Driving plasma donations

This year’s Defence Blood Drive kicked off on September 1, marking the 18th consecutive year personnel have banded together to support the community by contributing to the nation’s blood, plasma and platelets supplies. 

Defence has a long and proud history of supporting Australian Red Cross Lifeblood. CAF AIRMSHL Stephen Chappell said the Defence Blood Drive is Australia’s longest running blood drive. 

“This is a chance for ADF, APS and our Defence industry colleagues to roll up their [sleeves] for Australia,” AIRMSHL Chappell said.

Lifeblood spokesperson Sally Deveson said the 2026 drive places particular emphasis on plasma donations, with demand continuing to grow across Australia. 

“Australia needs around 33,000 donations every week to meet demand and Lifeblood needs more than 1.7 million donations every year to meet demand,” Ms Deveson said.

“We’re urging Defence donors to look beyond traditional whole-blood donations and consider donating plasma, the blood component now driving the fastest growth in demand across Australia’s healthcare system.”

Plasma is used to create 18 different life-saving and life-changing therapies. It supports Australians living with immune deficiencies, neurological conditions, clotting disorders, burns and a range of other serious medical conditions. Many rely on plasma-derived medicines for life.

With a growing population, Australia’s need for plasma also continues to rise. 

“The goal for plasma is continually moving and growing exponentially by about 6 per cent every year,” Ms Deveson said.

Because plasma donors receive their red cells back, they can donate significantly more frequently than whole blood donors, who are on a 12-week cycle.

“A plasma or platelet donation takes about 45 minutes and can be given as often as every two weeks,” Ms Deveson said. 

That means that a plasma donor could make up to seven donations throughout the drive, maximising their contribution.

APS staff and ADF personnel are able to donate on work time, where operationally feasible, making participation easier for both experienced and first-time donors.

Donations can be booked through the Lifeblood website, on the Lifeblood app or by calling 13 14 95. Through the online booking system, you can also select your preferred Defence team: Air Force, Navy, Army or Defence public servants. 

Visit the Lifeblood website to find a donor centre near you.

The 2026 Defence Blood Drive will run until November 30.