Victoria has become the first state or territory in Australia to provide free pads and tampons in all government schools.
The $20.7 million initiative to provide the free sanitary products, first promised by the Andrews government during the 2018 state election campaign, has now been rolled out in Victoria’s 1500-plus state schools.
The state government says it will reduce discomfort and embarrassment around periods for girls, and save families hundreds of dollars every year.
The state education minister's office said poor access to pads and tampons can hurt student participation in everyday school activities, their concentration in class and attendance at school altogether.
Under the initiative, students will also get information about how to manage their periods.
“We’re proud to be providing free sanitary items in all Victorian government schools to ensure that students – regardless of their background or circumstances – can focus and participate fully in their education,” Victorian Education Minister James Merlino said.
Women’s Minister Gabrielle Williams said sanitary items were a basic necessity.
The announcement comes after New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern last month revealed a plan to end widespread period poverty by providing free sanitary products in the country’s schools.
The New Zealand program will initially be trialled in 15 schools throughout the Waikato region before being expanded nationwide in 2021 on an opt-in basis.
Meanwhile, The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists earlier this year called for government action to enable free access to sanitary products for all women and girls.
RANZCOG President Dr Vijay Roach said he had been inspired by recent policy developments in Scotland to start a similar conversation in Australia.
“No woman or girl should have to compromise their health or confidence because they cannot afford the products they need to stay healthy,” Dr Roach said in March.
