The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has launched its latest awareness campaign, Smartraveller, featuring 2011 bungee-jump victim Erin Langworthy.  

Erin was severely injured after falling 111 metres from Victoria Falls Bridge in Zambia last year.

She was registered with Smartraveller and had taken out full insurance, covering the AU$50,000 worth of medical expenses incurred.

Ms Langworthy will promote the campaign through videos, postcards, photos and on social media channels.

The new marketing strategy is accompanied by a competition entitled ‘Travel Tales’ - an opportunity for Australians to recount touring adventures and provide social commentary on the benefits of being a Smartraveller.

$6000 worth of travel vouchers is up for grabs, with entrants required to submit a photo, video or written story describing their travel experiences.

“Tell us your travel tale! Have you had a misadventure while travelling? Have you always been a Smartraveller and registered your travel, taken out travel insurance and read the travel advice for the countries you visit?” the competition’s website said.

“Travellers who are not covered by insurance are personally liable for covering incurred medical and associated costs.

“As a result, families have been forced to sell off assets, including their superannuation or family homes, to afford to bring loved ones back to Australia for treatment.”

New government campaign reminding Australians about travel insurance.