APTA - WHY YOU SHOULD JOIN APTA !
Public Relations
APTA is the interface point between the trade and the stamp collecting public, philatelic societies, philatelic publishers, foreign and domestic postal agencies.
Developing interest and awareness in both APTA and the hobby
Promoting collector confidence in APTA dealer members through advertising.
Website
APTA has a user-friendly pro-active Website.
Current Member Listings (regularly updated ) - Complete Listing, State listings and alphabetical listings with simple search facilities.
Resource Links - Member Dealers, Philatelic Associations, Philatelic Journals, Auction Houses and other Useful Links
Advertising Forum - In-House Trade Centre
Upcoming Philatelic Events
Membership Application Form
Theft Report Form
Advertising
APTA regularly advertises in philatelic journals to promote member recognition, APTA sponsored shows and the hobby generally.
Members are provided with the APTA logo in various forms for exclusive use in advertising that they can undertake and in displays for customers to see.
Dealer members can participate in Regional listings under the APTA banner in the "Yellow Pages" telephone directories.
News & Views
Regional meetings enable the interchange of views and ideas between members and a
chance to discuss important trade issues.
Lobbying on pertinent issues: APTA presents the views of the members to Governments, Australia Post and other bodies, on matters of material interest to the trade. Areas include Postal charges, stamp issuing policies, legislation etc.
Regular newsletter keep members up to date with the philatelic market place and provide:
¨ Low cost advertising to develop trade contacts
¨ Membership changes/applications
¨ Confidential information on whom to trade with caution.
¨ Interesting articles
Other information:
In addition to the above, a wide range of helpful information is provided, including industrial relation and retailing issues.
Membership Directory: published from time to time with a listing of all members, and their specialties. These lists are widely distributed at Stamp & Coin shows and for general enquiries.
Gift Vouchers:
APTA donates or distributes a number of valuable gift vouchers each year through philatelic societies and stamp shows. These gift vouchers can only be redeemed at APTA member establishments, thus money flows back to our members
Certificate of Warranty and Guarantee:
As part of membership with APTA, members are supplied each year with a stock of pre-printed certificates that may be used for issuing their own warranty on more substantial purchases by customers. This stock of certificates is worth $25 each year and have a potential resale value of $125 or more.
Credit information:
Confidential information only for members is provided of individuals and firms with whom to trade with caution. APTA has established a set of industry codes that classify particular complaints.
Debt Collection Service:
Through APTA we can offer an efficient and inexpensive debt collection service.
Stolen Stamps:
APTA liaises with Police Departments, members and collector bodies, to exchange information on all matters relating to stolen philatelic & numismatic material. Members are promptly advised of all such relevant information through an organised communication network.
Exhibitions and Shows
APTA co-operates and assists with the promotion and organisation of National and International exhibitions and protects the interests of the trade in relation to these events.
Membership of APTA is a requirement for holding a dealers stand at all major National shows
APTA Stamp Shows are held in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney each year. Members from any state or overseas can participate by obtaining a stand at any of these shows.
Customer Enquiries:
APTA receives many enquiries from collectors seeking advice on how and where to sell their collection or where to purchase stamps for their collection. These contacts are referred to dealer members in that area.
Arbitration of Complaints:
APTA arbitrates disputes between:
¨ members & members
¨ the public and members
¨ the public and non-members (Advice only given)
The National Office provides a service by investigating disputed and or unresolved transactions following the lodgement of complaints. The aim is always to settle the dispute amicably, without resorting to legal action.
Other Organisations:
Membership of the International Federation of Stamp Dealers’ Associations (IFSDA) is automatic upon joining APTA. This entitles you to free admission to IFSDA sponsored shows, receipt of IFSDA newsletters, the bi-annual handbook and a free listing of your business in this handbook. The book also includes names and addresses of many other major international dealers and other international philatelic organizations and much useful information.
The Australian Philatelic Federation (APF): APTA is represented on all state Philatelic Associations and the federal body and keeps closely in touch with all relevant matters. APTA is also responsible for organising trade stands at National APF shows.
Australia Post: APTA communicates regularly with AUSTRALIA POST and has direct representation on the Australia Post Monitoring and Advisory Committee (APMMAC).