6000 blood donors needed as 2024 draws to a close

Australian Red Cross Lifeblood is making a final call for blood donors for 2024, with an extra 860 donations a day still needed across the country this week to maintain supplies for patients. 

On the back of Christmas and with the New Year’s Day public holiday looming, it is a traditionally challenging time to fill donation chairs.  

Lifeblood Executive Director of Donor Experience, Cath Stone said this year is no different.  

“It was wonderful to see so many people respond to our Christmas Blood Blitz, but we haven’t made it through the seasonal slump yet,” Cath said.  

“Hundreds more donors are needed to meet patient needs.  

“If you are eligible to donate and have some spare time, please book a donation this week to support people who rely on blood products for their life-saving treatments.”   

More than 33,000 donations are needed each week in Australia for serious accidents, surgery, complicated births, cancer treatment, and more. 

Throughout 2024, demand for blood and plasma continued to increase at record levels. More donations are now needed than ever before, largely due to a growing and aging population.  

Cath said Lifeblood has a mission to attain an extra 100,000 donors in 2025. 

“One in three people will need blood in their lifetime, yet only one in 30 donates,” she said.  

“The start of a new year is often a time for reflection and change and I encourage the community to kick start the year on a positive note with a blood or plasma donation.  

“Even better, continue that goodwill and keep donating throughout 2025 and beyond. A blood donation only takes one hour. It’s not a large time commitment but you will make a life-changing difference.” 

Donor centres are open throughout the New Year break, with 27 centres around the country opening their doors on New Year’s Day. 

To book a donation – and check which donor centres are open over the holiday season - call 13 14 95, visit lifeblood.com.au, or download the free Donate Blood app. 

State breakdown of additional donors needed each day: 

National: 860
VIC: 290
NSW: 240
QLD: 120
WA: 80
SA: 50
ACT: 50
TAS: 30