Why the Govt’s graphic coronavirus ad won’t work

Professor Jane Speight

On Sunday July 11, the Federal Government released two new COVID-19 campaigns. The first, shared across Australia, is a call to “arm yourself” (and others) against the virus by getting vaccinated as soon as you’re eligible.

The second is a graphic fear appeal, broadcast only in NSW, which shows a young woman in a hospital bed struggling to breathe. The advert has the caption: “COVID-19 can affect anyone. Stay home. Get tested. Book your vaccination.”