Successful organ and tissue donation has meant the possibility of a second chance of life and health to many people in our community.
Although some kidney donations can occur with living donors, most organ transplants are only possible when people generously decide that in the event of their death they would like to donate their organs and tissue to help others.
Under current legislation (NSW Human Tissue Act 1983), there is provision on your licence to register to become an organ and tissue donor. Organ and tissue donor information is disclosed to organ donation agencies to facilitate voluntary organ donation. In NSW, LifeGift NSW/ACT provides organ donation services, and is part of the Australian Red Cross Blood Service (ARCBS).
Organ Donors Save Lives, and you can choose all or specific organs and tissue you would like to donate.
Once you have decided to become an organ and/or tissue donor, then it is important to tell your family of your decision.
Remember: You can change your mind about organ and tissue donation at any time. If you have ticked 'NO' in the box on your licence application or renewal form, then you will not be eligible for organ and tissue donation under NSW law. You must let the RTA know that you have changed your mind and fill out an Adjustment of Records form.
Another way to register as an organ or tissue donor is through the Organ Donor Register, which is a national register for Australians and is held by Medicare.
Visit www.organdonor.com.au for detailed information on becoming an organ donor and direct links to the Organ Donor Register, or call 1800 777 203
Visit the Medicare Australia website for more information about the National Organ Donor Register.
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