Students in years seven to twelve will have access to free sanitary pads and tampons in public high schools from this week.

Hygiene and health company Essity will provide an initial supply of period products by the end of term one, with full implementation and dispenser installation set to take place in term two. 

Western Australia is the last state in the country to offer free period products, with 225 public schools benefiting from this initiative. 

In 2020, Victoria became the first state to provide free period products to public school students, with South Australia, Tasmania, and the Northern Territory following suit a year later. 

After successful trials, New South Wales and Queensland began distributing menstrual products earlier this year.

“Having your period should not be a barrier to participating in school,” Women’s Interests Minister Sue Ellery said. 

“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.” 

It’s currently unknown how much the program will cost or how students will access the products. 

While period products are fundamental, the cost and surrounding stigma usually mean students don’t have access to the items they need. This initiative will improve access to pads and tampons, and keep students engaged with their learning.

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Lead image: Maddi Bazzocco