All Australians are being asked to start 2018 by giving the gift of life, by discussing their organ and tissue donation wishes with family and friends and joining the Australian Organ Donor Register.
Federal Member for Flinders, Greg Hunt MP, said almost anyone can become a registered donor.
“I’m calling on all Australians to make this your New Year’s resolution,” said Minister Hunt.
“When you’re together with family this year, discuss your organ and tissue donation wishes with them, then go online and join the Australian Organ Donor Register.
“Instant online registration takes only a minute but can make a lifetime of difference to up to 10 people. This is surely one of the most amazing gifts that anyone can give this year.”
Minister Hunt said it was time to bust the myths that people can be too old, too young or not healthy enough to become donors.
“While age and medical history are considered, no one should assume they’re unsuitable to give the gift of life,” he said.
“Many people in their 70s and 80s have saved the lives of others through organ and tissue donation.”
The Minister responsible for organ and tissue donation, Ken Wyatt AM, said it was rare for a family to decline the opportunity of a relative becoming an organ donor when their loved one was a registered donor and had discussed their commitment with family members.
“Registration counts, with nine in ten Australian families agreeing to allow organ donation where their loved one was a registered donor,” the Minister said.
“Organ donation is a precious gift that is still too rare. Many people don’t realise that only around 2% of deaths in hospitals occur in the specific circumstances where organ donation can be considered. That was only around 1200 cases last year.”
For instant online registration, enter “donatelife” into your web search engine which directs you straight to https://register.donatelife.gov.au