The NSW Government has announced a $30m program to place free pads and tampons in the state’s public schools, with the aim of ensuring young women’s education is not impacted by their period.
The program follows a successful trial in 31 schools in South Western Sydney and the Dubbo region, and coincides with International Women’s Day.
NSW Education Minister, Sarah Mitchell, said the program was “an important milestone” for female students.
“Getting your period should not be a barrier to education. This program is providing schools with dispensers, tampons and pads for free and is supporting young women’s health, engagement and attendance at school,” Minister Mitchell said.
“I want our young women to feel comfortable in knowing they have access to free sanitary products when they need. We have seen through the pilot program that providing sanitary items has a positive impact on educational engagement and attainment.”
Minister for Women Bronnie Taylor said the statewide rollout was what many young women had been calling for.
“This great initiative is about ensuring our young women have the support they need, with dignity and without barriers, as they continue their education journey,” Minister Taylor said.
“By openly discussing periods, endometriosis and reproductive health we are removing the taboo around women’s health issues.”
The Department of Education will work with each school to discuss options for the location of the dispensers and facilitate installation through external contractors.
The program expected to be rolled out to every school by 30 June 2022.