The Australian Islamic Medical Association (AIMA) launched its annual blood donation campaign on November 28, 2025, resulting in a remarkable nationwide response. In partnership with the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood, more than 40 mosques and Islamic centres across Australia mobilised their congregations to donate blood, coinciding with the Friday Juma prayer.
The initiative spanned all states and territories, reaching communities from capital cities to regional locations such as Bathurst, Townsville, and Launceston. AIMA volunteers collaborated with Lifeblood representatives at numerous sites, guiding first-time donors and answering questions about the donation process.
Across diverse weather conditions—from sunny skies in Western Australia to rain in South Australia—participants arrived eager to contribute. At selected locations, Lifeblood’s female representatives wore custom hijabs in the organisation’s colours as a gesture of respect, further enhancing the campaign’s inclusive atmosphere.
Community Voices Highlight the Importance of Donation
During the event at Carlton Mosque in Melbourne, AIMA Victoria President Dr. Mo Awad addressed worshippers, emphasising the life-saving potential of each donation. “One in three Australians need blood in their lifetimes,” he stated. “Imagine your brother, your father, your mother, your sister. If you donate now, inshaAllah that’s a favour you can return to them if they need it.”
For many, this campaign marked the beginning of their journey as blood donors. Abid, an 18-year-old from the Sunshine Coast, registered to donate for the first time, stating, “People need blood, and I think it’s good to give it if you can.”
In Queensland, the Imam of Kuraby Mosque encouraged participation during the khutbah, saying, “One donation can save up to three lives. Allah says whoever saves a life, it’s as if they saved all of humanity.” At the Australian Islamic House in Sydney, a speaker explained to a packed crowd how little blood is taken during a donation and the body’s ability to replenish it quickly. “When you donate, you help people with cancer, with heart issues, kidney issues,” the speaker noted.
In the Australian Capital Territory, Sheikh Hamza at the United Muslims of Canberra also encouraged attendees before personally heading to a mobile blood donation van. “I came here today to support and to help fulfil my duty to donate blood, which is the minimum of what I can do,” he shared. He added that medical professionals advocate for the health benefits associated with blood donation.
A Growing Movement for Change
AIMA National President Dr. Omer Shareef praised the dedication of coordinators, volunteers, and community members. “It is truly heartening to witness these beautiful moments captured across different parts of Australia, especially within our mosques where we are coming together, competing in goodness, serving humanity, and saving lives. This is a powerful reflection of unity in action and faith in motion,” he said.
Since its inception in 2019, when only one mosque participated, AIMA’s blood donation initiative has evolved into a nationwide movement. The campaign aims to promote blood donation among diverse cultural and faith communities, addressing the urgent need for a more representative donor pool that meets the medical requirements of Australia’s multicultural population.
In 2024, the campaign successfully registered 241 new donors, contributing to a total of 820 life-saving donations. First-time donors, particularly from underrepresented ethnic groups, play a vital role in ensuring a safe and compatible blood supply for patients throughout the country.
In recognition of its significant impact, AIMA received commendation from the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood for its contributions to last year’s drive, which notably alleviated a national blood shortage.
The AIMA blood donation campaign exemplifies the power of community engagement and collective action in addressing critical health needs. As more individuals join this movement, the impact on lives across Australia continues to grow, fostering a spirit of generosity and solidarity.
