Queensland government announces $13.3 million investment in school period products

Queensland state schools will be given the opportunity to receive a Dignity Vending Machine, which provides free period products to students, with the Premier saying access to the essential products should never be a barrier to learning.

All Queensland state schools will be given the opportunity to receive a Dignity Vending Machine, which provides free period products to students, thanks to a $13.3 million investment in the upcoming State Budget.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said access to essential period products should never be a barrier to learning.

“Access to period products and misplaced stigma around periods should never be issues students face at school,” she said.

“We want all students to be confident to attend school every day. That’s why I am proud my government is funding Share the Dignity to give all state schools in Queensland the opportunity to receive a free Dignity Vending Machine.

“We know providing access to free period products can make a real difference, especially for students whose families are doing it tough, have unstable accommodation or are fleeing domestic and family violence.”

Share the Dignity vending machines

Education Minister Grace Grace said the announcement builds on the success of the existing partnership between the Palaszczuk Government and Share the Dignity.

“We made an election commitment in 2020 to partner with Share the Dignity to provide 120 schools with a free Dignity Vending Machine,” Ms Grace said.

“There was strong demand for the program, with more than 200 schools applying through the initial Expression of Interest.

“The Department of Education will also cover the ongoing costs of maintenance and stocking.”

Founder and Managing Director of Share the Dignity, Rochelle Courtenay said the funding would make a real difference to students’ lives across the state.

“I am elated by the news of the expansion of this program, this announcement ensures no Queensland student will be left behind,” Ms Courtenay said.

“It is not just about the access to period products, it is also about the conversation it starts and the free access to our Period Talk education program, which will help reduce the shame and stigma around periods.

“Queensland is going to be way ahead of the rest of Australia and even the world when it comes to ensuring students are well educated about periods.”