About the campaign
Designed with young drivers and passengers in mind, “The Hug of Life” campaign encourages young people to view wearing a seatbelt as a natural act of care, not just a rule to follow. It was informed by research into the behaviours and attitudes of 17–25-year-olds which showed many wear seatbelts “sometimes” or “rarely”, despite understanding the risks. Some were more focused on fines than safety, while others felt comfortable taking the risk because “nothing bad had happened yet.” These insights revealed a casual attitude toward seatbelt use among 17-25 year olds in NSW.
“The Hug of Life” was designed to change that mindset. The phrase “The Hug of Life” is a twist on the familiar “Kiss of Life”, the lifesaving gesture often used in resuscitation, giving seatbelt use a caring, personal angle and framing it as protective rather than restrictive. The message of this campaign is simple: seatbelts save lives, and they should feel like a natural act of self care. The design is positive, engaging and speaks directly to young people in a way that is relatable and memorable.
taking action
Wearing a seatbelt remains one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent death and serious injury on our roads, reducing the risk of death or serious injury by up to 50% in a crash. Yet, some young drivers and passengers still choose not to wear one, especially on short familiar trips or in the back seat. A high proportion of fatal crashes occur within a few kilometres from home, showing that every journey matters.
WHAT YOU CAN DO:
1. Click in every trip — Whether it’s a quick drive to the shops or a long road trip, make buckling up the first thing you do.
2. Check your mates — If someone forgets, remind them. It’s not nagging — it’s looking out for them.
3. Lead by example — Younger passengers and friends notice good habits. Be the one to start a positive chain reaction.
4. Stay informed — Keep up to date with seatbelt safety, penalties, and road rules in your state.
Know Your Seatbelt Facts
Access statistics, research and safety advice to stay protected.
About me
Hello, my name is Holly Porter and I am the creator of “The Hug of Life,” the selected Re:act Regional 2025 campaign at TAFE NSW Kingscliff. Participating in Re:act has been an eye opening experience. Through research, creative development and feedback, I’ve seen just how much design can influence behaviour, particularly when it comes to road safety.
I’ve always considered myself a careful driver. I never start the car without putting my seatbelt on and I always make sure everyone else is strapped in, too. That’s why the results of my research really surprised me. Before this program, I knew seatbelts were important but I hadn’t realised how often people take them for granted. Speaking with others my age revealed that even though most of us understand the risks, some still skip wearing seatbelts particularly on short trips. It made me realise how easy it is to become complacent about road safety, and that insight shaped this campaign, from its positive tone to the message that safety is an act of care.
Participating in Re:act has completely changed the way I think about design and responsibility. It inspired me to create a campaign that reframes seatbelt use as something positive and human, not just a rule but a way to care for yourself and the people you’re with. Working on this campaign has made me even more aware of the small, everyday choices that protect us and why that simple “click” is worth everything.