Pads and tampons are not a luxury. They are essential to health and wellbeing and everyone who needs them should be able to access them.
That’s why we’re proud to announce that the test phase of our nation-leading program to provide free pads and tampons in vending machines has begun.
Free Pads and Tampons - test phase launched
The first vending machines are now available at several sites in Melbourne. Up to 50 vending machines will be installed across metro Melbourne during this test phase.
The test phase is just the first stage of the Free Pads and Tampons program. It will help us understand how we can better meet the needs of all Victorians who use period products ahead of the statewide launch.
We are also working with community groups and health experts to ensure pads and tampons are available to those who need them most.
Bringing Free Pads and Tampons to the whole of Victoria
Throughout 2025, we will install more vending machines at up to 700 locations across Victoria, including at:
- public hospitals
- TAFEs
- courts
- libraries
- staffed train stations
- major cultural institutions like Melbourne Museum and the National Gallery of Victoria
To learn more and find your closest vending machine on our interactive map, visit the Free pads and tampons webpage.