Donors needed to prevent critical hospital shortages

AUSTRALIAN Red Cross Lifeblood has issued an urgent nationwide appeal for 13,000 A and O blood donors to come forward over the next seven days to prevent supplies from plummeting to critical levels.

The emergency call comes as the organisation braces for a severe winter period, with cold and flu season already triggering high appointment cancellation rates.

Blood stock levels are facing sustained pressure ahead of June, threatening the vital supplies that hospitals rely on daily for cancer treatments, major surgeries, trauma care and childbirth.

Health officials are particularly concerned this year following a protracted 2025 winter and recent warnings regarding new influenza strains circulating in the community.

Lifeblood spokesperson Cath Stone said seasonal illnesses drastically reduce the number of people eligible to give, even though patient demand never slows down.

“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,” she 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.”

Types O and A are the most heavily used blood groups by Australian hospitals, making those specific donors critical to maintaining daily medical operations.

In severe trauma cases alone, a single patient can require the equivalent of 100 donations to survive.

People who don’t know their blood type are also encouraged to donate, as all blood types are needed, including for plasma.

To book a donation, call 13 14 95 or visit lifeblood.com.au