Australian charity Share the Dignity has brought it to my attention that the proposed draft list of NDIS supports has seen menstrual products not eligible under NDIS funding. I believe this is an oversight that should be addressed.

Their recent Bloody Big Survey found 78% of menstruators with a disability or chronic condition were unable to afford period products. It also found 35% had to change to a less suitable period product due to cost.

People on NDIS should be eligible to receive funding for menstrual products under NDIS to:

1. Ensure access to period products; and
2. Ensure the affordability of particular period products that suit the individual’s circumstances.

See below a story from a Bloody Big Survey respondent indicating how the NDIS allowed them to manage their period with dignity: “I’ve been fortunate enough to be able to access period underwear through NDIS due to my disabilities and have had a GP give me sample products so I could find a suitable solution. This is another aspect that many do not consider, menstrual products are a necessity, and everyone’s needs are different but so many are in pain, risking health complications etc. because they can’t afford to try other options until they find a suitable product for their unique bodies."

Please consider adjusting this draft list to ensure menstrual products are eligible under NDIS so that everyone is afforded the dignity in life that so many of us take for granted.

Thank you for your consideration.