Council supports free pads, tampons in public places initiative

Published on 03 December 2025

Visitor to Kerang’s Sir John Gorton Library are benefiting from the recent installation of a free pad and tampon vending machine thanks to the State Government’s Free Pads and Tampons in Public Places initiative.

Gannawarra Shire Council is one of various local councils supporting the initiative, which aims to provide people with period care products when and where they need them.

“Council is pleased support this important initiative thanks to the recent installation of a vending machine at the Sir John Gorton Library,” Council Chief Executive Officer, Geoff Rollinson said.

“The initiative is an important program as it highlights that period care products are essential to the health and wellbeing of people, and these items should be accessible whenever and wherever possible.”

As part of the initiative, vending machines are being installed at public libraries and health centres, TAFEs, staffed train stations, sports centres and major cultural institutions in discreet, safe locations.

“Two vending machines have also recently been installed at Kerang District Health and Council looks forward to this important program continuing to be rolled out across rural and regional Victoria,” Mr Rollinson said.

The Sir John Gorton Library vending machine will be accessible during times the library is open.

For more information about the Free Pads and Tampons in Public Places initiative and the location of free pad and tampon vending machines across Victoria, please visit www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/free-pads-and-tampons

TOP: Manager Community Health, Narelle O'Donoghue (left) and Acting Manager Libraries, Tami Leggett with the free pad and tampon vending machine located at Kerang's Sir John Gorton Library.