Please remember that even blood types which are recorded as SUFFICIENT have a limited shelf life.   In order to maintain these levels, we still require daily donations of EVERY blood type.


It is vital that there are optimal supplies of all blood types at all times.    This ensures that the constant demand for blood and blood products is met.    We encourage you to donate regularly, in the knowledge that your precious gift of blood, will make a difference to more than one person's life.    Your donation may help several different people, including someone undergoing surgery;  an accident victim;  a recipient of an organ or bone marrow transplant;  or a person affected by a blood disease, such as leukaemia or haemophilia.
To check if you are eligible to donate blood, please call 13 14 95.


*     I want to give blood, what do I do?

First of all, call
13 14 95 to make an appointment.    When you call, one of our friendly staff will also ask you a few pre-screening questions, to evaluate whether you meet the main criteria to give blood. Your ultimate eligibility is determined on donation day.

The Medical Questionnaire has to be completed prior to each donation.    It covers health, lifestyle, and medical questions, used to assess your eligibility to donate, and to ensure the donation is safe for both you and for recipients.    All information provided is strictly confidential.


Donation Day

The Blood Service wants you to have a safe and pleasant experience when donating blood.    Please ensure that you
drink plenty of fluids (at least four glasses) in the hours leading up to your donation, and that you eat something healthy and substantial beforehand.


Arrival at the Donor Centre

When you arrive, you will have to show some proof of identification.    Once you are registered, you will be asked to fill out a medical questionnaire.    Remember, if you are 16 or 17 years of age, you must have parental consent (except in Tasmania and the Northern Territory where you are required to be 18 years of age).


Health Check

After you have completed the medical questionnaire, you will have the opportunity to discuss it in greater detail with one of our nurses during a confidential interview.    The nurse will also check your haemoglobin (iron level) and blood pressure, to ensure that you are in a healthy state when you give blood.


Blood donation

The donation generally takes
between 8 and 12 minutes, and you usually donate 470 ml of blood.    Oh yes, the needle.    It really is no big deal  -  pinch the inside of your elbow to feel what it is like.


After the donation

Relax and enjoy the refreshments on offer, and remember to take it easy for the next 24 hours.    Drink lots of fluid, and your blood will be fully restored after 48 hours.


It is recommended that donors avoid vigorous use of their arm for a few hours after donating.    Additionally, alcohol should be avoided for at least eight hours.


Many donors have a feeling of accomplishment and self -satisfaction after the donation.    We're proud of you too.    With every donation, you can save up to three lives, or contribute to 15 different forms of life saving or life improving blood products.


Click here for more information on donor well being.


How long does the whole donation process take?

Differing from centre to centre, the whole process from entering until leaving, allowing sufficient time for relaxation, will take between 45 to 90 minutes.    So it is best to allow 90 minutes for your first donation, and you will see from there.


Donor safety

Everything the Blood Service uses is sterile, used only once, and then disposed of safely.    Australia has one of the safest systems for collecting and distributing blood in the world.


You can also donate plasma and platelets, click here to find out more.


Blood Donor Eligibility


At the Australian Red Cross Blood Service, our first priority is the health and wellbeing of all people.    Accordingly, we have in place guidelines that ensure you, and the recipient of your generous gift, are kept in the best possible health at all times.

There are many reasons to defer a donor, either temporarily or permanently.    Below you will find some common reasons.

Before every donation, donors have to fill in a confidential donor questionnaire, and have a short interview with a nurse, to determine eligibility.

If you are in doubt about your eligibility to donate, do not defer yourself, but call
13 14 95 to ask one of our friendly staff for more information.

Becoming a blood donor

A blood donor must be in general good health, weigh between 45kg - 120kg and be between 16 (18 in NT and Tasmania) and 70 years of age.    If you are between 16 and 18 years, you will also need parental consent, except in the ACT.    If you require clarification on your weight, please ask to speak to a Medical Officer when phoning 13 14 95.

Haemoglobin levels

From January 1, 2005 the Australian Red Cross Blood Service amended its blood donor eligibility guidelines.    The Haemoglobin (Hb) threshold for whole blood donors increased by 2 g/L, which will ensure that the small temporary drop in Hb experienced after blood donation, does not allow donors to fall below normal levels.

A Haemoglobin count will be done before your donation, to ensure your eligibility.

Please click here for more information.

Reasons for temporary deferrals

There are many reasons for temporary deferrals, these are some of the more common reasons.   You will be temporary deferred if you:

• are pregnant or breast feeding

• have a cold, flu, sore throat or diarrhoea

• have taken antibiotics in the last 5 days

• had dental work (fillings/cleaning in the last 24 hours, and 1 week for root canal treatment)


Reasons for 12 months deferrals

You will not be able to give blood for a period of 12 months after you:

• had a tattoo

• had a blood transfusion

• had any piercing (except ear piercing with a disposable needle)

• have been in prison or lock up

• had male to male sex

• had sex with a prostitute

• had a partner with hepatitis B or C


Reasons for permanent deferrals

Unfortunately, there are some circumstances that will prevent people from giving blood.    You will be permanently deferred if you:

• lived in the UK between 1980-1996 for a cumulative period of 6 months or more
• are HIV positive
• injected drugs not prescribed by a doctor or dentist

• have hepatitis B or C
• had open heart surgery


*     Donor Wellbeing


Blood donors are our greatest asset.    We are therefore very anxious to ensure that you have a positive experience when you give us your blood and time.    Here are some tips on what you can do to help your body prepare for the donation, and to recuperate after the donation.


Before your donation


You should make sure that you drink plenty of water, and have something substantial to eat, before you donate.


Water and juices will help against dehydration, and will increase your blood flow during the donation, reducing the actual bleeding time.


Eating something substantial and healthy before the donation, dramatically reduces the risk of reactions.


After your donation


Continue to drink lots of fluid, and avoid drinking vast amounts of alcohol.    Water and juices will help replacing some of your lost fluids.    Additionally, don't get involved in any strenuous activities for at least twelve hours after being bled.    Also avoid using your punctured arm to carry heavy materials.


We advise further, to keep your arm clean, and to dry it properly after washing, to help the healing.    Usually, the dressing can be taken off after six hours.    If your arm should start bleeding, raise it above your head, and hold something very firmly over the needle puncture for at least 10 minutes.


Bruising of the arm can occur.    In case excessive bruising appears, please notify the Blood Service, and if necessary, see your doctor.    Usually, the bruising will fade and disappear over a period of days.


The puncture usually heals quickly, but if you have any pain, redness, swelling or discharges, please contact the Blood Service.


Between your donations


We aim to keep you feeling good and healthy.    A healthy lifestyle, which includes healthy food and exercise, is beneficial for everyone, but especially for you as a blood donor.


One important part of a healthy and agile lifestyle, is to have sufficient haemoglobin and blood iron levels.    Low haemoglobin levels, reduce your oxygen carrying capacity.


Click here to view details on the importance of iron, haemoglobin and some great iron-rich recipes from Australian Red Cross Blood Service and Nutrition Australia.


*     The Benefits of Giving Blood


Giving blood is a great thing to do.    By making a blood donation, you are not only helping save the lives of people you will never meet;   you're also doing yourself a good turn.


A regular check-up

Each time you make a donation, we check your blood pressure and haemoglobin (an indication of your iron level).    This is an easy way to keep track of your health, as any changes to your blood pressure or haemoglobin, are picked up during our screening process.    Our staff can advise you about changes you can make to your diet, or refer you on to a medical practitioner, to have any changes checked out in greater detail.


Looking after your heart

Some studies have shown that regular blood donation, can help prevent the build-up of iron in the body over time, reducing the strain this places on major organs, including the heart.    The benefits are thought to be most pronounced, in middle-aged men, and amongst people prone to haemachromotosis.    We also think that regular acts of kindness, like giving blood, are good for anyone's heart.


A donation you can afford

Many of us like to feel part of the community, and contribute to charities whenever we can.    It's not always possible to give money, even when the need is great.    One way you can really make a difference to your community, without going to great expense, is to give blood!


Who does your blood help?


There are many different uses for your blood donation.    Your blood might be made into lifesaving or life improving medication for people with cancer, anaemia, haemophiliacs or ill newborn babies just to name a few.


It could also be used for emergency or elective surgery, and help people with organ or heart diseases, burn victims or accident victims.


By separating whole blood into its components, it is possible to use a single donation for the treatment of several patients.


Each donation you give is very precious;  it helps not only people in emergencies, but also helps those who rely on regular transfusions to survive.


Click here to see more detail about how your blood is used.

Blood Recipients

Every day, thousands of people rely on donated blood.


*     About Plasma and Platelet Donation


What is involved in donating plasma?

Blood is composed of a mixture of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets suspended in a fluid called plasma.    Plasma contains very important proteins, nutrients and clotting factors, which help to prevent or stop bleeding.    Plasma is the most versatile component of our blood, allowing as many as 13 products to be made from plasma donations.


Plasma donations are made through a process called Apheresis' (pronounced a-fur-resis).


In order to become a plasma donor, you need to give at least one whole blood donation in the last 12 months.    Similar to whole blood donation, plasma donors are required to complete the Donor Questionnaire, interview and haemoglobin (finger prick) test.


We take around 650mL of plasma in the collection, which is equivalent to the amount of plasma collected from 3 whole blood donations.


We recommend you allow 1.5 hours for the process, as you will need to fill in paperwork, and take some time to relax after your donation.    The actual donation period is around 40 minutes.


What happens during the donation?


During a plasma donation, whole blood is drawn from one arm, into a sterile collection kit inside a cell separating machine.    The machine separates the blood, so that only plasma is collected.    The other blood components (red and white cells, and platelets) are returned to you through the same line.


Because your red cells are returned to you when you give plasma donation, you are able to donate every two to three weeks.    You are under no obligation to continue as a plasma donor, and can return to donating whole blood at any time.


The plasma donation process is extremely safe, and carried out by expert trained staff.


For more information on becoming a plasma donor, please phone 13 14 95.


What are platelets?

Our blood is made up of several components  -  red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets and plasma.    Each component has a special function.    Platelets are tiny cells that initiate the formation of blood clots, and reduce blood loss from wounds.    If a blood vessel is damaged, platelets clump together to help "plug the leak".


Why do we need platelet donations?


A platelet transfusion can be the difference between life and death.  Diseases such as leukaemia, and medical treatments like chemotherapy, can decrease a person's platelet count.    If the number of platelets becomes too low, spontaneous bleeding can occur.    Even a small amount of bleeding can be dangerous, particularly if it occurs in the brain.    There are also times when platelets may be needed for accident victims.


The demand for platelets is ongoing.    However, the need becomes more acute, around long weekends, and holidays such as Christmas and Easter.    The limited shelf-life of platelets (5 days), together with fewer collection days before and after public holidays, place extreme pressure on our "bank" of platelets.


Australian Red Cross Blood Service is seeking people willing to be called in for platelet donation, at critical times, when our normal platelet stocks are low.

How are platelets collected?

A normal whole blood donation contains a small amount of platelets, which can be separated into a "platelet concentrate".    However, 4-6 times as many platelets can be derived from just plateletpheresis donation.


"Plateletpheresis" (pronounced: platelet-fur-resis) is the process of collecting platelets, using a special cell-separator or "apheresis" machine.    The machine spins the blood, to separate the platelets from the other components.    The platelets are collected, and the remaining components returned to the donor.


Inside the cell-separator is a closed, sterile system of plastic bags and tubing, that is used only once, and then disposed of after use.


There is no risk of infection to you.    The process is repeated until enough platelets are collected.    This usually takes just over an hour.    You can sit back in comfort throughout the procedure, and read a book, or just relax.


Who can donate platelets?


Registered whole blood and plasmapheresis donors can donate platelets, as long as they don't have any illness, or take medication that may affect their platelets.


Can I donate?


Generally speaking, if you:

  • are aged between 16 years (or 18 in Tas and NT) and 70 years;

  • weigh more than 45kgs;  and

  • are feeling healthy and well;

Chances are, you can be a blood donor!


Some illnesses or activities can affect whether or not you can give blood safely.    Here are some general guidelines, and for any further information, please call 13 14 95.    If you have donated blood and become ill, please call us as soon as possible.


Antibiotics  -  wait for five days after you finish the course.

Body piercing  -  if performed with clean, single-use (disposable) equipment, you can donate plasma only for 12 months.    Otherwise, you will need to wait for 12 month before donating.

Chicken Pox  -  you will need to wait until you are well, and all spots are clean and dry.

Colds  -  wait until you have recovered.

Coldsore  -  you will be able to donate when sores are clean and dry.

Diabetic  -  if you are diet controlled, or take medication orally, you should be able to donate.    If you are on Insulin therapy, or if your diabetes has led to other complications, your ability to donate may be affected.    Please call 13 14 95 for more information.

Dental Treatment  -  for treatment such as cleaning, fillings and braces, you will need to wait for 24 hours.    Please call 13 14 95 for limitations that apply for other treatments.

Diarrhoea  -  you will need to wait for up to four weeks after recovery.    Call 13 14 95 for more details.

Drug use (recreational)  -  you may still be able to donate blood, as long as you are not under the influence at the time.    This will depend on what drug is taken, and how often it is used.    Please call 13 14 95 for further information.

Ear piercing  -  if performed with clean, single-use (disposable) equipment, you can donate after 24 hours.    Otherwise you will need to wait 12 months.

Glandular fever  -  you will need to wait until you have recovered.

Tattoos  -  you will need to wait 12 months before donating.


*     What happens when I donate Blood?


Want to donate?   You must:


  • be 16 years or older (in Tas& NT you need to be 18)

  • weight at least 45 kilos

  • be in good health

  • be feeling fit and healthy. For more information about illnesses and activities that might affect your ability to donate click here.


Donating Blood


Drink and Eat


For the 2-4 hours before you donatem you need to have a good meal, and drink lots of water.    This will help the process of donating, and help you feel good afterwards.


Arrive and answer some questions


You will be asked to fill out a questionnaire that asks you general questions about your health.    All the answers to these questions are completely confidential.    They will help us to make sure it is safe for you to donate, and for someone to receive your blood.


Chat to a Nurse


A nurse will chat with you about your questionnaire, and answer any questions you have.    Your blood pressure will be taken, and your finger will be pricked ,to test the iron levels in your blood.    This test makes sure that you are able to donate safely.


Give up your blood


You will then be taken to our donation area to lie on one of our comfy beds, while is your blood is taken.    This bit takes only 5-10 minutes.


Chill out


Relax in our refreshment area, and have a snack and drink on us.    You will need to rest for about 15 minutes before you leave.    Congratulate yourself  -  in just one hour of your time, you have helped up to three people!


Your blood is tested


To protect people who will receive your blood, your donation is tested for HIV 1 & 2, Hep B & C, HTLV 1 & 2, and Syphilis.


Save a life…or maybe 3!


Due to modern processing, we can separate blood into its various components, and make up to 20 different products.    This means every donation can help as many as 3 different people.


Your blood donation WILL go far… you will be someone's hero!


*     Get Involved


Be a hero!…


Becoming a regular blood donor means that you can be a hero to up to 3 different people, every time you donate blood.    Each donation you give is separated in to 3 parts  -  red blood cells, plasma and platelets.    These components can be given to 3 different seriously ill people, to save their lives, or improve their quality of life.


It takes only a short time to make a big difference.    Check out our donation page to get a feel for what will happen when you donate for the first time.    You can also get involved by becoming a youth ambassador, and organising a blood drive at your school or uni.

To make an appointment to donate blood, call 13 14 95 or sign up online.    If you live in NSW, QLD, WA or VIC, you will need to download the Parent Consent Form from the links and download section.    Frequently asked questions and answer sheet for youth donations is also available to download.


Top Ten Reasons to Donate Blood


1) You will get free snacks after donating.

2) You might be able to get some time off school.

3) It's quick and easy.    It doesn't take long, and you can donate at a Donor Centre, or at one of our Mobile Units.

4) You can spare it!    Most people have got enough blood to spare … but there are lots more people that need it.

5) You will get lots of sympathy from your friends and family when they see the band-aid.

6) Only 3% of the population give blood regularly.    Become one of an exclusive group.

7) Impress your friends by saving lives!    Who does my blood help?

8) 80% of the population will need blood or blood products at some stage in their lives.    That means that someone close to you (or even yourself) at some stage, may rely on blood and blood products for survival.

9) You will be someone's hero  -  you may help a newborn, a child, a mother, an accident victim, or someone with cancer, get another chance at life.

10) It feels great to donate!


Top Ten Excuses Not To Donate Blood


1) I'm scared of needles…   

There are not many people that LIKE needles!    However, most people report that all you feel is an initial pinch, and once the needle is in, you won't feel anything.    Once you have donated, you'll wonder why you did not do it sooner!


2) I'm too busy.
The whole process takes only an hour, and the actual blood donation takes around 10 minutes.    An hour of your time will allow an accident victim, a premature baby, or a cancer patient, to live.


3) There always seems to be enough blood…
Blood is needed every single day of the year.    Blood does not only help accident victims.    Many people with serious illnesses, such as cancer, need a constant supply of blood for their treatment.    Remember…  the need for blood never takes a holiday!


4) I have already given once, isn't that enough?
No, we need you to come back.    You can safely donate blood every 12 weeks.


5) I am scared that I will catch something.
Australia is one of the safest places in the world to donate blood.   Our equipment is sterile, and we use the needles once, before we throw them away.


6) You don't need my blood  -  it's not rare.
There are 8 different blood types, and all are in demand.    If you have a rare type, that means there are less donors who can give it.    If you have a common type, there are more people who need it.


7) I don't have any blood to spare.
Most adults have plenty to spare.    When you give blood, you donate less than 10% of your total blood volume, and the body replaces this amount within 24-48 hours.


8) I don't want to feel weak afterwards.
If you are healthy, and have had plenty to drink, and something to eat before you donate, you will be unlikely to feel any different afterwards.    Your body will replace the volume you donate within 24-48 hours, so you can even play your favourite sports within a couple of days!


9) They won't want MY blood  -  I've had glandular fever, chicken pox, suffer from heart problems etc…
Never assume that you can't give blood!    It is always best to check with us, if you are unsure, by calling 13 14 95 and speaking with one of our doctors.


10) I'm too young to give blood.
You can start saving lives at the age of 16 in most States (you need to be 18 in NT and TAS).    Why not get your school involved in this essential community service?


*     Corporate Donations Program


Why you should support us


Why support the Blood Service


  • This is a great opportunity to be associated with one of the world's largest Humanitarian Organisations - Australian Red Cross;

  • You can generate corporate goodwill through involvement in an invaluable community based activity;

  • What better way to increase team morale, teamwork and motivation?    Your staff will feel part of a team working to make a difference!;

  • Staff benefit personally by having a regular free health check;

  • You can promote good 'organisation self-esteem', demonstrating strong values by doing something for others;

  • Gain exposure as a good corporate citizen, through community involvement with a life saving Organisation.    You have the potential to improve corporate image, brand recognition and brand reputation.


What can the Blood Service give back to your Organisation?


  • We'll recognise your Organisation where possible on our in-centre honour boards, and provide you with recognition awards, such as plaques and certificates;

  • You'll have the chance to be publicly recognised as one of our generous supporters, through media, advertising and public events.

Why support a not-for profit organisation?


  • 75% of customers are more likely to choose your brand over another equal in price and quality, because yours is associated with a charitable cause;

  • Customers identify with, and are more brand loyal, to Organisations that demonstrate social responsibility;

  • You can increase brand equity and customers' perceptions of quality, by linking with a cause customers care about;

  • You'll be boosting your customers' overall evaluation of your Organisation, and its products and services;

  • Your employees will feel a stronger sense of loyalty to your Organisation, which can lead to increased productivity, reduced turnover, and organisational citizenship behaviour;

  • You'll be saving lives  -  not just at the Blood Service, but in the minds and hearts of your customers and employees.


How you can support us


What is the Blood Service's Corporate Program?


Our corporate program provides opportunities for employees from your Organisation to donate blood with convenience and support.    The program is currently coordinated on a state-by-state basis.


Will it cost the Organisation anything?


Participating in our corporate program is absolutely free.    We are not asking for donations of anything but blood.    However, we do ask you to support Australian Red Cross Blood Service, by allowing your employees to attend appointments during work hours.


What does a coordinator do?


It helps your Organisation (and us!) if you nominate a coordinator who can act as our central contact.    This person's key role is to encourage and organise employees to donate blood.    Don't worry though, we'll provide you with all the support you need to get started.


OK, sign us up!


To kick-start your Organisation's support of the Blood Service,
click here and sign up for your local corporate program.    Simply complete our online Registration Form, and we'll be in touch to discuss your involvement!


Courtesy Bus Service


We can provide transport to and from our Donor Centres, via our Courtesy Bus Service.    To find out more, or to make a booking, please call 9840 5525 for the Parramatta Courtesy Bus, 9229 4553 for the Clarence St Courtesy Bus and 0409 044 268 for the Liverpool and Nepean service.


Large Mobile Unit


This is a 12 bed set up unit, that visits approximately 30 suburbs in the Sydney area.    This unit visits venues like town halls and RSLs, where people from the local community can donate.    The Large Mobile Unit is booked a year in advance, and visits sites that commit to 3-4 visits a year.    To find out more about the Large Mobile call 9229 4539.


Small Mobile Unit


This is a 6 bed set up, that visits schools and businesses.    The unit needs to be booked at least 3 months in advance, and visits locations that are committed to regular visits from the unit.    It does not visit locations as just a 'one-off'.    To find out more information, please call 9229 4540.


Western Sydney Donormobile


The Donormobile is a self-contained blood collection unit, consisting of 2 interview rooms, 4 donor chairs, a waiting/refreshment area, and a covered outdoor waiting area.    Not unlike a donor centre on wheels, with its spaciousness and start-of-the-art equipment, the unit is of similar size to a semi trailer.    The Donormobile is booked 3-12 months in advance for communities, businesses and schools with more than 300 people.    To find out more information, please call Rebecca Cook on 9840 5530.


Static Sites:


Parramatta Donor Centre, 4 George St Parramatta,
Call Rebekah Gebran on 9840 5525 for all corporate enquiries

Sydney CBD Donor Centre, 153 Clarence St Sydney
Call Hugo Muianga on 9229 4553 for all corporate enquiries

Liverpool Donor Centre, Unit 4/50 Macquarie St Liverpool, and Nepean Donor Centre, Cnr Derby and Parker Sts Nepean Hospital
Call Heather Armstrong on 0409 044 268 for all corporate enquiries.

Chatswood Donor Centre, 1 Spring St Chatswood,
Call Andrew Kilkeary on 9229 4516 for all corporate enquiries


**** Southern Region ****


For Corporate Program information regarding our Albury, Dubbo, Goulburn, Griffith, Orange and Wagga Donor Centres, please contact Ronnie Williams on (02) 4225 0236


**** South Coast *****


Wollongong is serviced by a Mobile Unit and a static site.    For information regarding these services, and the Corporate Program please call Richard Webb on (02) 4225 0232


**** ACT ****

The ACT is serviced by a Mobile Unit, a courtesy bus service and a static site.    For information regarding these services and the Corporate Program, please call Colin Webster on (02) 6206 6026


**** Central Coast and Hunter Region ****


For Corporate Program information regarding our Wyong, Woy Woy, Gosford, Newcastle, Maitland and Cessnock Donor Centres please call Kristen Schiemer on (02) 4907 7743

For general information regarding all Hunter and Central Coast Mobiles, please call Cathy Hurst on (02) 4907 7745


**** North Coast and Northern Region *****


For Corporate Program information regarding our Armidale, Coffs Harbour, Grafton, Kempsey, Lismore, Murwillimbah, Port Macquarie, Tamworth and Taree Donor Centres please call Jemma Falkenmire on 4907 7747


Click here to send an enquiry.


*     Our Services


Every year, thousands of Australians are the recipients of blood and life-giving products, made from donated blood.    Some are victims of accidents, others victims of diseases.    They range from the very old, to babies born with immune deficiency disorders;  from patients undergoing routine surgery, to those battling long-term illness, such as cancer or kidney failure.


All these people rely on the goodwill of voluntary blood donors  -  the unsung heroes of our community.    Less than 3% of Australians give blood regularly.    Yet thanks to their generosity and strong community spirit, Australia is one of the few countries in the world that is mostly self-sufficient in blood and blood products.


Australian Red Cross Blood Service is the national Organisation, responsible for the provision of quality blood products, tissues and related services Australia-wide.    We collect, screen, process and distribute the blood generously donated.    We operate on the principle that blood donated by voluntary donors, should be freely available to all who need it.


In addition to blood collection and distribution, the Blood Service performs other vital functions to help the community:

  • Research & Development
    We conduct and participate in research and development, to expand our knowledge, and to find solutions to improve health and quality of life.    Many of these research activities are conducted in collaboration with hospitals, universities, industry and other research institutes.

  • Bone Marrow Donor Registry
    The Blood Service maintains the Australian Bone Marrow Donor Registry.    This service assists patients in finding a compatible tissue donor, to help them fight diseases for which the transplantation of bone marrow or bloods cells from the placenta or umbilical cord is the only cure.

  • Skin Banks
    In the past, victims of severe burns usually died, especially if the burns covered a large proportion of their body.    Today, many of these patients are able to survive due to the benefits of skin banking.    Many of the skills, knowledge and equipment required for skin banking, are similar to those for collecting, processing and storing blood.    We are able to utilise our experience in these areas, to help bring about major benefits for burns victims.

  • Monitoring Infectious Diseases
    New and emerging viruses pose a threat to blood safety, and the health of patients.    The Donor and Product Safety Group within Australian Red Cross Blood Service, is responsible for monitoring viruses that have the potential to impact on health services in Australia.




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