Australian Red Cross Lifeblood is calling on Australians to roll up their sleeves this week, with 13,000 A and O blood donations urgently needed over the next seven days as national blood stocks run very low.
The appeal comes as Lifeblood warns supplies could fall to critical levels by June without an immediate boost in donor appointments, placing added pressure on the blood products hospitals rely on every day for cancer treatment, surgery, trauma care and childbirth.
In South Australia, 450 additional donors are needed, while Victoria has the highest shortfall nationally with 5500 donors required, followed by New South Wales with 3200 and Queensland with 2700.
The call-out has arrived as cold and flu season begins to bite, with winter typically bringing the highest appointment cancellation rates of the year. As colds, flu and seasonal illnesses spread through the community, many regular donors are unable to attend, even when they are willing to help.
Lifeblood says concerns are heightened this year following a long and intense 2025 winter, along with warnings of new influenza strains circulating in the community.
Lifeblood spokesperson Cath Stone said donors with type A or O blood were being asked to book an appointment and donate this week.
“Winter is always a challenging time for blood donation. When people are unwell with colds or flu, they can’t donate – even if they want to,” Cath said.
“But the need for blood doesn’t slow down. Patients undergoing cancer treatment, people needing surgery, and those injured in accidents rely on blood every single day.”
Type O and A blood are among the types most frequently ordered by hospitals, making these donors especially important in keeping Australia’s blood supply safe and reliable.
Across the country, a blood donation is needed every 18 seconds, while Lifeblood issues close to 10,000 blood products and medications to hospitals every day. In major trauma cases, one patient can require up to 100 donations.
The urgent call is particularly important before winter illness rates rise further, with Lifeblood encouraging anyone who is eligible, healthy and well to book now rather than wait.
“We’re asking anyone who might be eligible and is feeling healthy and well – particularly those with A or O blood – to book an appointment now, before winter illnesses take hold,” Cath said.
“One hour in a donor centre can make a life-changing difference for someone else, and it helps protect our blood supplies through the colder months ahead.”
People who do not know their blood type are also encouraged to donate, with Lifeblood confirming all blood types are needed, including for plasma.
To book a donation, call 13 14 95, visit lifeblood.com.au or download the Lifeblood app.
