Aussies urged to donate blood as shortage looms

Australian blood supplies are quickly dwindling with Lifeblood Australia estimating 1800 Aussies will need to donate blood every day for the next two weeks to avoid a shortage over the holiday period.

Specifically those with O and A blood groups are being urged to donate at centres which will remain open throughout the holiday period.

Donations points will be open around Australia on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day to encourage Aussies to donate.

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"We know that every 18 seconds this Christmas someone somewhere in Australia will rely on blood whether that is for serious accidents, surgery, complicated births, or cancer treatment," said Lifeblood Executive Director of Donor Services, Cath Stone.

"We are urging 1,800 Australians a day to roll up their sleeves and donate to ensure those patients have access to the blood and blood products they need.

"More than 80 per cent of the population has an O or A blood group meaning these blood types are most in demand by hospitals."

Stone said the short shelf life of blood platelets meant regular donors were always needed.

"We know many regular donors may take the opportunity to travel this festive season, which is why we're urging people to make donating blood a priority," she said.

"A particular part of our blood, called platelets, only last for seven days. Platelets are a vital clotting agent used in emergencies and cancer treatment, and it takes four donors to make just one bag of platelets.

"We therefore need to ensure that people donate blood right through the holiday period."

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State-by-state breakdown of donors needed from today through to January 1:

Australian Capital Territory: 100 donors a day

South Australia: 125 donors a day

New South Wales: 550 donors a day

Tasmania: 65 donors a day

Western Australia: 170 donors a day

Victoria: 550 donors a day

Queensland: 300 donors a day

Darwin, Northern Territory: 12 donors a day

How to Donate

You can book a donation here, or check your eligibility here

You can also call 13 14 95 to book a donation date and time.

Or download the free Donate Blood App for iPhone and Android