City of Salisbury Council is helping to tackle period poverty by supplying free organic pads and tampons at eight community centres.
In partnership with local Social Enterprise TABOO, the initiative will improve health equity and restore dignity for people who may otherwise struggle to access these essential products.
Period poverty is defined as a limited access to menstrual products, hygiene facilities, waste management, and education. In the City of Salisbury, 69% of people report difficulty accessing affordable period products — an issue that affects attendance at school, work, sport, and social activities.
“No one should have to miss school, sport or work because they can’t afford period products,” said Mayor, Gillian Aldridge OAM.
“This initiative means people in our community can simply take what they need, when they need it, and get on with their day with confidence and dignity. We’re incredibly proud to be partnering with Taboo to reduce period poverty in our City.”
Free products will be available in bathroom dispensers at:
- Salisbury Community Hub (ground floor)
- Twelve25 Youth Centre
- Bagster Road Community Centre
- Salisbury East Neighbourhood Centre
- Para Hills Community Hub
- The Hive Community Resource Hub
- Morella Community Centre
- Pooraka Farm Community Centre.
Pads and tampons will also be placed in accessible bathrooms to ensure everyone has access. Products can be taken as needed and dispensers will be restocked regularly.
“We know that people who menstruate are missing out on significant opportunities due to the inaccessibility of period products, and the stigma associated with menstruation. That’s why, TABOO’s vision is that wherever there is typically toilet paper, there is also period care available,” said Co-founder and Managing Director of TABOO, Eloise Hall.
“We are so proud to partner with the City of Salisbury with the implementation of period product dispensing units across these sites. We know that this commitment will support people’s capacity to participate in their community with confidence and dignity and hopefully inspire more LGA’s and organisations to follow their leadership in this way.”
More than 1,600 girls and women across the City of Salisbury local government area are expected to benefit from the initiative.
