Australia Post has released a world-first “video stamp” which will let people send a 15-second video with their Christmas parcels.

Senders scan a code on the stamp with their iPhone or Android smartphone, record their message via the Australia Post app, and then stick the stamp to their parcel.

Recipients can then view the message by scanning the stamp using any QR-code reader on their smartphone or tablet.

Alternatively they can visit the Australia Post website and key in a unique code.

Messages can be viewed for up to three months after they are recorded and can be shared via social media.

The stamps, which hit stores on Monday, are free with Express Post and Express Courier International products.

Australia Post have created “a few million” stamps, each with unique barcodes, a spokeswoman said.

They will be trialled over the Christmas period and, if successful, be rolled out long-term.

Richard Umbers, the head of parcel services at Australia Post, said the stamps would help “eliminate the tyranny of distance”.

AAP