A HIV-Aids policy expert has stated evidence against the ban on gay blood donation in Australia, arguing that it should be lifted in favour of a new policy that doesn't discriminate.

Bill Bowtell, from the Lowy Institute for International Policy, gave the evidence at an Anti-Discrimination Tribunal hearing in Tasmania that involved the Red Cross blood service and a Tasmanian resident.

Mr Bowtell believes a blanket ban on gay men giving blood is no longer serving a purpose in protecting blood supply from HIV contamination.

He recommended a new approach be taken, whereby all donors are questioned about high risk HIV activities.

"I believe we can make those policy changes, we don't have to rely on prejudice anymore," he said.

"We don't have to rely on the policies that were fine 25 years ago but we can change them safely and securely now."

Tags: aids, discrimination, hiv