Media Centre

Welcome to the Stem Cell Donors Australia Media Centre. This page is a central resource for media professionals looking to understand our work, the challenges we face, and the life-saving impact of stem cell transplants. We are committed to providing transparent, up-to-date information and inspiring action to strengthen our donor registry.

If you would like to speak to someone from the team, media enquiries can be directed to Kate Levy on 0416 294 474 or at klevy@stemcelldonors.org.au.

Key messages for media

  • What are stem cell transplants and why are unrelated donors needed?
    Stem cell transplants are critical treatments for many patients with blood cancers and disorders and are often their best hope for survival. A transplant relies on healthy stem cells being donated by someone who is the patient’s genetic match and in many cases by an unrelated, volunteer donor from the general public.
  • Australia’s shortage of stem cell donors
    Australia has one of the lowest donor pools among comparable nations. This shortfall means that we rely heavily on overseas donors, and even then, many patients are unable to find a match. Without a transplant, patients can be at risk of dying.
  • The importance of a diverse, young donor registry
    Our registry must not only have a high number of young donors—those aged 18-35—but also reflect the rich diversity of Australia’s population. This ensures we have the best possible matches for all patients in need.
  • Who can register as a donor
    To join the registry, you must be aged between 18 and 35 years (donors remain on the registry until they are 60) and be eligible for a Medicare card. For the full list of eligibility requirements, please visit our FAQs.
  • How donors can register
    By ordering a free at-home cheek swab via our website, stemcelldonors.org.au, or join when next donating blood at Lifeblood.

Supporting statistics

  • Approximately 1,200 Australian patients search for a donor each year, with this number increasing annually.
  • Over 145,000 Australians live with a blood cancer or disorder; many will require a transplant to survive.
  • There are just over 165,000 donors on the registry, yet only 45% are considered ideal (aged 18-35).
  • The Australian Government’s Clinical Advisory Group recommends recruiting 40,000 new donors every year to meet patient needs.
  • In 2024, 20,000 new donors were recruited to the registry.

Media call to action

We encourage media outlets to include a call to action in their stories. Please urge Australians aged 18-35 to learn more about the donor registry and consider joining. For further details, visit stemcelldonors.org.au.

Spokespeople available

  • Lisa Smith, CEO (Sydney-based):
    Lisa can provide expert commentary on strategic needs, key statistics, and the overall impact of our work.
  • Garth Healey, Chief Operating Officer and WMDA Board Member (Sydney-based)
    Garth can speak to the logistics of stem cell donation, from collection to delivery. He also provides expert insight into the international donor landscape and how Australia compares to global best practices.
  • Kate Levy, Donor Recruitment Lead (Sydney-based):
    Kate is well-placed to offer insights into donor experiences, dispel common donation myths, and discuss the urgent need for more donors.
  • Dr Jeff Szer, Expert Medical Spokesperson (Melbourne-based):
    Dr Szer is available for detailed discussions on the medical aspects of stem cell transplants and donor matching.

 

If you would like to speak to someone from the team, media enquiries can be directed to Kate Levy on 0416 294 474 or at klevy@stemcelldonors.org.au.