Victorian women and girls are set to benefit from expanded access to period products and prescription-free contraception, with the state government announcing major milestones in both programs.
Since its launch, the free Pads and Tampons initiative has distributed more than 500,000 products, with 1,000 dispensing machines now installed across 500 sites in all 79 local government areas. The remaining 500 machines are expected to be rolled out by the end of 2026.
The machines are available in libraries, TAFEs, train stations, Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations, sports centres and hospitals, offering easier access for the estimated one in five Victorian women and girls who struggle to afford period products.
Minister for Women, Mary-Anne Thomas, said the program helps women and girls participate fully in work, school and sport.
“No woman or girl should be caught without pads and tampons when they need them,” she said, adding that the initiative is one way of easing the cost-of-living pressures many face.
Parliamentary Secretary for Women’s Health, Kat Theophanous, highlighted the importance of normalising access to period products.
“Periods are a normal part of life – accessing period products should be just as normal. That’s why we’re making pads and tampons freely available across Victoria.”
In a related announcement, Premier Allan signalled changes to contraception access, confirming that from July women will be able to obtain the oral contraceptive pill directly from pharmacists without a prescription. “We trust pharmacists with our health. So we can trust them with contraception,” the Premier said.
“Getting the Pill shouldn’t be a burden. Soon you’ll be able to walk into your chemist and get it without a script.”
She added that the move aims to give women greater control over their reproductive health.
The government’s initiatives mark a significant step in addressing barriers to both reproductive and menstrual health, aiming to reduce time and financial pressures for women and girls across the state.
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