Three-quarters of Canberrans are not registered as organ donors, despite hundreds of people currently on the waitlist for a transplant across the nation.
Around 1700 people can be waiting for an organ and tissue transplant at any one time.
In 2019, 10 ACT residents donated to 32 people on the transplant waiting list.
But while two in three Australians are willing to donate their organs or tissue, less than one in four people are on the register in the ACT.
Health Minister Rachel Stephen-Smith urged Canberrans to consider registering as an organ donor.
She said it could be a hard conversation to have with loved ones, but it could ultimately be life-changing.
"We know there are many people who would want their organs donated if the situation arose, but have not signed up to the register or had a conversation about this with their loved ones," Ms Stephen-Smith said.
"This DonateLife Week, we're asking Canberrans to have this really important conversation with their family and make their intentions around organ and tissue donation very clear.
"The decision to become a donor can be life-changing for those waiting for an organ or tissue donation but it can also be a very hard and emotional time for your family if they are unsure about your wishes."
- Register as an organ donor at donatelife.gov.au
