Free pads and tampons are available in every government school in Victoria – because being able to access period products shouldn't be a barrier to students getting the most out of their education.
In Victoria, periods are no longer taboo. Victoria is the first state or territory in Australia to ensure every government school student has universal access to free period products.
The $20.7 million initiative commenced in Term 3, 2019 and installed dispensing machines in every school by the end of Term 2, 2020. In 2023, following the success of the program, Victoria committed $3.9 million ongoing and $15.5 million over 4 years to continue delivery of period products ongoing. A further $950,000 was provided over 4 years to deliver menstrual health and pelvic pain education and resources to Victorian students.
The Victorian Government's commitment to providing free period products in government primary, secondary and special schools will:
- provide students with the confidence that there will always be period products available at school
- relieve students of the stigma, anxiety and discomfort associated with menstrual hygiene management so they can focus on their studies
- ease the cost of living for families.
Period products are a necessity, not a luxury. The free period products in government schools initiative will support tens of thousands of students across the state.
Lack of easy access to period products can negatively impact student participation in sports and everyday school activities.
Students may not be able to concentrate in class, feel comfortable or feel confident doing physical activity, or they may miss school altogether. By making period products freely available at school, we are one step closer to educational equality.
All government schools must continue to provide access to period products at school. Both pads and tampons are provided to allow students to make a choice based on their own needs, cultural beliefs, maturity and preferences.
Schools play an important role in promoting a positive culture around menstrual health and building a supportive environment among the school community. The initiative aims to reduce the stigma of periods, making school a more inclusive place that will help students focus on their studies.
Schools have access to educational resources to promote positive menstrual health and hygiene management. Communication materials are also provided to increase parental and community understanding of this initiative.
Schools have access to educational resources to promote positive menstrual health and hygiene management. Communication materials are also provided to increase parental and community understanding of this initiative.
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