Menstrual equity is more than free access to period products
Ensuring menstrual equity across Australia
Periods should never be a barrier to participation, yet too many menstruators are struggling to afford period products due to cost. That’s why Share the Dignity is proud to introduce Council Cares, an initiative designed to bring real change to communities by partnering with councils across Australia.
Menstrual equity encompasses access to period products, a safe environment to menstruate and education around menstruation.
Why Council Cares matters
Menstrual inequity affects countless Australians, leading to missed workdays, lost educational opportunities, and a diminished quality of life. Share the Dignity’s 2024 Bloody Big Survey revealed:
of people have struggled to afford period products due to cost.*
of people have missed sport due to their period, predominately due to a fear of leaking.
of people weren’t well educated about menstruation before their first period.
*This increases for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, the gender diverse community and those with a disability or chronic condition.
How Council Cares works
We are encouraging councils to take meaningful steps to combat menstrual inequity in their community. Here’s how:
1. Provide free period products
Equip your local libraries, community centres or public spaces with Dignity Vending Machines, Dignity Dispensers, or an alternate method to provide free and dignified access to period products to those in need.
Councils can fund Dignity Vending Machines or Dispensers directly, or run community fundraising to support installation in facilities like libraries.
Research from our Bloody Big Survey shows that providing free period products can allow menstruators to:
- Feel more confident (40%)
- Change period products more often (37%)
- Have less period anxiety (34%)
2. Educate your community about menstruation
Work with us to ensure your constituents are educated about period products by sharing our education hub. By raising awareness and understanding, we can break down barriers and foster an informed, supportive community.
3. Offer a reusable period product rebate
Offer rebates to residents purchasing sustainable period products such as menstrual cups or period underwear. This not only supports individuals to manage their period long-term but promotes environmentally friendly choices.
Share the Dignity has sent every council in Australia their local data from the 2024 Bloody Big Survey. By implementing these actions, councils can set goals for measurable progress by the next Bloody Big Survey in 2027.
I’m a Council
Fill out the form below to register your interest in the Council Cares program.
Ready to join Council Cares? Whether you are a Council already enacting change or a Council that would like more information to work towards making progress, complete the form below.
I’m an individual
Our Bloody Big Survey found 64% of those who menstruate have struggled to afford period products. The impact is devastating, and can lead to shame, missed school or work, and lost income.
But together, we can change this. By asking your local council to support Council Cares, you can help bring dignity to our community through free access to period products, menstrual education, and support for reusable options.
Send an email to your local council today! It only takes a minute, but your voice could spark lasting change. Use our template to show your councillors why menstrual equity matters.
