Martin Williams from Australian Red Cross presented a interesting outline of the organisation detailing the many areas in which it is of service to the communities world wide. Built on a basis of volunteering and commenced 150 years ago, following the first world war. Martin also explained the universal symbols of Red Cross world-wide … Emblems of protection … The Red Cross, Red Crescent and Red Crystal are international emblems of protection and neutrality in situations of armed conflict.  The emblems identify people or facilities engaged in the provision of medical aid or humanitarian assistance, and in any language they mean ‘Don’t shoot!’ Those who wear or work under the emblems are to be protected at all times. Protected people include medical personnel and chaplains attached to military forces, and humanitarian workers including Red Cross or Red Crescent delegates. Medical sites, vehicles and equipment are also marked and protected. Deliberately misusing the emblems to gain a military advantage is perfidy, and is a war crime.

Commitment when others turn away Red Cross is there for people in need, regardless of nationality, race, religious beliefs, class or political opinions. We are impartial, neutral and independent. Each day innocent people live with conflict and the indignity of discrimination. Each day Australians need blood to help battle cancer. Countless lives lost could be saved through first aid. We are the keepers of the Geneva Conventions or the ‘laws of war’; we talk to military, governments and militants alike. We are guided by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to create, together, sustainable solutions with a new determination. We train people in first aid, motivate the next generation to make their community a better place and with the help of half a million Australian blood donors, we save lives. And we are committed to supporting our Red Cross partners in Asia Pacific, helping them build strength in their own communities. We are in it for the long haul. Red Cross is there for people in need, no matter who you are, no matter where you live.

Martin mentioned there are lots of ways you can become involved with Australian Red Cross. Membership When you become a Red Cross member, you’re joining one of the largest and oldest humanitarian organisations in the world.

Young humanitarians Take action and make a real difference in your life and the lives of others. Volunteer in Australia By volunteering with Red Cross you can help to improve the lives of the most vulnerable people.

Volunteer overseas You can now volunteer with Red Cross in Asia, the Pacific and Africa.  Fundraise for us By fundraising for Red Cross you’ll help people in need both here in Australia and around the world, and you’ll have fun while you’re doing it. Donate blood People who give blood are united by their generosity and the desire to give something back to the community.