Pads and tampons will be available free at all New South Wales public schools, with dispensers being rolled out to every school by the end of June.

The rollout follows a 31-school trial in south west Sydney and Dubbo. It means every state school in NSW will have dispensers that will supply pads and tampons for free.

“I want our young women to feel comfortable in knowing they have access to free sanitary products when they need,” said NSW Education Minister Sarah Mitchell. “We have seen through the pilot program that providing sanitary items has a positive impact on educational engagement and attainment.”

More open discussions needed

It comes after a continued call for access to sanitary products in schools, as well as more open discussions about women’s health.

“By openly discussing periods, endometriosis and reproductive health we are removing the taboo around women’s health issues,” said Minister for Women Bronnie Taylor.

Free pads and tampons have been available in all Victorian public schools since 2019.