Defence personnel roll up their sleeves for annual blood drive

Defence personnel from across Australia are coming together for the 18th consecutive year to support the nation’s blood, plasma and platelets supply through the annual Defence Blood Drive. The Defence Blood Drive highlights Defence’s contribution to national resilience beyond its core operational responsibilities. Army’s Blood Drive Champion Brigadier Dean Thompson, Acting Deputy Chief of Army says the campaign reflects Defence’s commitment to serving the nation. “Service is built on helping others when they need it most. In Army, we recognise the life-saving impact donated blood can have in emergencies, both on the battlefield and in our communities,” Brigadier Thompson said. “By giving blood, we have the opportunity to make a real difference, helping ensure this vital resource is available when it is needed most. One day, the person who relies on that donation could be a loved one, a mate, a fellow soldier, or even ourselves.” Each week, more than 33,000 donations are needed across Australia to support patients undergoing surgery, receiving cancer treatment, managing chronic illness or recovering from trauma. Defence personnel have a long and proud history of supporting Lifeblood, with participation in the Blood Drive providing a practical way for members to contribute to their local communities since 2009. Chief Customer Officer at Lifeblood Cath Stone said the blood drive reflected Defence’s deep commitment to the community it serves. “Each year, Defence employees help save more than 30,000 lives across the country, supporting people in emergencies and trauma, those undergoing cancer treatment, and mothers and babies in childbirth,” Cath said. “As one of the nation’s largest and longest-running blood drives, the campaign helps maintain supplies at critical times, including late winter when colds and flu keep many donors away. On behalf of Lifeblood, and most importantly, the patients in our community who rely on blood and plasma donations, thank you to everyone who donates and helps keep these lifesaving supplies flowing. We simply couldn’t meet the need for blood without you.” The Defence Blood Drive will run from 1 September to 30 November 2026, with members of the Australian Defence Force, Australian public service employees and Defence contractors being encouraged to book a donation through Australian Red Cross Lifeblood centres nationwide. Donations are encouraged from people with O blood types, which play a critical role in maintaining Australia’s blood supply and are consistently in high demand. For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Kym Bergmann at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Group Sales Director Simon Hadfield at [email protected]