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                    Period poverty

                    Two young women walking outdoors
                    Period poverty is the term used to describe the inability to purchase menstrual care products, which is considered a significant obstacle to health, comfort, and engagement with school and community activities.

                    It is experienced by girls, women and other people who menstruate all over the world including Australia.  Research about period poverty is limited, however some evidence shows that poor menstrual management can affect people's emotional and physical health and influence their behaviour such as school and work attendance, participation in sports and socialising in public places.

                    To help address period poverty, the City of Melbourne is piloting a free period care product service in a limited number of public facilities for 12 months beginning 10 September 2021.

                    Free period care products are available at the following locations:

                    • Library at the Dock

                    • City Library

                    • Carlton Baths

                    • Melbourne Town Hall Collins Street public toilets

                    • North Melbourne Community Centre

                    • Kathleen Syme Community Centre

                    The City of Melbourne is conducting a review of the Free period care product service pilot. If you or someone you know has used this service we would like to hear from you. Please complete this short 5 minute survey by no later than 30 September. If you need any assistance in completing the survey contact City of Melbourne on 9658 9658 or vist contact us.

                    Frequently Asked Questions

                    Why is City of Melbourne offering free period care products in its facilities?

                    ​We know that many people who menstruate do not have access to products to manage their period, especially in times of emergency such as natural disasters and escaping family violence.

                    The free service aims to support people who menstruate go about their daily lives without the fear or stigma of managing their period.

                    When will the free period care product service pilot commence?

                    ​The free period care product service will begin 10 September 2021.

                    Who can access the free period care products?

                    ​This free service is available to anyone who menstruates including women, girls, transgender and gender diverse people.

                    What period care products are available?

                    ​The vending machines dispense Libra Ultra Thin Regular Pads with Wings and Libra Regular Tampons (8 tampons per box).

                    How frequently are the vending machines serviced?

                    ​​The vending machines are serviced monthly. The service frequency may change depending on demand of service at each facility. 

                    Who can I speak to if I want to know more about the 12 month pilot?

                    ​For all general enquiries or to report low stock or damage to vending machine call the City of Melbourne on 9658 9658, or visit contact us.

                    Will free period care products be available in other council facilities?

                    ​The twelve month pilot will be evaluated to determine future needs and potential expansion of the service to other council facilities.

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