Thousands more gay and bisexual men and transgender people in Australia are now allowed to donate blood following a major rule change that took effect on April 20. The update marks the end of restrictions that had been in place for decades.

Previously, many LGBTQ+ people were excluded from donating blood if they had had sex within the past three months, even if they were in monogamous relationships. These rules dated back to the 1980s and were introduced in response to the HIV epidemic.

The Australian blood service Lifeblood has now introduced a system where all donors are asked the same questions about their sexual activity, regardless of gender or sexual orientation. As a result, queer men and transgender people who are in long-term, monogamous relationships — and who meet other criteria such as age and iron levels — can now donate blood.

According to Lifeblood CEO Stephen Cornelissen, the change is the result of years of research and collaboration with governments, LGBTQIA+ advocacy groups and the broader community. It is expected that up to 20,000 new donors will come forward as a result.

People who are still not eligible to donate blood may be able to donate plasma instead. A previous rule change already led to around 10,000 plasma donations from thousands of new donors.

According to Cornelissen, the reform marks an important step toward a more inclusive donation system and may also help reduce the stigma that has long affected LGBTQ+ communities.