Thursday, August 24, 2023

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Sharing Dignity In Mackay Region Schools

The Share the Dignity vending machine has already been a huge success at Sarina State High School which has had one since 2020

Three schools in the Mackay region will be among more than 100 in Queensland to receive a Dignity Vending Machine, which provides access to free sanitary products at school.

Education Minister Grace Grace said the State Government was providing 120 state and non-state schools across Queensland with a Dignity Vending Machine.

“Access to sanitary products and misplaced stigma around periods should never be barriers to learning,” Ms Grace said.

“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.”

The three local schools to receive the vending machine include Mackay State High School, Bowen State High School and Pioneer State High School.

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."

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