More supplies are needed to combat seasonal donor shortages over long weekends and flu outbreaks.
An estimated nine million Australians are eligible to give blood but only 500,000 are registered donors.
Blood Service spokeswoman Erin Lagoudakis said it was time for the remaining 8.5 million Aussies to consider their options.
“Blood donation has been a proud Australian tradition for 87 years and was born out of a need for lifesaving transfusions,” Ms Lagoudakis said.
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READ NOW“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.”
Ms Lagoudakis said common illnesses such as cancer, road trauma and blood loss during childbirth were among the regular uses of blood.
Call 13 14 95 or visit donateblood.com.au.