Lifeblood has issued an urgent call for Australians to roll up their sleeves and donate blood this week after a record number of New Year cancellations left blood stocks critically low.
Last week, more than 6,500 people cancelled their donation appointments – the highest number of New Year week cancellations in three years. An additional 14,000 people either rescheduled or missed their appointments, creating a significant undersupply at one of the most vital times of the year.
Lifeblood is urgently seeking 12,000 additional donors this week.
“We know the festive season is a busy time of year, and everyone looks forward to a well-earned break, but the need for blood has not stopped,” said Cath Stone, Lifeblood’s Executive Director of Donor Experience
“Every day, we are issuing more than 9,500 blood and plasma transfusions and medications to Australian hospitals.
“There are still cancer patients, road trauma victims, new mums and newborn babies, and people with immune deficiencies that are relying on the generosity of blood donors.”
Despite a record-breaking 1.66 million donations in 2024 – nearly 30,000 more than the previous year – demand for blood and plasma remains at an all-time high due to Australia’s growing and ageing population. Lifeblood estimates that 100,000 additional donors will be needed in 2025 to meet the rising demand.
“Now that the holiday season has come to an end and people are returning to their normal routines, we’re hoping more people will find an hour in their schedule to save lives,” Cath said.
“It could be because someone you know has cancer or because you need a new year’s resolution. It could be because it makes you feel good, or it might even be because of the party pies.”
Australians can now check the nation’s blood supply levels in real-time online, making it easier to see when donations are urgently needed.
To book a donation, call 13 14 95, visit lifeblood.com.au, or download the Donate Blood App.
Breakdown of Additional Donors Needed by State:
- National: 12,000
- Victoria: 5,600
- New South Wales: 3,100
- Queensland: 1,600
- Western Australia: 800
- South Australia: 500
- Australian Capital Territory: 300
- Tasmania: 50
- Northern Territory: 50
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