We have done it Canberra, the ACT is the first jurisdiction to make period products free!
My Period Products and Facilities (Access) Bill passed on the 7th June, which will require ACT Government to provide period products free of charge at designated and accessible places across the ACT.
Soon we can expect period products to be freely available at places like schools, libraries and many other suitable locations across Canberra. The bill will also require the ACT Government to ensure information on menstrual hygiene is publicly available, which is vital for a rich cultural community like Canberra, where there are varying views on menstruation often being a ‘taboo’ topic.
Menstrual information will also be available in many languages, so everyone in our community is able to access it. According to Share the Dignity’s Period Pride Report ‘Bloody Big Survey’, 15% of respondents in the ACT have been unable to afford period products at some point in their life.
I am so proud that the ACT is the first jurisdiction in Australia to pass this nation leading reform, and I would encourage all other states and territories to be inspired by my bill so that no one who menstruates is ever in need.
A big thank you to everyone in the community and around Australia who has helped to make this happen. it wouldn't have been possible without you!
