In a bid to get more Aussies and Kiwis back on the pitch, back into sport, and back to getting dirty, OMO has launched a new campaign via 303 MullenLowe.

Using its long-standing ‘Dirt is Good’ positioning, the new trans-Tasman campaign focusses on someone making a comeback to sport after a long break, and the fun and mess it generates.

With a tagline of “Comeback again. And again” and directed by Dave Wood of GoodOil, it reinforces OMO’s connection to ANZ sport, and its ability to wash away the dirt from a game – encouraging people to play on.

“AusPlay data reveals that participation in organised sport drops away for young and midlife adults as life gets in the way. We wanted to show that anyone can stage a comeback and remind them of the fun they’ve been missing out on. In today’s sanitised world, it’s refreshing to see adults enjoying the fun and freedom that comes with sport and not worrying about the dirt. And what better way to demonstrate the restorative power of OMO Ultimate than by telling the story of a middling weekend footballer returning to the pitch, albeit very briefly!”

Running across TV and OOH in both Australia and NZ, the campaign also comprises in-store activity, with a special OMO offer to cover sport registration fees in 2025 for those planning their own sporting comeback.

Unilever Australia’s home care marketing manager Annie Lucchitti said research undertaken as part of the campaign development had reinforced the strong connection both Australians and New Zealanders have with sport. However, many believed their “best sporting days were behind them, thanks to life’s demands, other priorities or aching bones”. “That’s where OMO can help,” Annie said.

“OMO has been demonstrating Dirt Is Good for decades, and with sport being such an integral part of ANZ’s fabric, we want to encourage people to challenge themselves again to get back into those communities and surprise themselves with what it can be in their lives at all ages.”