Travel Auctions, a well-established Australian travel platform, has officially launched its services in Western Australia, marking a significant expansion for the family-owned company. Founded in 1992 and based in South Australia, the brand is already familiar to many Australians, with more than a million users having booked short-stay holidays through its innovative auction system.
How Travel Auctions Works for Holiday Seekers
On the Travel Auctions website, travellers can simply place a bid to secure a winning price on various accommodations. This might include a coastal cabin, a bed and breakfast in the outback, a houseboat on a river, or numerous other options. For example, this week's auctions feature the BreakAway Houseboat on the Murray River in South Australia, available for up to seven people for two nights, with the auction ending on January 29, 2026.
The Benefits for Accommodation Providers and Travellers
A spokesperson for Travel Auctions explains that the platform offers a win-win scenario. "Travel Auctions gives accommodation providers the chance to increase occupancy in quieter times, without having to advertise a discounted rate — a saving they can pass on to every cheeky bidder, in every auction," they said. This approach helps properties fill rooms during off-peak periods while providing travellers with potential bargains.
Behind the Scenes: A Family-Owned Operation
The company is operated by a 30-strong team that works like an extended family, ensuring a personal touch in an often-faceless online industry. Ben and Kim Mead own and operate Travel Auctions, with Ben also serving as managing director at Holidays of Australia & The World, a partner for various travel packages. The spokesperson emphasises, "That's why you're just an email or phone call away from the very people that make Travel Auctions a friendly, familiar face."
Getting Started with Travel Auctions
To begin bidding, users must follow a straightforward process:
- Register with your first and second name, birthdate, phone number, and email address.
- Select the types of travel you're interested in from a wide range of categories, such as active, beach, cruise, family/group, fishing, golf, outback, pet-friendly, and wine regions.
- Specify your preferred travel destinations if planning interstate trips.
- Search current auctions and place a bid on accommodations that catch your eye.
- If you're a successful bidder after the auction closes, you'll be notified and can pay securely online to receive a voucher.
- Contact the property directly to book your stay, and use the website's resources, like a YouTube tutorial, to guide you through the process.
After travelling, users can provide feedback on properties they enjoyed, and Travel Auctions will notify them when those accommodations are available again on the site.
Gift Vouchers for Flexible Gifting
Travel Auctions also offers gift vouchers, which provide flexibility for recipients:
- The voucher value is customizable to suit your budget.
- Vouchers are redeemed towards the purchase of a Travel Auctions holiday and remain valid for three years.
- When purchasing, you can include a personalised message for the recipient, adding a thoughtful touch.
For more information, visit the Travel Auctions website or contact them via phone or email. This expansion into Western Australia represents a new opportunity for locals to access unique holiday experiences through a trusted Australian brand.
