Increase compensation for plasma donors in Australia

The issue

I used to donate plasma regularly in the USA, earning around $80–100 per donation, with the option to donate twice a week. For me — as a student and someone navigating periods of unstable work — that meant more than $800 a month in essential income. It was a practical, reliable way to support myself while contributing to a critical part of the health system.

After moving to Australia, I was shocked to learn that Australia imports roughly $600 million worth of plasma‑derived products from the USA every year. In other words, our health system depends heavily on plasma collected from paid American donors — while Australian donors receive no compensation at all.

This raises a simple, fair question: if Australia relies so heavily on plasma, why aren’t local donors recognised or compensated for the same contribution?

Fair compensation would:

  • increase Australia’s domestic plasma supply
  • reduce reliance on expensive imports
  • support people facing financial hardship, underemployment, or full‑time study
  • acknowledge the time and effort donors give to help save lives
  • Australia needs a transparent, modern approach that reflects the real value of plasma donation and aligns with international standards.

I’m calling on the Australian Government and plasma collection agencies to review and update donor compensation so Australians are fairly recognised for their contribution to the health system.

Sign this petition to support fair compensation for plasma donors in Australia and ensure their contribution is valued.

 

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The issue

I used to donate plasma regularly in the USA, earning around $80–100 per donation, with the option to donate twice a week. For me — as a student and someone navigating periods of unstable work — that meant more than $800 a month in essential income. It was a practical, reliable way to support myself while contributing to a critical part of the health system.

After moving to Australia, I was shocked to learn that Australia imports roughly $600 million worth of plasma‑derived products from the USA every year. In other words, our health system depends heavily on plasma collected from paid American donors — while Australian donors receive no compensation at all.

This raises a simple, fair question: if Australia relies so heavily on plasma, why aren’t local donors recognised or compensated for the same contribution?

Fair compensation would:

  • increase Australia’s domestic plasma supply
  • reduce reliance on expensive imports
  • support people facing financial hardship, underemployment, or full‑time study
  • acknowledge the time and effort donors give to help save lives
  • Australia needs a transparent, modern approach that reflects the real value of plasma donation and aligns with international standards.

I’m calling on the Australian Government and plasma collection agencies to review and update donor compensation so Australians are fairly recognised for their contribution to the health system.

Sign this petition to support fair compensation for plasma donors in Australia and ensure their contribution is valued.

 

The Decision Makers

Mark Butler
Minister for Health and Aged Care
Hon Ged Kearney MP
Hon Ged Kearney MP
Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care

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Petition created on 16 February 2026