Free pads and tampons on the Bellarine

BELLARINE locals are set to benefit from the Victorian government’s rollout of free pad and tampon vending machines across Victoria.

Bellarine MP Alison Marchant announced last week that new machines will soon be installed at libraries in Drysdale, Leopold and Queenscliff.

The program will help remove barriers to education, work and community life for women all over the region.

Lack of access to period products is a real issue for women and girls in regional areas, where local services may be limited.

Access to pads and tampons is a basic need, but one in five women reported struggling to afford period products.

Ms Marchant welcomed the further rollout of the program on the Bellarine.

“One in five Victorians struggle to afford the period products they need each month,” she said.

“This rollout is a vital step toward ensuring everyone can access essential health items with dignity, whenever they need them.”

More than 25,00 packs of pads and tampons have been dispensed statewide through the program since its inception six months ago.

Once the rollout is complete, up to 1,500 free pad and tampon machines – both smart and battery operated will be available at more than 700 public locations across Victoria.

“Pads and tampons are not a luxury, they’re a necessity – this rollout means women and girls right across Victoria won’t have to miss work or school because they can’t afford them,” Minister for Women Natalie Hutchins said.

For a full list of locations where the machines are available, head to freepadsandtampons.vic.gov.au