Students at public schools across NSW will return to school in 2023 with access to free menstrual hygiene products thanks to the NSW Nationals in the state government.
More than 4,600 dispensers have been installed in public schools across the state to support young women overcome barriers in accessing menstrual hygiene products.
Nationals Minister for Education and Early Learning Sarah Mitchell said getting your period should not be a barrier to education.
“We have installed 4,600 sanitary product dispensers in NSW schools to ensure students can participate in all aspects of school life,” Ms Mitchell said.
“I want our young women to feel comfortable in knowing they have access to free sanitary products when they need, in their school.
“Evidence shows that providing sanitary items has a very positive impact on educational engagement and attainment, so we know this program is going to make a huge difference for our students’ education.”
The Nationals are also supporting delivery of the Periods, Pain and Endometriosis Program (PPEP-Talk), developed by the Pelvic Pain Foundation of Australia (PPFA) and co-funded by the Australian Government.
The PPEP-Talk, an age-appropriate program to help students, parents and schools understand endometriosis and pelvic pain and early intervention strategies, will be delivered at select public schools in NSW.
“These PPEP-Talks will allow for both male and female students to be able to discuss women’s health in a respectful way that reduces the stigma that can come around women’s health,” Ms Mitchell said.
Nationals Minister for Women Bronnie Taylor said the Nationals in government have delivered what many young women have been calling for.
“This statewide rollout of period products, alongside the PPEP-Talk program, will ensure our young women have the support they need, with dignity and without barriers, as they continue their education journey,” Ms Taylor said.
“By openly discussing periods, endometriosis and reproductive health we are removing the taboo around women’s health issues.”
