Women in Melton can access free pads and tampons at Woodgrove Shopping Centre from July.
Melton MP Steve McGhie said the state government rollout was expanding across Victoria and women have already saved thousands of dollars, with more than 25,000 packs of pads and tampons dispensed in the first six months of the program.
Once the rollout is complete, up to 1,500 free pad and tampon machines – both smart and battery-operated – will be available at more than 700 public locations across Victoria.
Sites will include regional libraries, hospitals, TAFEs, train stations and other community hubs.
Mr McGhie said councils across Victoria were invited to nominate sites for the machines – ensuring the rollout reflected the needs of communities right across the state.
“Pads and tampons are not luxuries, they are essential. As part of this groundbreaking initiative, free and accessible menstrual products will be available at Woodgrove Shopping Centre for all women and girls. This world leading program is delivering real change for women in Melton,“ said Mr McGhie.
Launching the next phase of the rollout, Minister for Women Natalie Hutchins said period products are a basic necessity that the government was making sure women and girls could get for free when and where they need them.
“This is about dignity, equality and making sure no one misses out on school, work or community life because of their period,“ she said.
A full list of locations is available at freepadsandtampons.vic.gov.au.
