- Public schools with Year 7-12 students will start to have access to free period products commencing from this week
- Australian manufacturer Essity will supply the period products for more than 220 public schools
- Improving access to period products will help keep students engaged in school
The McGowan Government's commitment to providing secondary students at all public schools with free access to period products will begin rolling out from this week.
Manufacturer Essity, which provides quality sanitary pads, tampons and liners in Australia, has been awarded the contract to supply the products.
Period products are a fundamental health necessity, but the cost and associated stigma can mean students do not have access to the items they need.
This initiative will improve access to period products and is designed to keep students engaged in their learning.
All public schools that have secondary students will receive period products at no cost to the school or students.
Schools will receive an initial supply of products by the end of Term 1, with the full implementation of products and dispenser installation taking place during Term 2.
Comments attributed to Education Minister Dr Tony Buti:
"This is a welcome update following the McGowan Government's commitment to provide access to free period products for secondary students.
"It is important that we do everything we can to prevent barriers from students attending school, and no student should miss out on attending classes because they don't have access to period products.
"We now have a great Australian supplier in Essity, and deliveries begin next week."
Comments attributed to Women's Interests Minister Sue Ellery:
"Having your period should not be a barrier to participating in school.
"Young people are dealing with a range of issues during their high school years and we don't want them to miss opportunities that are crucial for their growth.
"With the rollout now underway, I hope it provides young women with some comfort by ensuring they have access to free period products when they need them."
Education Minister's office - 6552 6400
Women's Interests Minister's office - 6552 5700
