This petition urges the Australian Organ and Tissue Authority (OTA), in partnership with the Australian Transplantation Society and state and territory health services, to urgently review the current paediatric eligibility criteria for organ transplants in Australia. We are asking for signatures to urge these governing bodies to adopt the latest evidence-based criteria, so that every Australian child has the best possible chance to survive.

My name is Therese, and this is the story of my niece, Aurelia. She is a bright, shining light in our family, but right now she is fighting for her life. Aurelia is nearly two years old and has been diagnosed with severe Pulmonary Hypertension, a rare and life-threatening condition. Despite everything she faces, she fills every day with courage, lighting up at Miss Rachel, giggling at Bluey, and beaming when she’s surrounded by her loving family. She is full of joy, love, and a beautiful, gentle spirit.

Recently, our family received heartbreaking news: Perth Children’s Hospital has said there is nothing more they can do for Aurelia in Australia, and she has been referred to end of life palliative care. But we cannot accept that this is the end of her story. We are determined to explore international specialists, overseas treatment options, and potential heart-lung transplant lists to give Aurelia every possible chance at life.

It’s hard to believe that in a country as advanced as ours, children like Aurelia might not be given every possible chance to survive. Knowing that other countries offer alternative eligibility criteria raises a heartbreaking question: are Australia’s paediatric transplant rules outdated and in need of urgent review?

Currently, the criteria for paediatric transplants in Australia may exclude children who would otherwise have a chance at life in other countries. This is a reality that no family should have to face.

This petition is a call to action. It is not just about one child; it’s about fairness, about hope, and about ensuring that every child in Australia has access to every possible opportunity for a healthy future. Please join me in advocating for this crucial change. Sign this petition to urge the Australian Organ and Tissue Authority to urgently review the current paediatric transplant eligibility criteria. Aurelia, and countless others like her, deserve nothing less.

Help Peter fight for little Aurelia's life

7news - Family of sick Perth toddler Aurelia Patel in race against clock for treatment