DonateLife

Thank you

To the generous Australians and their families who saved and transformed th lives of people needing a transplant through organ and tissue donation in 2018. We also acknowledge the dedication and commitment of our donation and transplantation specialist. Transplantation, and its life-changing benefits, would not be possible without this shared commitment to donation.

Organ and tissue donation in Australia

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Australia leads the world for successful organ and tissue transplants.
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9 out of 10 families uphold a person's decision to donate when that person is a registered donor.
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More than 1,400 Australians are currently waitlisted for an organ transplant.

Read the latest facts

Frequently asked questions

What is organ and tissue donation?

Organ donation is a life-saving and life-transforming medical process.

Which organs and tissues can be removed?

Organs that can be transplanted include the heart, lungs, liver, kidneys and pancreas.

Who can become an organ and tissue donor?

Almost everyone can help others through organ and tissue donation.

What is the difference between organ and tissue donation?

A far greater number of people have the opportunity to donate tissue for transplantation.

Why do people need transplants?

People who need an organ transplant are very ill or dying because an organ is failing.

How long do people wait for transplants?

Waiting times are usually between six months and four years, but there are cases where the recipient must wait even longer.

What is 'living donation'?

You can donate a kidney or part of your liver while you are still alive and healthy

What is paired kidney exchange?

Most kidney donation happens between people who already know each other. But sometimes it can be difficult to find a good match Their blood types have to correspond and their tissue must be compatible.

Is organ and tissue donation against my religion?

The uncertainty about whether someone's culture or faith supports organ and tissue donation can stop people from deciding about donation or talking about it with loved ones.