The move aims to bolster the service’s donor lists to help combat seasonal shortages. Blood Service spokeswoman Erin Lagoudakis said an estimated 9 million Australians were eligible to give blood but only 500,000 donated.
“Blood donation has been a proud Australian tradition for 87 years and was born out of a need for lifesaving transfusions,” she said.
“The delivery of blood was time critical and ,despite many advances, that is still the case today, with some critical components unable to be stored longer than one week.
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READ NOW“Because there are times when donor numbers are traditionally low, such as long weekends and cold and flu outbreaks, we need additional donors to come on board between now and the end of the year to continue helping the one in three Australians who will need donated blood in their lifetime.”
To donate, call 13 14 95 or visit www.donateblood.com.au.