As reported by the Guardian Australia on 14 November 2025, vending machines offering free pads and tampons will begin operating at various public libraries in Victoria, State Library Victoria, Melbourne Museum, the Royal Exhibition Building, as well as hospitals and Tafes, as part of a state government initiative aimed at ending period poverty.
Public library branches chosen as the sites for the pilot phase are as follows:
- Brighton Library
- Sydenham Library
- Reservoir Library
- Newport Library
- Coburg Library
- Diamond Valley Library
- Albert Park Library
- Lalor Library
- Southbank Library – Boyd Community Hub
- North Melbourne Library
- Thomastown Library
These 11 libraries across Melbourne’s suburbs will receive vending machines stocked with products designed to last women and girls several days.
According to Affinity Outdoor, the government’s official supplier, the the pilot phase will help determine the right stock levels and gauge demand at each site.
The free pads and tampons project aims to address period poverty, enhance dignity and normalise menstruation. A 2024 survey conducted by NGO Share the Dignity found that three in five respondents, or 64%, struggled to afford period products.
Public Libraries Victoria looks forward to learning more from libraries participating in the trial.