Plasma is now the most needed type of blood donation in Australia, with a record 18,000 bags required every week to help patients in need.
Despite this, fewer than one per cent of Australians donate plasma, even though more than 10 million are eligible.
Australia is among the top three users of plasma medications per capita in the world, with demand soaring — particularly in children’s hospitals, where 45,000 plasma medications and transfusions are needed each year.
The call for donors comes as Shepparton Donor Centre celebrates 10 years of collecting life-saving blood and plasma.
Since opening in 2015, the centre has recorded more than 37,000 blood and 50,000 plasma donations, helping to save over 250,000 lives.
Kialla local Michael Downie, who has made over 300 donations, said giving blood had long been a part of his life.
“I started donating when I was in the Army Reserves more than 30 years ago, I do it to serve the community — and it just feels good,” he said.
Lifeblood spokesperson Shae Burns encouraged locals to book one of the 100 plasma appointments available this week.
“If you’ve ever thought about donating, this is the perfect time,” she said.
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