URGENT UPDATE: Free pad and tampon vending machines have officially launched in the Macedon Ranges, bringing essential menstrual products closer to home for women and girls. Announced by Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas, the machines are now available at Woodend, Gisborne, and Romsey libraries, ensuring immediate access to crucial health products.
This initiative is part of a broader state government program aimed at distributing over 100,000 packs of pads and tampons within the first six months. Eventually, the plan includes the installation of 1,500 vending machines across more than 700 public locations in Victoria, including libraries, hospitals, TAFEs, train stations, and community hubs.
Local government officials emphasize the importance of this rollout.
“This initiative removes a barrier that many in our community face; many people in our community can’t always afford these necessary items,”
said Amy Holmes, acting director of community for the Macedon Ranges council. She highlighted that pads and tampons should be considered essential for health and wellbeing, not a luxury.
The initiative seeks to alleviate cost-of-living pressures while promoting gender equality.
“By providing free period products, we are reducing shame, improving wellbeing, and setting the stage for equality for women in our community,”
Holmes added.
The community can find a complete list of vending machine locations at freepadsandtampons.vic.gov.au. As this program expands, it promises to enhance access to necessary health products and foster a supportive environment for women and girls throughout the region.
Stay tuned as more updates unfold on this critical public health initiative.
