Labor promises free tampons and pads in Victorian schools if re-elected

Long overdue.

Following Scotland’s excellent lead, the Labor government has announced it will provide free pads and tampons to all Victorian state schools if re-elected next weekend.

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews and Health Minister Jill Hennessy made the announcement this morning, citing the need for better access to sanitation for all students.

“It can create unnecessary stress for students trying to navigate finding a tampon or pad, and that may delay regularly changing them, placing them at greater risk of toxic shock or cervical cancer,” Hennessy said.

Under the Australian-first initiative, free tampons and pads would become available in all Victorian government school female, unisex and accessible bathrooms from term three 2019.

“We want to break down the stigma of menstruation and ensure it does not impact on a student’s ability to be comfortable at school and ready to learn,” Hennessy said in a statement.

The announcement comes just nine days out from the November 24 state election.

We’re announcing this. It’s an Australian first. It’s the right thing to do. pic.twitter.com/yVoxgBVMZs

— Daniel Andrews (@DanielAndrewsMP) 14 November 2018