The world of advertising is evolving at lightning speed, and in 2025, Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) are at the forefront of some game-changing shifts. AI is getting smarter, personalization is becoming second nature, and brands are working harder than ever to create ads that feel more relevant, seamless, and engaging.
So, what’s next for the ANZ advertising scene? Let’s dive into the biggest trends shaping the industry this year.
AI Is Taking Over (In the Best Way Possible!)
Artificial Intelligence isn’t just a buzzword anymore—it’s completely changing the way brands create and deliver ads. In 2025, AI is helping advertisers:
- Create content faster – AI tools are now writing ad copy, designing creatives, and even producing videos tailored to different audiences.
- Predict consumer behavior with precision – AI-driven analytics now forecast trends and purchasing patterns with remarkable accuracy, helping brands optimize their campaigns.
- Enhance engagement through AI-driven conversations – Chatbots and voice AI are now offering hyper-personalized customer interactions, improving brand loyalty and response times.
AI isn’t here to replace creativity—it’s here to make advertising smarter, faster, and more effective.
Hyper-Personalization: No More ‘One-Size-Fits-All’ Ads
Remember when online ads felt generic and impersonal? That’s becoming a thing of the past. Consumers now expect brands to speak directly to them, and companies are using data to make that happen.
- First-party data is key – With third-party cookies on their way out, brands are focusing on collecting data directly from customers (through loyalty programs, surveys, and app interactions).
- Real-time ad customization – AI helps adjust ads dynamically based on user behaviour, interests, and even location.
- Smart product recommendations – Brands like Netflix and Spotify use AI to suggest content, and now advertisers are adopting similar technology to improve product recommendations.
In short, the ads you see will feel more like they were made just for you.
Retail Media Networks (RMNs) Are Changing the Game
Big-name retailers like Woolworths and Coles aren’t just selling groceries anymore—they’re becoming major advertising players. Their first-party shopper data is gold for brands looking to target consumers with pinpoint accuracy.
Here’s why RMNs are taking off:
- Retailers know their customers better than anyone.
- Brands can place ads directly where people shop, leading to higher conversions.
- It’s a cost-effective alternative to traditional digital advertising, which is getting more expensive.
Expect more brands to invest in RMNs as they look for smarter ways to reach their audience.
Video & Interactive Content Are Everywhere
It’s no secret that video dominates the internet, and in 2025, brands are doubling down on engaging, interactive formats.
- Short-form videos continue to rise – Platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts are where brands capture attention in seconds.
- Shoppable videos streamline the buying journey – Watch a video, click a product, and buy instantly—seamless shopping at its best.
- AI-generated video ads are booming – High-quality video content is being created with minimal human input, making it faster and cheaper for brands to produce compelling ads.
Consumers crave entertainment, and brands are responding by making their content more immersive and interactive.
Sustainability & Ethical Advertising Matter More Than Ever
Consumers are paying closer attention to how brands operate, and they expect companies to be more responsible—especially in advertising.
- Eco-friendly digital campaigns – Companies are cutting back on wasteful ad practices to reduce their carbon footprint.
- Authenticity is key – More brands are aligning themselves with social causes that truly matter to their audience.
- Transparency in data use – Customers want to know how their data is being used, and brands that prioritize privacy will win trust.
People support brands that align with their values, so ethical advertising isn’t just good practice—it’s good business.
The Rise of Smarter Programmatic Advertising
Automated ad buying, known as programmatic advertising, is getting even more advanced.
- AI-driven bidding strategies maximize ROI – Real-time bidding algorithms ensure brands get the best value for their ad spend.
- Connected TV (CTV) advertising is booming – Expect more personalized ads on streaming platforms like Netflix and Disney+.
- Audio ads are on the rise – With podcasts and music streaming gaining popularity, brands are leveraging targeted audio advertising to engage users in new ways.
As ads become more automated and data-driven, they’re also becoming more effective.
Final Thoughts: What’s Next for ANZ Advertising?
In 2025, advertising in Australia and New Zealand is all about AI, personalization, and meaningful connections. Brands that embrace these trends will not only stay ahead of the competition but also create advertising that truly resonates with their audience.
Which of these trends do you think will have the biggest impact on your business? Are you already using AI in your advertising strategy? Share your thoughts in the comments!
About
Kiran Kumar Reddy is a global creative leader with over two decades of experience in advertising and marketing across Europe, the Middle East, and the Asia-Pacific. As the driving force behind Nexis Creative, he blends strategy, storytelling, and cultural insight to craft impactful brand experiences. Passionate about creativity and innovation, Kiran seamlessly bridges global markets while mentoring the next generation of creative talent.
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