Free tampons and pads are now readily available through vending machines in two convenient locations: the consulting and primary health services waiting area toilet, and the Urgent Care Centre toilet.
Various products are available to suit different needs, including two-packs of both super and regular pads, as well as two-packs and six-packs of both super and regular tampons.
KDHS chief executive Anne McEvoy said she was proud the service had jumped aboard this program.
“We know that access to pads and tampons is essential for health, dignity and participation in everyday life,” Ms McEvoy said.
“We’re pleased to support this initiative and encourage our community to make use of these free machines.”
According to a survey of 153,000 Australians by Share the Dignity, 64 per cent of menstruators have struggled to afford period products due to cost.
Now, in Kyabram, access to products is as easy as pressing a button.
KDHS joins a network of 700 public locations across Victoria offering free menstrual products, including public hospitals, TAFEs, courts, libraries and train stations, making access more convenient than ever.
Since the program’s launch in November 2024, over 90,000 packs have been dispensed, resulting in significant savings for Victorian families — potentially hundreds of thousands of dollars.
The $23 million program has been created through consultation with community health representatives, menstrual health experts, women’s health organisations and peak organisations representing Aboriginal Victorians, people from diverse communities, young people, LGBTQI+ Victorians and people with disabilities.
Community members can find more information about the program and locate other vending machines across Victoria by visiting betterhealth.vic.gov.au/free-pads-and-tampons
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