New Year's Resolution: Become an organ donor

Health Minister Stephen Robertson has urged Queenslanders to consider joining the Australian Organ Donor Register as their New Year’s resolution.

“For many Australians, an organ transplant represents their only hope for an extended life,” Mr Robertson said.

“Australia’s rate of organ donation is one of the lowest in the developed world.

“As a result, hundreds of Australians die each year because a suitable organ cannot be found for them.

“It’s estimated that around 1,700 people are waiting for an organ transplant and while 202 organ donors allowed for 739 transplants to be performed in 2006 this is well below par compared to other developed countries.

“The best way to increase this rate is for more people to join the register and formalise their intent to become an organ donor.

“Joining the register and possibly one day giving the gift of life to someone in genuine need is a very worthy cause and it’s as simple as a few clicks online.”

Mr Robertson said he understood people did not like talking about death, and therefore, organ donation, but it was a decision they should make now.

“Around 5.6 million Australians, including over 850,000 Queenslanders, are registered but considering this is over a quarter of the population, there’s plenty of those over 18 who can build on this total,” he said.

“In 2005, 34 Queenslanders donated organs and 116 Queenslanders received life-saving transplant operations.”

Queenslanders can record their decision to donate organs and tissues for transplantation through the Australian Organ Donor Register by calling 1800 777 203 log on to www.medicareaustralia.gov.au or visit their local Medicare office.

31 December,  2007

MEDIA: Joshua Cooney 3234 1185 or 0409 069 056