Queensland's move to provide free pads and tampons in public schools has been hailed as progress in the battle against period poverty and stigma, but experts say more work is needed. Read the full story here: womenshealth periods menstrualcycle
Queensland's move to provide free pads and tampons in state schools has been welcomed by campaigners against period poverty.Queensland has become the latest state to make period products available for free in public high schools.
Having access to period products “really does impact whether people go to school, how comfortable they feel when they are at school, and it just removes one of those barriers to people being able to thrive and just be themselves”, she said.Queensland follows other states in introducing free period products to public schools.
The Queensland government has been trialling vending machines dispensing period packs, containing six tampons and two sanitary pads, in 53 state schools, five Catholic schools and four independent schools. The government will also continue funding a menstruation education program for all students in Years Five to Eight.“Period poverty doesn't just mean not having access to period products,” Ms Legena said.
“Girls and young people who menstruate from vulnerable communities in Australia can face significant challenges to manage their period safely and confidently,” Ms Legena said.