Give the gift of life this holiday season with new donor centre open in Brunswick

As rates of blood donation lower, Australians are being urged to roll up their sleeves this festive season to save lives and donate much-needed blood, plasma and platelets.

 

Donating is even easier now in Melbourne, with the Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care Ged Kearney MP today opening the first new blood donor centre in 10 years. 

 

Located in Brunswick, the purpose-built centre will boost Australia’s blood supply with 55,000 donations every year to help more than 165,000 people.

 

Blood is needed somewhere in Australia every 18 seconds. We need 1800 people across the country to donate between Boxing Day and 1 January.

 

There is no substitute for blood and every type, every day, is needed to meet the needs of Australian patients who depend on it.

 

This season donor attendance rates at Lifeblood Donor Centres are lower than usual and Australia needs around 33,000 donations every week to meet demand.

 

Giving blood only takes an hour and can save up to three lives. 

 

If you’re between 18 to 75 years old, and you’re feeling well, you may be able to donate blood.

 

To book a donation call 13 14 95, visit lifeblood.com.au or download the Donate Blood app.

 

Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care Ged Kearney MP

 

“I want to thank every Australian who lines up to donate blood, plasma and platelets, at any time of the year.”

 

“It is so important that we boost our blood supply to help more patients across Australia and it’s my pleasure to open the new donor centre in Brunswick today.”

 

“Demand doesn’t stop over the holidays! For those who don’t currently donate, I encourage you to think about giving the gift of life this festive season.”