Boosting and advertising, while both utilising social media platforms to reach potential customers, differ significantly in their scope and control. Boosting amplifies an existing post to a wider audience, while advertising allows for the creation of dedicated campaigns with highly targeted parameters.
- Targeting Options: As of early 2026, boosting primarily uses audience suggestions based on your existing followers, with limited demographic or interest-based refinement. Advertising, however, now features granular targeting options including location (down to postcode), behaviours, interests, and even custom audience uploads.
- Campaign Objectives: Boosting generally focuses on increasing post engagement (likes, shares, comments). Current systems include advertising objectives like website traffic, lead generation, app installs, and brand awareness.
- Budget Control & Scheduling: Boosting typically offers a simple, fixed budget. Advertising in 2026 allows for daily or lifetime budgets, bid strategies, and precise scheduling.
In 2026, Australian businesses must also be mindful of the updated ACCC guidelines regarding digital advertising transparency. Advertising platforms now require clearer disclosure of sponsored content and data usage practices, impacting campaign setup and reporting. Compliance is easier with a dedicated strategy.
Navigating these technical complexities and ensuring compliance can be time-consuming and challenging. We can take care of all this for you. Contact our team at ROI Growth Agency to discuss a tailored digital marketing strategy for your business.