The Australian Government is using National Blood Donor Week to call on people who have recovered from COVID-19 to help in the search for treatments for the virus.
The Government encourages people who have recovered from a confirmed case of COVID-19 to consider donating plasma to assist with the search for suitable treatment options.
People who are healthy and well, meet existing donation criteria, and are at least 28 days past symptoms are encouraged to call to make a time to donate.
National Blood Donor Week is also an opportunity to raise awareness of the work of the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood, and reflect on the generosity of Australia's blood donors.
The Australian Government is committed to providing all Australians with a safe, secure and affordable supply of blood products-saving lives and improving lives. The Government is contributing more than $800 million in 2019-20 to support the national blood supply arrangements.
Every day across the nation, someone, somewhere, needs blood. There are around 500,000 blood donors in Australia, who have made 1.5 million donations in the last year. Transfusions of blood and blood products save millions of lives every year across Australia and the world.
A safe, regular blood supply also helps people patients with blood and bone marrow disorders, inherited disorders of haemoglobin and immune deficiency conditions.
It can also provide critical support for people with traumatic injuries in emergencies, disasters and accidents, and patients undergoing advanced medical and surgical procedures.
Australia's blood supplies remain strong and have not been impacted by the COVID-19 health emergency. This is a great outcome.
Blood donations are a critical part of Australia's world class health system.
The Australian Government thanks the 1.5 million Australians who donate each year. Their generosity ensures individuals and communities have access to safe and quality-assured blood and blood products in both normal and emergency situations.
