By the way, this doesn’t mean I’m moving into pasta salad territory (I would never, by the way, with one exception). I am simply sharing the recipes that have the magical ability to instantly transport me to an Italian coastline – something we can all get amongst, surely. From seafood masterpieces to those tossed with summer vegetables, here are seven of the best pasta recipes you’ll want to make all summer long.

Julia Busuttil’s summer seafood pasta

A post shared by Julia Busuttil Nishimura (@juliaostro)

Our ears prick up whenever Julia Busuttil’s name enters the conversation. The home cook-turned-recipe-connoisseur is incapable of creating something that’s not delicious, and this marriage of seafood and spaghetti is no exception.  Double yum.

Pasta Alla Norma

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Take advantage of the abundance of in-season tomatoes and eggplants and whip up Xanthe Gladstone’s take on a classic. It’s a simple sauce, and the longest cooking is reserved for the eggplants which need a moment in the over to get golden. Serve it for Sunday lunch with buffalo mozzarella and something chilled.

Pasta Salad with Peas and Parmesan

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Regardless of what you think of Alison Roman’s cooking, this is the only pasta salad that matters. It makes use of peas, which are in season during summer, and the 1-inch hunk of parmesan on its last legs in your fridge. Serve it as a side, make it the main focus of the meal. Your choice.

Jess Nguyen’s Prawn Linguine

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We are officially in prawn season (although its reaches roaring heights around Christmas time) and while there’s plenty to be said about eating them fresh with your choice of dipping sauce or garnish, arguably one of the best ways to enjoy prawns is in pasta. I love the bisque-like richness of seafood and tomato, and this recipe by Jess Nguyen definitely does the trick. Go on, then.

Carter Were’s Simple Sardine Pasta

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It’s all in the prep with this summer pasta recipe from Carter Were. Packed with five different kinds of herbs, this dish comes together with little effort, but thanks to the presence of tinned sardines, has an umami kick to keep you satisfied.

Spaghetti Alla Nerano

A post shared by Sian Redgrave (@sian_redgrave)

If you joined Stanley Tucci for his food tour through Italy, you’ll remember the actor’s favourite dish eaten in Sorrento. This recipe riffs on that meal, and will restore your appreciation in the humble zucchini, of which there’s plenty to be found in summer.

Danielle Campbell’s Spicy Spaghetti Alla Puttanesca

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If you love a tomato sauce that leans a little on the lighter side, but still packs a salty punch, this Puttanesca is worth a try. Loaded with olives, capers, anchovies, and parsley, this Italian classic is as easy to whip up as it is delicious.

Broccolini pesto pasta

A post shared by Jem Lester (@goodfoodthings_)

If you’re craving pasta, but also in need of a vegetable, look no further. Jem Lester has cooked up the most delicious broccoli pesto, served with chunks of freshly-torn mozzarella. What’s not to love?

If you’re searching for more recipe inspiration, look to our round up of the best vegetarian recipes.

The post 8 delicious pasta recipes you’ll want to make all summer long appeared first on RUSSH.

Green tea has been used as a staple for health in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years thanks to its high levels of antioxidants and its ability to increase qi (the flow of vital energy) in the body. To find out more about the health benefits, the mental effects and history of green tea, we spoke to Tara Lang, Wellness and Health Specialist for X50 Lifestyle. Here, she explains why green tea is more beneficial than other forms of tea and its roots and importance in Chinese Medicine.

What is green tea? How does it differ from other types of tea?

Green tea, surprisingly, like any other tea, comes from the Camellia sinensis plant. Ultimately, the variety of the tea plant and how the tea leaves are processed determines what makes tea “green”. Green tea leaves are harvested and heated— pan fried or steamed—then dried to prevent oxidation. Green tea is considered to have originated in China and possesses significant cultural, medicinal, and spiritual meaning.

Green tea is said to be beneficial for physical health. Why is that?

The many types of green tea offer different benefits. One type of green tea, pu erh cha can is used to reduce cholesterol while oolong cha might be used to help regulate blood pressure. Green tea’s claim to fame though is its high level of polyphenols (antioxidants). We know antioxidants, that protect against oxidation/degradation, to be powerful allies for all things health and beauty.

While modern studies absolutely support health claims including reduced inflammation, brain function, and even cancer-fighting effects, TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) has lauded green tea’s benefits for centuries. In TCM, raw green tea is cooling. The processing of green tea however converts this cooling property into a neutral or warming property. The darker the tea, the more warmth it offers – warmth generally means stimulated circulation, digestion, and so on.

How does this compare to other forms of tea, let’s say black tea?

Though originating from the same species, the processing of the leaves is what sets green and black tea apart. To produce green tea, freshly harvested leaves are immediately steamed to prevent fermentation. The longer the fermentation, the darker the tea. Generally black tea contains lower levels of polyphenols (the good stuff). Green tea also contains less caffeine.

What sorts of benefits might we experience from drinking green tea?

TCM has lauded green tea as a preventative measure against disease for more than 2000 years. Green tea’s potent compounds offer protective antioxidant benefits that range from clearing out heavy foods and toxins and increasing energy and longevity (associated with increased qi in TCM).

Studies have shown green tea to contain active compounds including theanine (calming effect), tryptophan (associated with sleep), lysine (anti-viral), and minerals and trace elements like calcium, magnesium, chromium, manganese, iron, copper, zinc, selenium, sodium, phosphorus, potassium and others. These compounds play crucial and synergistic roles in cellular function – in layman’s terms: overall health and function of cells which determines well-being and beauty.

How much do we need to drink to reap the rewards?

That depends on the person’s tolerance for caffeine, in my opinion. Some say three to five cups per day. But you might want to stick with two if you’re sensitive. “Too much of a good thing” applies in the instance of green tea as well.

Can these benefits extend beyond the physical? Are there mental health benefits to drinking green tea too?

Monks often drink green tea before meditating; it’s said to calm the spirit. Due to green tea’s L-theanine compounds, this makes plenty of sense. L-theanine plays a role in calming anxiety and the production of grounding alpha waves in the brain. It can also increase dopamine and benefit aspects of brain function, including mood. In terms of broader mental health – think clarity, focus, and long term brain health without some of the negative side effects (dehydration, jitters) of coffee.

Can green tea aid the body in weight management?

Studies do point to the tea leaf’s impact on obesity and diabetes. To keep it simple, yes, the consumption of green tea may help reduce body weight, mainly body fat. In terms of weight management, incorporating iced green tea into your diet to replace juices, soft drinks (or whatever your vice is), not only gives you a kick of antioxidants and the benefits associated, but also reduces your calorie intake. My recommendation is the X50 Fresh Tea, which is a powdered green tea with added deep-sea Marine Collagen for skin, hair and nails and Chaga and Lion’s Mane Mushrooms to help improve gut microbiota, boosts beneficial bacteria, digestion and absorption of nutrients. Just add cold water and you’re good to go.

Are there any misconceptions around green tea?

Perhaps that most notable misconception is that green tea is “different” to other teas. It’s quite fascinating that green tea’s origins are the same as any other tea. I admire how culturally significant green tea is in Chinese and Japanese culture. The ritual around green tea has tremendous meaning. I might read up on that, if rituals have a place in your daily practice.

I would also suggest buying the best quality tea you can find – stay clear of your average tea bag from the supermarket. Green tea is like wine – the complexities around the processing and care of the tea leaves makes for very different drinking experiences. The more care you take in sourcing, the more appreciation you have, and likely the more benefits you’ll reap. Look for brands valuing sustainable, natural, and traditional practices like X50 who formulate with naturopaths, are all natural and don’t use preservatives, synthetic sugars and ‘filler’ ingredients.

Image: One, two

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Courtesy of El Toro and its brand new Coconut Tequila, we’re sharing with you three coconut-themed cocktails to enjoy this summer season.

Mango Coconut Punch

Ingredients

60mL El Toro Coconut Tequila120mL Pineapple Juice30mL Lime Juice10mL Sugar SyrupSparkling WaterLime Wheel, for garnishTajin, for garnish

Method

To prepare your high-ball glass, run a slice of lime around the rim of the glass. Pour toasted Tajin on a plate and press the rim of the glass into the Tajin.

To a cocktail shaker, add Coconut Tequila, Pineapple Juice, fresh lime juice, sugar syrup ice. Shake till cold. Strain into your prepared glass. Top with sparkling water. Add a thinly sliced lime to garnish.

Creamy Coconut Margarita

Ingredients

60mL El Toro Coconut Tequila30mL Coconut Cream30mL Lime Juice10mL Sugar SyrupSplash of Pineapple JuiceToasted Coconut Shavings, for garnishLime Wheel, for garnish

Method

To prepare your low-ball glass, run a slice of lime around the rim of the glass. Pour toasted coconut shavings on a plate and press the rim of the glass into the coconut.

To a cocktail shaker, add Coconut Tequila, coconut cream, fresh lime juice, sugar syrup, dash of pineapple juice and ice. Shake till cold. Strain into your prepared glass. Add a thinly sliced lime to garnish.

Classic Coconut Margarita

Ingredients

60mL El Toro Coconut Tequila15mL Triple Sec30mL Lime Juice20mL Sugar SyrupToasted Coconut Shavings, for garnishLime Wheel, for garnish

Method

To prepare your margarita glass, run a slice of lime around the rim of the glass. Pour coconut shavings on a plate and press the rim of the glass into the coconut.

To a cocktail shaker, add Coconut Tequila, triple sec, fresh lime juice, sugar syrup and ice. Shake till cold. Strain into your prepared glass. Add a thinly sliced lime to garnish.

The post 3 coconut tequila cocktails recipes for the summer season appeared first on RUSSH.

What makes it sing is the ritual of scoring the fat, studding each diamond with cloves, and brushing on a glossy glaze that slowly turns golden in the oven. As it bakes, the kitchen fills with the kind of warmth and spice that signals celebration, even if the occasion is simply gathering around good food. Sweet, savoury, and made for sharing, this ham is the sort of centrepiece that asks you to carve slowly, pour something chilled, and savour the moment.

Ingredients

Prep Time: 20 minutesCooking Time: 40 minutes

Method

The post Victor Churchill’s recipe for baked kurobuta berkshire ham with maple syrup and clove glaze appeared first on RUSSH.

But in case you were in need of some recommendations of places to eat or recipes to try, we thought it was about time we shared our gustatory opinions outside of the RUSSH HQ walls. And this month, the editors have been devouring some great recs. From Friendsmas feasts to Hainanese Chicken Ric – this is what the RUSSH editors have been eating this December.

Cassandra Dimitroff

Features and Production Editor

I paid my first visit to Catalina in Rose Bay this month, which was breathtaking. While every dish was a 10/10, this coral trout crudo with green curry dressing was possibly one of the most delicious and beautiful dishes I’ve ever been served in my life. I also paid a visit to Darlinghurst’s new outpost of Mapo Gelato to try their watermelon granita with mascarpone gelato – the ultimate summer dessert IMO.

Sophia Serafin

Implementation Manager

I returned to Vin-cenzo’s this month, and took the opportunity to explore more of the menu. The tuna tartare – prepared in the style of classic beef tartare – was easily one of the best I’ve had. Scallops in garlic butter and fried eggplant followed, before a standout whole flounder served in a buttery sauce with vongole. On sunny days, I’ve been stopping by my local, Bar Copains, for a few glasses of wine… and inevitably, their potato scallops.

Jaime Carmody

Digital Marketing Specialist

December has been all about eating outdoors and keeping things close to home. Long lunches that turn into early evenings and meals that feel relaxed and thoughtful. I’ve been gravitating toward local favourites with frequent stops at Caravin which feels perfectly suited for Summer. This month also popped into Dear Saint Eloise for their beautiful list of natural wines.

Mia Steiber

Digital Strategy Director & Associate Publisher

I had a friend who recently turned 30 and we celebrated with the most gorgeous lunch at Il Baretto in Paddington. We had the private dining room upstairs, the food was absolutely delicious. I’ve also made a number of post-Pilates trips out to Rollers Bakehouse in December. The oat matcha and the ham and cheese croissant is my standard order – the perfect weekend treat! I’ve also been hosting a lot at home, I had 10 friends around recently and I made my versions of Hainanese Chicken Rice. I spent a large chunk of my childhood in Singapore so it was very nostalgic.

Kirsty Thatcher

Digital Editor

It would be remiss of me not to mention my Friendsmas Christmas lunch, which was easily the best meal I had this month (and I can’t take any credit for it). We started with fresh oysters from the fish market with a homemade vinaigrette alongside lots of champagne. But the next course was probably my favourite: a recreation of Fish Shop’s tuna tostada – the perfect starter on a hot day. From there, we had kingfish sashimi, steak done to perfection on the barbecue, plus salad and the most incredible herby potatoes. And to finish off, my favourite summertime dessert: sgroppino. All credits go to our chef, Eliza (@eatsbylize)!

The post All the best dishes the ‘RUSSH’ team dined on in December appeared first on RUSSH.

This iteration from Miriam Al-Noah (aka @mealswithmim on Instagram and TikTok) brings together bold Mediterranean flavours with an easy, intuitive approach to cooking. The lamb is simply marinated and quickly seared, while the salad does the heavy lifting with juicy orange, fresh mint and a honey-lemon dressing that cuts beautifully through the richness of the meat.

It’s the sort of meal that feels tailor-made for warm, summer evenings – relaxed, colourful and best enjoyed outdoors (and shared with good company).

Ingredients

Serves 2

Ingredients

Enjoy on a balmy summery evening, eat outside!

The post Miriam Al-Noah’s recipe for marinated lamb backstrap with citrus fennel salad and roast pumpkin appeared first on RUSSH.

Burnout itself is not a disease, but a condition characterised by mood changes (like depressive symptoms, anxiety, stress, and sleep disturbances), which are also present in diagnosed mental diseases (such as depression or anxiety disorders).

Burnout symptoms can be separated into three domains:

We cannot discuss burnout without first introducing the nervous system, which as the name suggests is involved in receiving and transmitting information between different parts of the body, processing sensory input, and controlling various bodily functions. The nervous system is a complex network of specialised cells, tissues, and organs that coordinates and regulates the activities of the body.

Burnout is a chicken-and-the-egg type of situation. The food you eat provides the building blocks for your nervous system to function properly, but chronic stress also increases the demands for micronutrients such as magnesium and B vitamins.

When we are stressed, making nutritious food choices can fall down on the priority list. Poor food choices mean we don’t get the extra nutrients we need to combat the extra stress. The “busy-ness” often means we are eating on the run, and eating on the run also leads to inadequate digestion, further exacerbating nutrition deficiencies.

If you’ve ever been caught, or are currently in the busy/stress trap then likely you’ll know all too well how easy it is to lean into convenience foods which can lack in nutrients but are also high in refined carbohydrates and sugar which can lead to blood sugar crashes, sending our brain more signals that we are in crisis.

Banishing burnout is indeed a multi-pronged approach to your work, life, mental, physical and emotional health. Let’s tackle one part for now and look at nutrition to support your nervous system and prevent burnout:

Essential nutrients

Several vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients are essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system. These include:

Neurotransmitter balance

Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that transmit signals between nerve cells. Adequate nutrition is essential for the synthesis and regulation of neurotransmitters, which influence mood, cognition, and overall brain function. Consuming a balanced diet with sufficient protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats provides the building blocks for neurotransmitter production.

Blood sugar regulation

The brain relies primarily on glucose as its energy source. Maintaining stable blood sugar levels through regular, balanced meals and snacks can prevent energy crashes and support optimal brain function. Including complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, along with protein and healthy fats, helps regulate blood sugar levels.

Gut-brain connection

Emerging research highlights the importance of the gut-brain axis, which involves bidirectional communication between the gut and the brain. A healthy gut microbiome, influenced by diet, plays a significant role in maintaining brain health and neurotransmitter balance. Consuming a diverse range of fibre-rich foods (fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, beans, legumes and whole grains), fermented foods (kraut, kimchi, kombucha, yoghurt), and pre-biotics (which feed beneficial gut bacteria) supports a healthy gut-brain connection.

Hydration

Proper hydration is essential for optimal nerve function. Dehydration can impair cognitive function, mood, and overall brain performance. Drinking adequate water and consuming hydrating foods, such as fruits and vegetables, helps maintain proper hydration.

Mindful eating

Sit to consume your meals and avoid eating on the run or at your desk. Chew your food, digestion starts in the mouth after all. Savour your food, which will in turn regulate hunger cues but also help to reduce stress.

For more nutrition advice from Brittany Darling, visit Day One Fertility.

Image: one.

The post How to banish burnout with these 6 simple nutrition tips appeared first on RUSSH.

More recently, as a society we’ve recognised there is a third, more fluid option. That is the concept of mindful drinking. While it may be familiar to some and a revelation for others, being a mindful drinker simply means you bring awareness to your instinct to drink. Whether that be socially, the glass of wine after your work day or a reflex for hard times. And since we’ve fostered mindfulness in all other facets of our life, like our beauty routines and fashion purchases, it makes perfect sense then for this line of thought to drift over to our relationship with alcohol.

Luckily for us, the land of alcohol-free has come a long way from the sad, flat and sweet bottles touted at Woolies. There is no lolly-water-masquerading-as-wine here, we promise. So for those among us curious to what else is out there, we’ve compiled a list of our favourite alcohol-free beverages. Just in time for those of us partaking in Dry July, too.

1. HEAPS NORMAL Quiet XPA

Based in Canberra, the boys behind Heaps Normal brew one thing and brew it well (this has since changed). Their Quiet XPA is undoubtedly the most beer-like of all the non alcoholic options out there. Crisp, citrusy and fresh, it will fill the tinny shaped hole in your heart.

2. FRENCH BLOOM Organic French Bubbly

I’ll level with you, the vast majority of alcohol-free wine is not good. I tend to steer clear of it completely and content myself with a Heaps Normal. French Bloom on the other hand is delightful. It’s fully organic, 100% natural, and undergoes a manual de-alcoholization process in order to achieve its 0.0% alcohol content.

3. Sobah Davidson Plum Gluten-Free Ale

Owned and helmed by Gamilaroi man Clinton Schultz and his wife Lozen. The couple ethically source native Australian ingredients like lemon aspen, pepperberry and finger lime to incorporate into their alcohol-free range.

4. MISCHIEF BREW Non-Alc Aperitivo Spritz

The Non-Alc Aperitivo Spritz by Mischief Brew captures the essence of a classic Italian aperitivo without the alcohol, blending zesty citrus notes with a bitter-sweet complexity. It’s the perfect sip for laid-back afternoons or celebratory toasts, offering sophistication in every pour.

5. SEEDLIP Garden 108

A veteran in the alcohol-free world, Seedlip has built a cult following among those looking to redefine their relationship with booze. Enjoy all three options as you would a spirit and add it to your favourite mixer.

6. POLKA Non-Alc Italian Aperitif

Polka Non-Alc Italian Aperitif is a versatile non-alcoholic beverage crafted to complement sparkling water or soda with a slice of dried orange. It features balanced notes of blood orange, lemon myrtle, rhubarb, and grapefruit, offering a refreshing experience without the effects of alcohol or excessive sugar.

7. PARC Pilsners

Parc Pilsner is Monceau’s foray into non-alcoholic beer. Immediately refreshing thanks to its bitterness and the simple fact that it won’t leave a headache in its wake.

8. NON 7 Stewed Cherry & Coffee

For the salty, savoury, umami thrill you seek from a bloody mary or michelada, this is your pal. Melbourne-based project, NON, reimagines the drinking experience for those seeking a break from alcohol without trying to replicate wine or any other spirit for that matter. It’s a drink in its own league.

9. LYRES Dry London Spirit

Lyre’s Non-Alcoholic Dry London Spirit is crafted to emulate the essence of a classic gin, offering firm flavors of juniper and citrus, complemented by earthy notes and a warm pepperberry finish. Enjoy it as a traditional gin and tonic with premium tonic water, garnished with pink grapefruit and rosemary, or mix it with Lyre’s Italian Orange and Mediterranean tonic for a refreshing Pink Gin Fizz.

10. PUNCHY Lightly Sparkling Blueberry

When the heat demands a refreshing drink, Punchy is a thoughtful alternative to lukewarm Coronas or sickly sweet seltzers.

11. FOUR PILLARS Bandwagon Rare Dry Non Alcohol

Bandwagon Dry is Four Pillars Gin’s non-alcoholic alternative to their signature Rare Dry Gin. It features fresh citrus aromas of orange and lemon myrtle, complemented by a palate of spice and warmth derived from a heavier load of botanicals. This alcohol-free spirit is crafted by individually steam-distilling each botanical and blending them with a water base, allowing you to enjoy the classic gin experience without the alcohol.

12. WEEKDAY DRINKS Mellow Margarita

The Mellow Margarita by Weekday Drinks is a versatile elixir that can be enjoyed as a nutrient-dense mocktail or mixed with tequila for a healthier twist on the classic margarita. This naturopath-approved blend features L-Theanine to promote relaxation and mood elevation, a probiotic complex for gut health, and cold-pressed pear and lime juices to replenish and nourish from the inside out.

13. Maggie Beer Alcohol Free Sparkling Ruby Cabernet

If you’re looking for the deliciousness of a cabernet, sans the alcohol, look no further. Maggie Beer is already a master of the kitchen, so it makes sense that her alcohol free sparkling ruby cabernet would nail the brief, too. It’s virbant, refreshing, and sophisticated, making the perfect accompaniment for any occasion.

The post 12 of our favourite non-alcoholic beverages that actually taste great appeared first on RUSSH.

As hospitals across the city continue to care for those affected, Australians are grappling with the shock and senselessness of what has occurred. In the days following events like this, many people ask the same question: what can I do to help? One of the most direct and meaningful ways to support victims of mass trauma is by donating blood.

The Red Cross app is currently unavailable for some users. Blood donations are still being encouraged. If you can’t access the app, you can call on the following number: 13 14 95

Why blood donations are so important right now

After incidents involving serious injuries, hospitals rely heavily on blood supplies to perform emergency surgeries and treat patients with life-threatening wounds. Trauma care places immediate pressure on blood banks, particularly for O-negative blood, which can be given to anyone in an emergency.

Beyond moments of crisis, donated blood is also used every day to support people undergoing cancer treatment, complicated births, major surgeries and long-term medical care. A single donation can help save multiple lives.

How to donate blood in Australia

If you’re able to donate, the process is simple and straightforward.

1. Check if you’re eligible

Eligibility requirements are in place to keep both donors and recipients safe. Most healthy adults can donate, but it’s best to confirm before booking. You can see the list of requirements here.

2. Find a donation centre

The Australian Red Cross Lifeblood operates donation centres across Australia. Locations are available in major cities and regional areas, making it possible to donate in a place convenient to you.

You can also use Lifeblood’s official “find a donor centre near you” search tool. Alternatively, here are several donor sites across Sydney:

Fixed donor centres:

Mobile and pop‑up donor sites:

For booking or eligibility questions, call 13 14 95.

3. Book an appointment

Appointments can be booked online or by phone. A whole blood donation usually takes around 10 minutes, with the full visit lasting about an hour. Because many Australians are currently trying to donate in the wake of the Bondi tragedy, appointments today may currently be booked out. Lifeblood is urging for people to continue to make appointments in the coming days and weeks, to ease demand.

4. Other ways to donate

If you’re a returning donor, plasma or platelet donations are also valuable. These are often used to treat other critically ill patients, including burn victims, people with clotting disorders and patients undergoing chemotherapy.

5. After your donation

It’s normal to feel a little tired afterwards. Staying hydrated and resting briefly usually helps. If you feel unwell following your donation, Lifeblood can provide follow-up support.

You don’t have to be from Sydney to donate

Those in interstate and regional areas are still being encouraged to donate, especially if your blood type is O-negative. In these instances, your blood will be transported to where it is needed most.

Many Lifeblood centres are booked out — but future donations will still be needed

Countless Australians have responded to the Bondi Beach tragedy by making an appointment to donate blood. As a result, many blood donation centres around Sydney are currently booked out. If this is the case for you, you are still encouraged to donate blood at the earliest possible appointment. Mass tragedies like this one can place strain on blood supplies for months to come, so every donation makes a difference.

Should you donate directly to a hospital or to a blood bank?

In general, it is best to donate through an official blood bank or donation centre, rather than directly to a hospital.

Because all blood donations must be carefully screened, tested, and matched to patient needs to ensure safety, hospitals rarely accept them directly from individuals,

Blood banks manage logistics and storage. Similarly, they know which hospitals need which blood types, and can distribute donations efficiently to where they’re most needed. Blood banks also follow strict procedures to protect both donors and recipients.

Feature image by Madeleine Craine, via Unsplash.

The post How to donate blood in the wake of the Bondi Beach terrorist attack appeared first on RUSSH.

Sexually-active gay and bisexual men, transgender women, and sex workers can now donate

This move came into effect on July 14, 2025, marking a significant break from decades of outdated policy — and a welcome redefinition of what “safe” looks like in the world of blood donation.

Previously, individuals in these groups were prevented from donating plasma if they had had sex with men within the past three months, regardless of whether their sexual activity posed any actual risk. Now, for the first time, eligibility will be determined by individual risk behaviours, not sexual identity or gender.

The shift comes after rigorous safety assessments by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and Lifeblood, with new findings confirming that Australia’s blood and plasma supplies will remain safe due to a processing step known as pathogen deactivation. That safety net, paired with updated screening questions, means many more Australians will now be able to participate in life-saving donations.

The updated guidelines also permit individuals taking HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to donate plasma, though they’ll still be ineligible for blood donation for now. Individuals with sexual contact with someone known to carry a blood-borne virus will also remain deferred.

It’s a long-awaited win for the many Australians who have been excluded from donation not because of risk, but because of residual stigma rooted in the HIV/AIDS crisis of the 1980s.

Who else is eligible to donate blood?

You can assess your eligibility using the below guidelines:

How often can you donate blood?

You can donate blood every 12 weeks.

How often can you donate plasma?

You can donate plasma every 2 weeks.

The post How to know if you’re eligible to donate blood in Australia appeared first on RUSSH.