🩸 Who Can Donate Blood in Australia? Eligibility Explained Simply

Are you thinking about giving blood in Australia but unsure if you're eligible? You’re not alone. Every day, thousands of Australians consider becoming blood donors—but many are confused by the rules.

The good news is: most healthy adults can donate, and Lifeblood makes the process safe and easy.

This post breaks down exactly who can and cannot donate blood in Australia — in simple, clear terms.

✅ Basic Requirements to Donate Blood in Australia

To donate whole blood with Lifeblood, you must:

• Be aged 18 to 75 years old

• Weigh at least 50 kg

• Be in good general health

• Have an acceptable haemoglobin (iron) level

• Have not donated in the past 12 weeks

These rules help protect you and the recipient.

🔍 What Will Be Checked Before You Donate?

Before donating, you’ll complete a confidential health questionnaire and have a brief check-up. The nurse will ask about:

• Current illness or fever

• Recent travel to malaria-risk countries

• Tattoos or piercings (within the last 4 months)

• Recent surgeries or medications

• Lifestyle risk factors

Note: You can check in advance using Lifeblood’s online eligibility tool.

🚫 Who Cannot Donate Blood in Australia?

You cannot donate blood if you:

• Are feeling unwell on donation day

• Have or had hepatitis B, C, or HIV

• Have had certain types of cancer

• Are pregnant or recently gave birth

• Had a tattoo or piercing in the last 4 months

• Used needles for non-medical drugs

• Visited high-risk malaria countries recently

• Are anaemic or have low iron levels

These rules help keep the blood supply safe.

👩‍⚕️ Special Cases

🕐 How Often Can You Donate?

• Whole blood – every 12 weeks

• Plasma – every 2 weeks

• Platelets – every 2 to 4 weeks

❤️ Why Check Eligibility?

• Protects your health during donation.

• Ensures blood is safe for patients.

• Prevents unnecessary waste (ineligible blood is discarded)

📞 What to Do If You’re Not Sure

Use the Lifeblood Eligibility Tool:
👉 check Eligibility here

Or call 13 14 95 for personalised help.

✅ Final Thoughts: You Might Be a Lifesaver

If you meet the eligibility criteria, you’re perfectly positioned to save lives. One donation can save life up to 3 people.

Don’t wait—check your eligibility and book today.

👉 Visit: lifeblood