Dubbo Regional Council has joined the Share the Dignity Council Cares program with a period products dispenser purchased to use at community events and at Macquarie Regional Library Dubbo branch.
The dispenser was coordinated through the Share the Dignity Council Cares program, an initiative designed to bring real change to communities by partnering with Councils across Australia.
Saturday 8 March is International Women's Day, with this year's theme, Give to Gain, in line with this theme, giving to our community and ensuring there is menstrual equity.
"Being able to provide women and girls in our community with free period products is an important step in supporting those in need," Councillor Jen Cowley said.
In Share the Dignity's Big Bloody Survey in 2024, 64 per cent of people stated they have struggled to afford period products due to cost.
"This is such a great initiative for Dubbo Regional Council to utilise and have available for members of the community to access," Councillor Jen Cowley said.
The portable dispenser holds 16 period packs and is refilled by staff as required.
The portable dispenser has been taken to several community events and is located at the Macquarie Regional Library's Dubbo branch when not being used at events for the community to access.
"Over the first two months of use, approximately 60 products have been distributed from the dispenser both at events and whilst at the Dubbo Library," Clr Cowley said.
This is the first dispenser for Council and will act as a pilot program with data on usage to help guide future planning for possible expansion of the program.
