TAC ad draws international attention

02 Mar 2010

Media Release: 2 March 2010

The Transport Accident Commission's montage of 20 years of campaigns is the third most viewed Australian YouTube channel.

The montage is an international hit with more than a million views on YouTube and hundreds of comments reacting to the powerful footage.

The video has received strong reaction from across the world, with particular interest from Poland, the United States and Canada.

The montage was posted on YouTube on December 10, 2009, 20 years since the first TAC advertisement went to air.

It includes the most memorable images from the TAC's campaigns, including crash scenes, trauma patients in hospital and families dealing with the loss of a loved one.

The TAC's Head of Community Relations Philip Reed said the international interest showed that emotive advertisements were having a powerful impact on driving.

"This montage of our most graphic ads has resonated across the world," Mr Reed said.

"The comments show that viewers have been affected by the montage and they appreciate its potential to help drivers realise the consequences of ignoring road safety.

Mr Reed said social media had a growing role in spreading the TAC's message.

"Many of the YouTube viewers sharing the video with others on Facebook and other similar websites," Mr Reed said.

We know that there are more than 60 road safety related groups on Facebook and a real thirst out there for discussing the issues.

"I encourage you to share this link with your loved ones to help keep them safe on the roads."

 The 20 year montage is at www.youtube.com/TAC.

Media contact: Emily Bogue 0429 416 778.