What’s Happening?
Australia faces a critical shortage in blood and plasma donations due to a surge in cold and flu cases leading to the highest cancellation rates in five years, Lifeblood is urgently seeking 1,000 additional donors in Queensland to replenish stocks.
Why it Matters?
The shortage puts patients at risk, including those needing cancer treatment, surgery, or emergency care. Without sufficient donations, Lifeblood may struggle to meet the nation’s daily demand for 33,000 donations.
By the Numbers
-1 in 5 donors cancelled or rescheduled due to illness this winter.
-Only 3% of Australians donate regularly, though 57% are eligible.
-Lifeblood requires an additional 1,000 Queensland donors in the next week.
Local Impact
Rockhampton, Queensland is one of the regions hardest hit, with an urgent need for 30 more blood and plasma donors between August 21 and 26.
Zoom In
Lifeblood’s new Blood Supply Update tool allows real-time monitoring of blood levels, encouraging donations when specific blood types are needed.
Zoom out
Breakdown of Additional Blood and Plasma Donors Needed
- Cairns: Over 100 blood and plasma donors
- Townsville: Over 200 plasma donors
- Mackay: 100 blood and plasma donors
- Gladstone: Over 100 blood and plasma donors
- Bundaberg: 100 blood and plasma donors
- Hervey Bay: 150 blood and plasma donors
- Sunshine Coast: 100 blood and plasma donors
- Ipswich: 150 blood and plasma donors
- Toowoomba: 200 blood and plasma donors
- Gold Coast: Over 400 blood and plasma donors
- Brisbane: 1,000 blood and plasma donors
What to Look for Next
Donors can book appointments and receive a limited-edition bandage designed by Indigenous artist Brad Hore if they donate before September 8. Lifeblood emphasises the importance of filling donor chairs as the flu season winds down.
If you can donate; please consider stepping up to help replenish our vital blood supply. You can book a donation now by calling 13 14 95 or book online at lifeblood.com.au or on the DonateBlood app. For more information, contact Belinda Smetioukh at 0432 793 904.
