Australia Post is digitising the age-old practice of sending parcels by allowing sends to add a personalised Video Stamp to their mail.

Senders scan the QR-coded Video Stamp on their parcel’s mail bag and use their smartphone to record a 15-second video message for the receiver.

Once the parcel arrives the recipient scans the Video Stamp QR code to receive their personal message.

The free value-add initiative for Express Post and Express Courier International products is an important part of Australia Post’s pre-Christmas campaign.

“This is our busiest time of year and to be able to give people a unique way to deliver their Christmas wishes in person is thrilling for us. This year, Australia Post can literally deliver you to your loved ones,” Greg Sutherland, the brand’s chief marketing officer, said.

Clemenger BBDO Melbourne’s executive creative director Ant Keogh described the Video Stamp as a “high tech extension to an age-old service”.

“In the face of growing competition in parcel delivery, we were tasked with making sure Australia Post remains the go-to delivery provider this Christmas. As an agency we’re excited to provide an innovative, digital solution to a real-world business problem,” Keogh said.

Three million Vide Stamps have been created and are available now from participating Australai Post outlets across the country.

Awareness of Video Stamps will be driven by a national TV, digital, print, online video and outdoor advertising campaign.

There is also a website and apps for Apple and Android products.