-date and everything is covered as much as possible. Leverage Smart Travel Software In the age of technology, software can be hugely beneficial in predicting and even preventing things from going wrong. Your Pulse Travel Arranger will have access to a range of technology options to help prevent against safety and financial risks, and can recommend other apps and pieces of technology for your staff to download for protection on the road.   Preparing for A Corporate Trip As the saying goes, failing to prepare is preparing to fail – and there are a few key things that any staff member should do before preparing for a corporate trip to ensure their own safety and security. Check for required vaccinations and visas The last thing you or your staff want is to be caught mid-commute without the appropriate documentation, so ensure you’ve got the required visas well in advance. Some countries may also require certain vaccinations, or it may be advised to receive certain vaccinations due to health risks in certain countries, and your Pulse Travel Corporate Arranger will be able to advise regarding this. Ensure all electronics and valuables are appropriately insured Theft and misplacement of electronic devices are common occurrences when travelling – and the last thing you want is to lose or misplace a piece of company equipment. Ensure the businesses Travel Policy and Travel Risk Management Plan details what to do in the event of theft or loss of devices, and how to replace any necessary devices while travelling. Review your company’s Travel Policy and Risk Management Plan Your company's Travel Policy and Risk Management Plan will be full of advice regarding what you should expect from your trip and what you should do if you’re caught in trouble, so it’s recommended that travellers review these documents and familiarise themselves with the appropriate processes before setting off. These documents can be supplied as part of a travel pack given by the Travel Arranger with tickets and other important pieces of information. Ensure you’re educated on the culture and traditions of the region A big part of travelling is experiencing other cultures and traditions – but it’s also important to be sensitive to these, as insulting someone accidentally could result in being arrested or fined. When booking travel internationally, speak to your Pulse Travel Corporate Arranger regarding customs and traditions of the region that you’re travelling to, and make careful note to follow these.   While risk is a natural part of travel – and life in general – being appropriately prepared can go a long way in mitigating and preventing many risks from occurring. The Pulse Travel team has over 30 years of experience in Corporate Travel, and can support you in developing your Travel Risk Management Program. For more information, get in touch today.

Business travel is a large part of life for the corporate world – whether you’re in a small start-up business or work as a part of a global entity, chances are you’ll inevitably have to visit a business travel destination at some stage. With over 20 percent of the global travel expenditure on corporate travel in 2021 (Source: Statista), and that number since climbing, it’s important businesses choose a travel destination that’s suitable for the purposes of the journey. Whether you’re looking to book a major event or want to gain an understanding of the global travel market, read on to reveal the best Business Travel Destinations for 2024.   Choosing The Right Business Travel Destination Choosing the right travel destination can be as important as choosing the right venue for your wedding. Different states, countries and even hotels will have different amenities for corporate travellers, and the right destination for you will depend on your needs and travel goals.   Things To Consider In Your Business Travel Destination Whether you’re booking corporate travel for the first time or reviewing your priorities, there are several things to consider in your corporate travel destination: Accessibility - Is your destination easy and straightforward to get to? If it’s an international destination, will any other parties require visas to visit the destination? What transport is available? Accommodation - Is there appropriate accommodation that suits your needs? Does the accommodation offer the appropriate security, internet and any required meeting spaces? Amenities - Does your destination have the appropriate amenities – Spaces for private meetings or large conferences, appropriate internet access and convenient airport access if required? Local Culture - If you’re travelling outside of the country, it’s important to consider the local culture and traditions, and ensure you’re up-to-date with what is and isn’t acceptable in the region. Necessary Vaccinations & Visas - Does your destination require you to get any vaccinations or visas? If so, when should your travel be booked in order for you to meet those requirements?   If you’re choosing to travel for business for the first time, it can be beneficial to discuss all of these requirements with your Pulse Travel Arranger to ensure the destination you’re wanting to visit is fit for your travel purposes – you can speak with the team here to learn more.   Top 10 Business Travel Destinations for 2024- Top Destinations in Australia- Sydney Sydney is well-known as one of Australia’s corporate hubs, and it’s straightforward to see why. Home to many of Australia’s corporate HQ’s, vibrant dining and shopping precincts and plenty of modern accommodation, Sydney offers plenty of opportunities for travellers to host small meetings or large business functions. Melbourne Australia’s cultural hub, Melbourne offers plenty of opportunities for travellers to enjoy a ‘bleisure’ trip – a combination of business and leisure. With the airport close to modern accommodation, easily-accessible public transport and plenty of restaurants to treat clients to, Melbourne offers plenty of great spaces for corporate travellers. Brisbane Brisbane’s Corporate travel presence is quickly on the rise, with plenty of excellent cafes, walking spaces and accommodation all within a short distance of the airport and public transport. Brisbane is also hosting the 2032 Olympic games, meaning there is new infrastructure on the horizon ideal for larger events – watch this space.   Top 10 Destinations Worldwide: Dubai Dubai’s cutting-edge infrastructure and large conference centres make it the ideal location for business events big and small. It also offers plenty of business-friendly policies and is straightforward to reach from around the globe, making the city ideal for larger corporate events. Singapore Singapore’s central location for global travel makes it an easy destination for corporate travel – combine that with world-class exhibition centres, exceptional accommodation and business-friendly policies, and Singapore is ideal for global business travel. Nairobi The economic engine of East Africa, Nairobi promises strong business travel potential for those doing business in the region. Plenty of new infrastructure, increased flights and annual trade shows mean the city has plenty to offer those looking to travel to Africa for business. Mexico Bridging the markets of North and Latin America, Mexico provides a great, centralised location for those looking to expand into the regions. With ‘bleisure’ travel also increasing in popularity, the region offers a fantastic blend of cultural opportunities for corporate travellers to visit and enjoy while in the country. Kuala Lumpur Kuala Lumpur stands out as one of the world's best corporate travel destinations, boasting state-of-the-art infrastructure, world-class convention facilities like the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, and seamless air connectivity through KLIA airport. Its affordable accommodations and amenities also make it ideal for cost-conscious business travellers. As a gateway to the thriving ASEAN markets, Kuala Lumpur also hosts numerous multinational corporations' regional offices, further cementing its status as a premier business hub in Southeast Asia. Colombia Colombia is one of the world's top corporate travel destinations, offering a strategic location in northern South America and a thriving business environment. With a skilled workforce, competitive costs, modern infrastructure, and vibrant cities, Colombia provides an ideal setting for corporate events, conferences, and networking opportunities. Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam’s economic powerhouse, Ho Chi Minh City is the perfect travel destination for corporate travellers looking to visit the Asia region. With advanced tech infrastructure and a strategic location offering seamless connectivity to Asian markets, it attracts business travellers worldwide. Business-friendly policies, tax incentives, and streamlined regulations also enhance Ho Chi Minh’s appeal, making it an ideal hub for investors and entrepreneurs in the vibrant Vietnamese economy. Incheon Incheon has risen as a premier destination for business travellers, boasting a thriving business events hub and direct connectivity via the acclaimed Incheon International Airport. As South Korea's third-largest city, it offers unparalleled accessibility, with more than 70 airlines servicing direct flights from 180 global cities, making it an ideal choice for discerning business travellers. Tokyo Tokyo stands out as one of the world's premier destinations for business travellers. Renowned as a global economic powerhouse, Tokyo offers a dynamic corporate landscape characterised by innovation, advanced technology, and a highly skilled workforce. Its vibrant business environment makes it a top choice for discerning professionals seeking opportunities and collaborations on an international scale. New York New York City is a top destination for corporate travellers, blending financial dominance with diverse industries. From Wall Street's global influence to Silicon Valley's tech innovation, it offers unparalleled opportunities for professionals aiming to thrive in a dynamic, cosmopolitan environment.   Why Book Corporate Travel with Pulse Travel Boasting over 30 years of experience in the travel industry with seasoned travel agents, Pulse Travel and the team of Travel Agents are equipped to deal with all Corporate Travel enquiries, big or small. If you’re considering returning to corporate travel in 2024 and need more information, get in touch with the Pulse Travel team today.

International labour mobility through the PALM Scheme has long been the backbone of Australia’s agricultural workforce. Welcoming over 40,000 Working Holiday Makers into the country each year, Australia relies immensely on backpackers and Working Holiday Makers to supplement our agricultural workforce and support farmers during peak season. With CoVid19 preventing Working Holiday Makers from joining the Australian workforce, in April 2022 Australia introduced the PALM Scheme, allowing eligible workers from select island nations to join Australia’s workforce for long or short-term employment. For eligible employers, the PALM Scheme can have incredible benefits – Read on to learn more and learn about the Scheme and how Pulse Travel can support your workforce through it.   What is Australia’s PALM Scheme Standing for the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility Scheme, Australia’s PALM Scheme allows eligible Australian businesses to hire workers from select Pacific Islands to fill a variety of unskilled, low- or semi-skilled positions. Commonly used to help fill labour gaps within the regional Australian workforce, the PALM Scheme provides Australian businesses a pool of reliable and productive workers, while also offering opportunities for Pacific and Timor-Leste workers to develop skills and generate income to support their families back home. Limited to a select number of third-world nations, eligible nations include: Fiji Kiribati Nauru Papua New Guinea Samoa Solomon Islands Timor-Leste Tonga Tuvalu Vanuatu   Citizens from these countries are able to travel to Australia and work under the same protections as any other Australian employee, providing guaranteed labour for Australian businesses and a reliable source of income for families who need it.   PALM Scheme: Opportunities for Employers and Workers With over 40,000 Working Holiday Makers visiting Australia each year, a significant portion of Australia’s short- and long-term agricultural workforce is made up of Visa-holders. For those in the agricultural and farming industries, the short-staffing issues that came from the covid-19 pandemic meant struggling to harvest all of their crops during peak season, or having to pay significantly higher overheads resulting in increased prices for Australians. In comparison, people in Pacific and Island nations such as those included under the PALM Scheme faced significant challenges in looking after their families. The PALM Scheme brings significant support for people in both of these situations – Those in rural workforces can apply to employ reliable, long-term staff members and those who may be struggling to make sufficient income can apply to work in Australia under the PALM Scheme and send money home to their families. Providing opportunities for short-term employment (up to 9 months) or long-term employment (between one and four years), Australian rural businesses can be supported with guaranteed staff while citizens of select islands can be guaranteed stable finances.   Navigating Travel Arrangements Under the PALM Scheme While the process for obtaining staff through the PALM Scheme is fairly straightforward, there are several things businesses need to consider before their staff join the business – Including which visa their staff members will be working under, and how they will reach the country once the process is complete. Employers have several obligations under the PALM Scheme throughout the recruitment process, including: Applying and paying for the worker visa in the Home Affairs IMMI system. Providing HAP ID’s to Labour Sending Unit (LSU). Arranging and providing information on all travel details including accommodation, travel plans and arrival. As businesses are responsible for ensuring their staff arrive into the country safely, it’s important to ensure all travel details are looked after thoroughly and any required health checks, visa requirements and specific travel needs are managed for a smooth transition. If a business hasn’t been through this process before, it can be recommended to hire a Travel Agency with experience in Group and Corporate Travel such as Pulse Travel to manage this process.   Compliance & Worker Wellbeing in the PALM Scheme While the concept of a guaranteed long-term workforce can be alluring to many businesses, the PALM Scheme has built-in protections for both employees and employers to ensure both parties are satisfied with the arrangements.   PALM Scheme Employee Protections For employees, this looks like ensuring appropriate accommodation, work hours and safe working conditions. Any employer who wants to employ staff through the PALM Scheme must: Provide accommodation that meets the required standards. Ensure sufficient work hours that are in line with the minimum required hours. Work with the PALM Scheme to appoint a welfare and wellbeing officer within the organisation. Provide appropriate social support to staff employed through the scheme. Businesses can also expect arranged and surprise site visits to the premises to ensure staff are looked after appropriately at all times. PALM Scheme Employer Protections For those looking to employ staff through the PALM Scheme, ensuring the satisfaction of businesses is also a key priority. People looking to gain work through the PALM Scheme must also meet certain requirements, including: Be physically fit and healthy for the specified work. Have no criminal record and be of good character. Have an intention to return to the participating country. Hold or obtain a valid passport for the duration of the contract. Have a reasonable standard of English. Employers who are looking to employ through the PALM Scheme will work closely with the Labour Sending Unit (LSU) to ensure all candidates for their job are eligible.   Why Choose Pulse Travel for PALM Scheme Travel Management With PALM Scheme employers responsible for paying their employees’ upfront travel costs and arranging all flights, accommodation and other transport, it’s important to do it correctly. For businesses, this looks like working with an experienced Corporate Travel Agency such as Pulse Travel. Not only can Pulse Travel source, book and troubleshoot any flights or accommodation needed within the budget set by your business, but they can also ensure any accommodation chosen meets the PALM Scheme’s accommodation requirements set out in the Wellbeing Plan. Pulse Travel has over 30 years of experience in the Travel industry, booking corporate and leisure travel for hundreds of businesses. If you’re looking to obtain staff through the PALM Scheme in 2024 and need support booking your staff’s travel requirements, get in touch today.