The Australian government is launching an alcohol safety campaign aimed at young travelers. This campaign comes in response to the deaths of Melbourne teenagers Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles, who passed away after consuming alcohol contaminated with methanol while on holiday in Laos. Their families continue to seek answers. Besides them, a total of six foreign tourists died in what is suspected to be a mass methanol poisoning incident in the country.
Originally slated to begin next month, the new Smartraveller campaign will use social media, SMS, and airport communications to educate young Australians about the dangers of alcohol, the signs of methanol poisoning, and safety precautions. Foreign Affair Minister Penny Wong stated that the campaign is particularly driven by the tragic losses faced by Holly and Bianca’s families, and is aimed at ensuring the safety ofAustralian youngsters exploring the world.
As part of the campaign, an advertising campaign is set to start before the end of the school year, with a dedicated website for schools, universities, and parents launching in June. The government intends to collaborate with organizations such as Red Frogs and the Nicole Fitzsimmons Foundation to amplify the campaign’s messages.
The campaign announcement coincides with an ongoing diplomatic effort to push for a thorough and transparent investigation into the Laos deaths. Reporting by Guardian revealed that the British embassy, along with the Danish and Australian embassies, raised the issue with Laos’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs on February 26.
These efforts reflect the government’s commitment to the safety and well-being of Australian travelers, especially among the youth demographic. The Smartraveller website already provides safety tips on partying, including advice on recognizing methanol poisoning and the importance of staying connected with friends.
The tragic incident in Laos highlights the importance of awareness and safety for travelers, particularly in Southeast Asia, where methanol poisoning through alcohol consumption can pose a significant risk. The new campaign aims to prevent such incidents by equipping young people with the necessary information to stay safe while traveling.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/mar/24/alcohol-safety-ads-to-target-young-australian-travellers-amid-push-for-answers-over-methanol-deaths-ntwnfb
