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Education Minister Grace Grace today announced the first three Mackay schools to receive a Dignity Vending Machine, which provides access to free sanitary products at school, delivering on another Palaszczuk Government election commitment.

Minister Grace said the Palaszczuk Government was investing up to $2.5 million in a partnership with the Share the Dignity charity to provide 120 state and non-state schools across Queensland with a Dignity Vending Machine.

“It’s great to be able to share this news with schools during Queensland Women’s Week,” Ms Grace said.

“Access to sanitary products and misplaced stigma around periods should never be barriers to learning.

“We want all students to be confident to attend school every day. Giving students access to free sanitary products can make a real difference, especially for students whose families are doing it tough, have unstable accommodation or are fleeing domestic and family violence.

“This initiative supports Share the Dignity’s aim to distribute period products to women, girls, and anyone who menstruates who needs support.

“I am delighted we had so much interest from schools, with over 200 applying.

“For those schools that missed out this time around, or didn’t get an EOI in, there will be another opportunity to apply for the remaining machines later this year.”

Member for Mackay and Assistant Health Minister Julieanne Gilbert said the partnership with Share the Dignity wasn’t just about access to free sanitary products.

“The partnership also means that all Queensland schools have access to the Period Talk education program, which is designed to educate students in Year 5 to Year 8 about menstruation and the impact of periods,” Ms Gilbert said.

“These three school communities in Mackay and Bowen have shown their support for students and families with this initiative and the Queensland Government is delighted to be a part of this great program.”

Mackay State High School Principal Felicity Roberts said she was delighted her school was one of the three.

“Mackay State High School’s long tradition of success is built on a curriculum model focused on a diversity of student needs alongside a supportive school community,” Ms Roberts said.

“This initiative will further support our students, particularly those who may be vulnerable or experiencing hardship.

“All students should be able to attend school and focus on their goals without having to worry about lack of access to sanitary products.”

Founder of Share the Dignity, Rochelle Courtenay, welcomed the announcement of the successful schools.

“Imagine a world where menstruation is not a barrier to education. I am so proud to see the installation of Dignity Vending Machines in Queensland schools to ensure students can easily access period products when they need them.

“I am also excited to be able to educate boys and girls on menstruation with Period Talk, our menstruation education program, which will help us create long term change and guide us towards a future where period is not a taboo word.”

The first three Mackay region schools selected to receive a machine are Bowen State High School, Mackay State High School, and Pioneer State High School.