Australian Red Cross Lifeblood has issued an urgent appeal for blood donors as critical supplies run dangerously low.
The call comes after record-breaking demand for blood during winter, coupled with the highest cancellation rates since the COVID-19 pandemic and fewer seasonal bookings.
Lifeblood says it needs 12,500 additional donors over the next week to help ease pressure on blood and plasma reserves.
In Queensland alone, an extra 2,350 people are needed to roll up their sleeves and donate.
Chief Executive Officer Stephen Cornelissen said a “perfect storm” of winter illnesses, cancellations and surging demand had left supplies under strain.
“This winter hit particularly hard. At the same time, we experienced our highest ever winter demand for blood, which has significantly impacted Lifeblood supplies,” he said.
Cornelissen urged Australians to act now, stressing that all blood types are urgently needed.
“We’re urging anyone who is eligible and feeling healthy and well to book a donation immediately. If you’ve never donated before, now is the time to start—every donation counts,” he said.
According to Lifeblood, a blood donor is needed every 18 seconds in Australia to help patients with cancer, trauma injuries, pregnancy complications and major surgery.
Just one donation can save up to three lives, and the process takes as little as an hour.
