Red Cross Donor centres, including Craigieburn and Bundoora, need an additional 800 donations through the Christmas period.
Australian Red Cross Lifeblood is encouraging Australians to give the gift of life this Christmas by rolling up a sleeve and donating blood or plasma, with most donors needed between December 18 and January 7.
In particular, those with A and O blood types are encouraged to donate.
These are in high demand for patients because they make up more than 80 per cent of the population.
Lifeblood spokesperson Genevieve Dobson said in the season for giving, a life-saving donation could be the greatest gift.
“Every 18 seconds, someone somewhere in Australia will need blood or plasma,” she said.
“Donating blood and plasma doesn’t cost anything, but for a patient it is life-changing. For some, it could mean spending another Christmas with family and friends. For others, it will be the key to a fuller life.
“With one in three Aussies needing blood or blood products in their lifetime, our message this Christmas is to give a gift you know is at the top of someone’s wish list.
“We’re urging Australians to book a donation this festive season and make a huge difference to someone who needs it.”
People who donate throughout the month of December will receive a limited-edition “Australiana” Christmas-inspired bandage designed by Melbourne-based artist Madeleine Stamer.
“My bandage design literally says thank you”, Ms Stamer said.
“As we inch to the end of another year, it’s my way of saying thank you to fellow donors and thank you to the wonderful caring staff who always make me feel at ease when giving blood.”
To book, visit lifeblood.com.au or via the Donate Blood app or call 13 14 95.
